James Kon
The United States (US) Embassy in Brunei Darussalam marked World Press Freedom Day with the screening of a public broadcasting service documentary titled Joseph Pulitzer: Voice of the People for the media at the Radisson Hotel on Saturday.
The local media was inspired by the story of Joseph Pulitzer, the pioneering American newspaper owner who redefined American journalism.
The documentary chronicles the life of Pulitzer, who more than a century ago, warned of the dangers of fake news.
Pulitzer was also remembered for his heroic battles in revealing the truth through investigative journalism and publishing stories on the sufferings of the common people.
US Ambassador-Designate to Brunei Darussalam Caryn McClelland said, “The US government supports a free and independent press because of the vital role it plays in our democracy. Our press connects citizens to the information they need to be able to advocate for themselves, make informed decisions and hold government officials accountable. The US is committed to working in partnership with the media, the private sector, non governmental organisations and other concerned governments to support access to information.”
On the screening, she said, “The film is particularly appropriate to show seeing that we commemorated World Press Freedom Day on May 3. That day serves as a reminder of the need to respect freedom, celebrate the fundamental role of the press in informing the public, and paying tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in pursuit of the truth – including Palestinian American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh who was killed this month while covering the Israeli Palestinian conflict.”
