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LABUAN: The Info on Wheels (IOW) initiative of the Malaysian Information Department (JaPen) assists in moulding its officials into more sociable and constantly informed individuals.

Rodey Roy Juhalin, an assistant official at the Labuan JaPen, recalled that while he was recruited there during the Covid-19 pandemic, he was given the responsibility of distributing IOW announcements about critical information in line with the country’s current situation to all areas of Labuan Island.

“Before heading out on duty, we had a briefing on the information that must be shared with the community in order for us to better grasp the problem and make adjustments to the strategy we wish to take.

“After gaining more clarity, we’ll proceed to the localities and start disseminating using loudspeakers and, if required, handing out related leaflets,” he said. After being involved with IOW for a few months, Rodey said he realised it was more than just making announcements over the speakers and that it was one of the best ways for JaPen officials to engage with the community.

“Although initially I am a little anxious, as we work in the field, I start to feel comfortable interacting with the community and sharing a variety of information that is relevant to them. Over time, we will get more at ease when approached by the community at various levels.

“At times, we only talk to the villagers. That, in my opinion, is also helpful in fostering a strong bond between JaPen and the neighbourhood, which can make it easier to carry out future community-based events, he added.

Rodey distributing JaPen leaflets to vendors (Photo Source: Warta Oriental) 

IOW, according to Labuan JaPen Information Assistant Officer Roseemyzal Nordin, is JaPen’s two-pronged strategy for disseminating information and evaluating public sentiment.

“We reach out to the community most effectively through the IOW platform because JaPen’s responsibilities include not only information dissemination but also listening to public concerns and complaints.

In addition, queries that the community has after hearing about our announcement have made it easier for us to continue providing and receiving face-to-face input, in addition to being able to refer any further problems to the appropriate organisations, he said.

Muhammad Nazli, a 43-year-old civil servant, feels that the community will benefit from the JaPen’s efforts since such open communication may help people comprehend current problems and the government’s current course of action.

Live announcements can draw attention to the information being delivered and provide immediate knowledge of a significant announcement, which can undoubtedly improve the rapport between JaPen and the general audience.

IOW should continue, he said, “so that the neighbourhood is always aware that JaPen is nearby and with the people.”

Nurul Ashikin Suhaili, a 32-year-old civil servant, said IOW JaPen, provides prompt and direct notification to the community, particularly in the focal areas and rural areas.

“IOW allows the people of Labuan get the most up-to-date, accurate information and JaPen as a government representative can be approachable and listen directly to input from the public, thus minimising the people’s uncertainty about a problem.

She said, “I hope IOW will continue in the future and develop into a quick-moving communication medium that is valuable to the people of Labuan.