Information Minister Shabery Cheek today reminded the media to be fast and accurate in their reporting, especially on tragedies, for the good of all quarters.

shabery cheek at world development information day 301008 03 He said reports made "hurriedly, that is fast but not accurate, can lead to bad consequences."

Shabery, who is also deputy chairman of the National Disaster and Relief Management Committee, however expressed satisfaction on media reports made "without any speculation" on the Bukit Antarabangsa landslide that struck early Saturday morning at Taman Bukit Mewah and Taman Bukit Utama.

He also called for more graphic reports to give a clearer picture of the tragedy.

Speaking to reporters at the scene today, Shabery said the media did not only give reports of the tragedy but also of the army's efforts to build a bridge to provide safe passage for residents who had to evacuate but were cut-off due to the only exit route collapsing.

Proud of the support

He said this showed that the military was not only capable of defending the country but also had various other expertise, including building bridges fast and efficiently.

Shabery, who also performed Aidiladha prayers at the Addiniah surau together with local residents and search and rescue (SAR) personnel this morning, said he was proud of the support from various quarters to help victims, including providing food and setting up a free food stall.

"Various forms of support, including prayers, by the people gives will power and hope to victims to face the tragedy in a calmer manner," he was quoted as saying by Bernama.

He was also pleased with the RTM Disaster Unit that was set up recently in their coverage where they made 26 breaking news reports since Saturday.

Shabery said the unit was actually to be launched on Jan 1 but was capable of doing their job without considering the time, tiredness and situation on the disaster including floods on the East Coast.