MBI Strengthens Ties with Perak Media Fraternity to Foster a Transparent and Engaged Ipoh

In a move to reinforce collaboration with journalists, the Ipoh City Council (MBI) hosted the MBI Media Night 2025 at Ipoh Convention Centre on 17th December 2025.

This marked the first media night organised by the council since Y.Bhg. Tuan Zamakhshari bin Hanipah assumed office as Mayor of Ipoh on 16th April 2025, signalling a new chapter in MBI’s relationship with the media fraternity.

arrival of Ipoh Mayor Y.Bhg. Tuan Zamakhshari bin Hanipah (in brown)

The event drew a distinguished audience, including Council Secretary Tuan Haji Ahmad Munir bin Ishak; Chief WHIP of MBI Council Members, Y.Bhg. Cllr. Dato’ Haji Mazlan bin Abd. Rahman & Cllr. Tuan Wong Kar Keat; Chairman of Persatuan Pengamal Media Perak (Perak Media Practitioners Association) Tuan Sayed Mohd Hesham Syed Idris, as well as City Councillors, heads of departments, and media bureau chiefs.

opening speech by Ipoh Mayor Y.Bhg. Tuan Zamakhshari bin Hanipah

Platform for Partnership and Transparency

The Media Night was designed not merely as a celebration of media contributions but as a strategic platform to strengthen mutual understanding and foster bilateral cooperation. Mayor Zamakhshari highlighted the importance of a professional and cordial relationship between MBI and media practitioners, noting that it allows city issues to be communicated accurately, responsibly, and clearly to the public.

He emphasised that while the council operates within regulatory frameworks and administrative policies, journalists uphold ethical standards prioritising accuracy, balance, and integrity. “Freedom of expression must be exercised with wisdom and responsibility, particularly in a diverse society like Malaysia, to prevent misunderstandings or tension,” he added.

Recognising Media’s Role in Civic Engagement

Mayor Zamakhshari expressed his gratitude to media members for their coverage of city affairs. He encouraged reporting that is fact-based and balanced rather than purely laudatory, believing that responsible journalism helps MBI clarify policies, highlight initiatives, and engage residents constructively.

He explained that ethical journalism benefits not only the city council but also residents, NGOs and corporate social responsibility partners, ensuring that all stakeholders contributing to Ipoh’s development are recognised appropriately.

Plans for Continued Media Engagement in 2026

Looking ahead, the Mayor announced a series of initiatives to deepen interaction with media friends in the coming year. These include Hi-Tea with Media Bureau Chiefs, Friendly Bowling Matches, Media Visits, and MBI Media Night 2026.

“These programmes are intended to strengthen cooperation, promote professional dialogue, and build closer relationships between MBI and media practitioners, ultimately contributing to a prosperous, livable, and competitive Ipoh City,” Mayor Zamakhshari remarked.

Embracing Digital Media with Radio TV Bandar Raya Ipoh

MBI has also advanced its digital outreach through Radio MBI, a platform launched in 2016 as part of the Local Authority Transformation Plan. Broadcasting globally via the internet, Radio MBI features council staff sharing city updates, announcements, and community programmes.

Complementing this is TV Online MBI, a visual platform used extensively during the COVID-19 pandemic for live broadcasts and content sharing. Both platforms are now united under Radio TV Bandar Raya Ipoh (RTBI), offering citizens a unified source for timely and accessible city information.

The RTBI initiative is supported by the RadioTV BI portal and the Radio MBI mobile app, providing user-friendly access for residents and ensuring important updates reach the community efficiently. The portal and mobile application were launched during the media night event. Visit https://radiotv.mbi.gov.my/ for further information.

journalist Dollah poses with Rahmad Mega (R)

Video playlist (above): Rahmad Mega @ MBI Media Night 2025

“Klasik”, Nostalgia, Kampung-Feel: A Night of Music and Memories

The theme of the evening embraced Malay classics, nostalgia, and a kampung-feel, creating a warm and familiar atmosphere that brought the community together. Entertainment was provided by Gema Warisan Budaya MBI, alongside guest artistes, including Rahmad Mega, who electrified the audience with his high-energy performance.

Ipoh Mayor Y.Bhg. Tuan Zamakhshari and his team pose with Rahmad Mega

a journalist from Bernama sings a Malay classic song

Journalists themselves took to the stage, belting out Malay classics and revealing a playful, talented side rarely seen in their daily reporting. Even Mayor Zamakhshari joined in the festivities, singing along and jogeting to the music, much to the delight of the audience. The lively performances highlighted the friendly and collaborative spirit between MBI and the media.

Y.Bhg. Tuan Zamakhshari poses for a photo with his Ipoh City Council colleagues

Y.Bhg. Tuan Zamakhshari poses for another photo

MBI Media Night 2025, the first under Mayor Zamakhshari’s tenure, was more than an evening of appreciation. It demonstrated the council’s commitment to collaboration, transparency, and civic engagement. By combining personal interaction with innovative digital platforms like RTBI, MBI ensures that Ipoh citizens are well-informed and that journalists remain valued partners in the city’s ongoing growth and development.