theSun executive editor Azura Abas wins Best Columnist at the MPI-Petronas Malaysian Journalism Awards 2026 for her impactful columns.
KUALA LUMPUR: theSun executive editor Azura Abas has been named Best Columnist at the Malaysian Press Institute (MPI)-Petronas Malaysian Journalism Awards 2026, further cementing her reputation as one of Malaysia’s most respected voices in journalism.
Azura received the prestigious accolade at the Malaysian Journalists’ Night 2026, which celebrated excellence in journalism and honoured outstanding contributions by media practitioners nationwide.
She took home a trophy and RM10,000 in cash for her winning columns — Your EPF, Makcik’s Spicy Take, ‘Nanti Lah’ Won’t Work for Retirement and Bring Back Dumb-Phone Bliss.
The award ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil and MPI president Datuk Yong Soo Heong, among other dignitaries.
Speaking at the Malaysian Journalists’ Night 2026 and the MPI-Petronas Malaysian Journalism Awards (HKM) 2025, Yong said the record number of entries received this year reflected the Malaysian media industry’s unwavering commitment to quality journalism.
“The overwhelming response to HKM 2025, which recorded the highest number of submissions since its inception, is proof that Malaysian journalists continue to view their profession as a trust bestowed upon them by society,” he said.
Yong said journalism goes beyond merely reporting events, playing a vital role in explaining complex issues, verifying facts, fostering public understanding and driving positive change.
He added that journalism remains a critical pillar in safeguarding truth, integrity and public trust despite rapid advances in digital technology, artificial intelligence (AI) and an increasingly borderless flow of information.
The silver and bronze winners received RM3,000 and RM2,000 respectively.
