Independent news portal Malaysiakini has once again been recognised as one of the top brands in Malaysia at the 5th Putra Brand Awards held in Bandar Utama tonight.
The portal, due to celebrate its 15th anniversary this year, won the bronze award in the Media and Networks category.
It won the same award in the inaugural Putra Brand Awards in 2010, under the same category.
Jeannie Lim, New Straits Times Press (NSTP) advertising general manager, handed over the award to Malaysiakini ’s CEO Premesh Chandran.
Unlike many other media awards, the Putra Brand Awards is given based on a consumer research polling system involving 6,000 people.
The other media outlets that won awards in the Media and Entertainment category include Astro (gold), The Star (silver), Hitz.fm (bronze), and NTV7 (bronze).
The award comes as Malaysiakini is preparing to shift its operations to a new office in Petaling Jaya, which the company has purchased partly thanks to contributions by the general public, readers, and corporate sponsors.
"This is a crucial juncture in Malaysiakini ’s 15 year history and and I am delighted that we have been given this recognition again.
"A brand is beyond a product. It’s the engagement between the product and the organisation behind it, with its consumers. It reflects a product meeting the consumers’ vision, values and identity.
"This award is not just about Malaysiakini , but the people’s desire for independent media, a voice speaking up for public concerns," Premesh said.
"Building a brand is not an easy task - and the award truly goes to everyone who are, and have been part of Malaysiakini over the years.
"Although our financial resources have been limited, the talents at Malaysiakini have been exceptional and have built something great together.
"A product can be copied, but the brand is unique. And Malaysiakini will strive to ensure we continue solidifying the brand in the coming times."
The award was organised by the Associaton of Accredited Advertising Agents Malaysia (4As), and has awards for wide ranging 18 categories including retail and communications.
