The media plays an invaluable role in shaping the nation, says Nga Kor Ming (pic).

In recognising its contribution to nation-building, the Housing and Local Government Minister said the media has the ability to construct public opinion and enhance awareness on current issues.

“In this context, the media also promotes unity and patriotism while contributing to economic and social development,” he said in his speech at the ministry’s media excellence awards yesterday.

Nga said the awards recognise the media’s role and contributions in delivering information that aids nation-building.

At the event, Star Media Group (SMG) bagged two top awards across eight categories.

Under the Online Video Award category, The Star’s executive producer Ian Lau Yan Fun, senior news producer Charanjeet Kaur, senior chief video editor Elaine Cheng, senior video editor Carl Lew Cheng Tek and senior chief videographer Juliana Fauzi took first prize.

They emerged as the top winner for their video KL Fire and Rescue Department all set to tackle floods with 21 divers on standby.

In the Photojournalism category, The Star’s Mohammad Azman Abdul Ghani was third for his piece titled Smokey End.

First prize winners receive a RM3,000 cash prize while second and third place winners take home RM2,000 and RM1,000 respectively, along with trophies and certificates of appreciation.