Media urged to be sensitive on negativity

By MATTHEW VARI

Sunday, January 17, 2016 (Sunday Chronicle, PNG)

FACING a media storm in his first engagements as the country’s new minister for tourism, arts and culture- Justin Tkatchenko has urged the media to be more sensitive in its reporting of national issues that could jeopardise the country’s efforts to boost the tourism sector.

Following the ambush and rape of an American woman and her British boyfriend along the Kokoda Track, which he condemned- Mr Tkatchenko reminded the media of the consequences of effects of a much more connected world dominated by social networks and the internet.

“Media you play a very important role as well. A huge role, remember when you report about the negativity of our country it goes viral all over the place.”

“Yes we have to report it but we have to balance it as well. Media when it comes to promoting our country- you are a key to the door of success or downfall of our country as well.”

His comments were also supported by the Minister for National Planning and Monitoring Charles Abel.

“I appeal to our media to be sensitive about these things. Every country has issues and incidents and we just have to be a little sensitive on how we report it,” Abel said.

“Knowing how our country is struggling to overcome some of these perception issues in the marketplace.”