Photographers Must Have Ability To Tell Compelling Story- Sabah CM

KOTA KINABALU (Malaysia), Feb 27 (Bernama) -- Chief Minister Musa Aman wants photographers to expand their prowess beyond taking photographs of cultural experiences and landscapes, and tell a compelling story about events and happenings in the state. Musa said strong news photographs had the potential to become historical records for people to appreciate and learn from. In his speech at the opening of the World Press Photo Exhibition at 1Borneo Hypermall, here, Monday, Musa said the state government welcomed such events in the state. His text of speech was read by Deputy Chief Minister Dr Yee Moh Chai. Musa also expressed the hope the next World Press Photo Exhibition would see photographic expression by Malaysians, especially those from Sabah, earning a place as part of the tour. He said the state has many stories to share and by showcasing them at the global scale, the world would be able to learn about the people of Sabah. Sabah is located in East Malaysia region. Musa also thanked and congratulated the organiser of the exhibition, TNT Express Malaysia and the Embassy of the Netherlands for bringing the exhibition to Sabah. "I hope to see more partnerships of this nature in the future. The photographs on display promise to leave a lasting impression, and tell powerful stories," he added. Meanwhile, the Netherlands ambassador to Malaysia, Paul Bekkers said in his welcoming address that the exhibition demonstrates the importance of press photographers in creating awareness about global issues such as climate change, war and famine. The exhibition, from today until March 8, is also supported by the Sabah Tourism Board as well as the state's Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry. The World Press Photo Exhibition, the world's largest and most anticipated photo exhibition, displays a total of 117 photographs by 55 photographers from 23 countries. After Sabah, the exhibition will move to Penang Town Hall, from March 11 to 19. The travelling exhibition covers 100 cities in 45 countries. -- BERNAMA