Communication channel vital

IT is now confirmed that under the Covid-19 State of Emergency regulation, only the prime minister and the SOE Controller are the authorised persons to release information to the public.
Health Minister Jelta Wong is the official government spokesperson on the Government response to the coronavirus or Covid-19 pandemic.
This is the time for the commander to have those who disseminate false information during this period to be arrested and charged accordingly.
We with controller David Manning that it is critical and necessary that the established protocols with regard to the release of information are observed so that the correct information is being disseminated to the people of PNG.
We have said this and will continue to stress on it that a lot of our people who don’t have much education are gullible to whatever information is spread and that is how panic will start.
While the Government has stepped its efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus, it is important for everyone to get facts from trusted sources.
In times of crisis, accurate information is important if we are to maintain order and for people to remain calm.
When there is no information flowing, people will be susceptible to rumors and that does not help anyone.
What our people need right now is accurate, consistent and regular information.
All information should be tailored to the specific situation which can then increase the efficiency of information dissemination and provide people with more time and more accurate information to be informed and make better decisions.
In the modern era the number of communication channels has rapidly increased.
Information technology development has made the transfer of information easy and fast in all aspects of human activity.
And let’s use that to promote content around basic infection prevention practices, symptoms of Covid-19 and when to seek health care.
Let’s share facts and accurate information about the coronavirus.
The way we communicate can affect the attitude of others.
In an age where information is mass produced and accessible at the touch of a button what the public really must have is relevant knowledge.
This information should be available to everyone for them to make sound and educated decisions.
It is for everyone’s benefit that these measures are being put in place – from social distances to getting into crowded areas and the simplest reminder of personal hygiene.
Where mainstream newspapers, radio and television are inhibited by situations such as geographical location or censorship and commercial considerations, the social media could and should be the available option.
The intensive flow of information ensures information needed for good decision-making.
This indicates the importance of accessing the right information at the right time.
And so in the coming days, let’s all pay attention to what the Government has announced to take effect and abide by it.
The media’s job in maintaining balance between truth and public perception and to always remain just and objective.
But with social media, it is just the click of a button, news about murder, rape, car theft and many more in the country are uploaded, even if it just rumours.
In times like this, everyone should take on the responsibility of telling the truth about public issues.
And all forms of media must be used correctly.