Mark and Comm reaffirms commitment to strengthen media industry in talks with Minister

Mark and Comm Managing Director Thanzyl Thajudeen (left) presents report to Media and Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa

A strong and independent media industry is essential for a thriving democracy and an informed public. Mark and Comm has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Sri Lanka’s media landscape.

On 20 February, its managing director, Thanzyl Thajudeen, met with the Media and Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, presenting a comprehensive report on the state of journalism in Sri Lanka and briefly discussing some key opportunities.

The trilingual report reflects the insights and concerns of media professionals across various mediums in all three languages, highlighting opportunities to foster a more resilient and progressive industry.

Mark and Comm has previously engaged with the Ministry and other key stakeholders to drive industry-wide improvements. These discussions have focused on capacity building, professional development, and sustainable solutions that empower journalists and media organisations to thrive, including public relations and communications awareness among public-sector professionals.

A core priority highlighted in the report is the need for greater financial stability within media organisations. Ensuring fair wages, timely payments, and sustainable revenue models will contribute to a more secure and motivated workforce. Additionally, the report underscores the importance of structured career growth and promotional opportunities, allowing journalists to advance in their profession with adequate mentorship and skills development.

Ethical journalism and responsible reporting are also central to shaping a more credible media landscape. Mark and Comm recognises the need for stronger industry regulations that uphold press freedom while reinforcing ethical standards. By advocating for clearer guidelines on fact-checking, misinformation prevention, and transparent reporting, the organisation aims to elevate public trust in Sri Lankan journalism.

Journalist safety and mental wellness remain key concerns, with an increasing need for structured support systems. Mark and Comm’s report highlight the importance of providing mental health resources, stress management initiatives, and balanced work environments to safeguard the well-being of media professionals. Encouragingly, a growing number of journalists have sought training and upskilling opportunities, particularly in digital and multimedia journalism, investigative reporting, media ethics, and crisis coverage. This trend presents a strong opportunity to strengthen industry capabilities and future-proof Sri Lanka’s media landscape.

Public perception of journalism remains largely positive, with a significant portion of respondents still viewing it as a respected profession. This reinforces the potential for rebuilding credibility through improved ethical standards, enhanced storytelling techniques, and greater audience engagement. Additionally, the increasing demand for training in digital media indicates an evolving industry with new opportunities for journalists and media organisations to expand their reach and influence.

Education and continuous learning remain fundamental to industry progress. Strengthening media education, both at institutional and professional levels, will create more informed and adaptable journalists. The report encourages investment in specialised training programs and collaborative learning platforms to ensure that Sri Lanka’s media professionals remain at the forefront of industry advancements.

Looking ahead, Mark and Comm said it remains committed to fostering an environment where journalism can flourish with credibility, stability, and innovation. With broad agreement on the need for improved regulations, ethical reporting, and protections for journalists, there is significant potential for industry-wide improvements.