KUALA LUMPUR: Staffing issues in Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM), especially the ones affecting those under contract, will be resolved by year end.
Communications and Multimedia Minister Gobind Sigh Deo said discussions are still ongoing with the Public Service Department (PSD) over the status of the national broadcaster’s contract staff.
“We have asked RTM to put forward their suggestions, including those from the affected staff, which will then be forwarded to the PSD.
“We hope to have a solution by the end of the year,” he told reporters after attending an Aidilfitri reception organised by the the RTM Veterans Association (PVRTM), in Angkasapuri here, today.
PVRTM patron, the Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin, graced the occasion.
Prior to this, Gobind had been asked whether the government will consider absorbing RTM contract staff to permanent status as many of them had been with the broadcaster for more than 10 years and were very experienced.
The minister said he was very concerned with the staffing issue as he recognises the effort and work put in by the media workforce to deliver content to the people.
Gobind hopes to see an end to the issue as soon as possible, saying: “I want a situation where dedicated and hardworking staff are justly rewarded.”
In his speech, Gobind encouraged RTM staff to always refer to and utilise the veterans’ experience to improve the network further.
He said this was to ensure RTM does not lose it’s identity as a responsible broadcaster.
“In a challenging global broadcasting environment, experience will play a big role as the basis in keeping pace with technological advances, and this is where PVRTM’s and their experience can be consulted,” he said.
Gobind also hoped PVRTM will continue to contribute to their former employers by motivating current staff through talks and discussions.
“Although times have evolved and creativity is subjective, creativity skills for quality content can still be harnessed from experience,” he added. - Bernama
