Bahrain leadership backs watchdog journalism for national progress
Bahrain's press received a powerful double endorsement yesterday as His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, underlined its role as a cornerstone of national development, and singled out investigative journalism as a vital pillar of national transparency.
Receiving the Board of the Bahrain Journalists Association (BJA) at Al Safriya Palace, HM the King reaffirmed Bahrain's commitment to freedom of opinion and expression, calling them essential to journalism's growth and national prosperity.
His Majesty praised Bahrain's journalists for promoting unity, cultural awareness, and development, and highlighted their professionalism in defending national interests. HM the King also noted the Kingdom's longstanding journalistic tradition, rooted in Bahrain's broader contributions to education, science, and civilisation.
His Majesty expressed pride in the achievements of Bahrain's youth and extended appreciation to all journalists for their service to the nation.
Press as watchdog
Earlier yesterday, HRH Prince Salman honoured media professionals at the ninth edition of the Prime Minister's Award for Journalism.
Addressing the ceremony, HRH described Bahrain's media as a core pillar of progress and commended journalists for their integrity and professionalism.
HRH the Crown Prince placed particular emphasis on the press's investigative and oversight roles, saying such work supports national transparency and accountability.
'The press is not just a messenger, but a partner in the Kingdom's development,' HRH said.
The Best Investigative Journalism Award went to Ali Al Fardan of Al Bilad Press, a recognition HRH noted as emblematic of Bahrain's growing support for deep-dive reporting that challenges, questions, and informs.
Recognising excellence
Issa Al Shaiji, Editor-in-Chief of Al Ayam, received the 2025 Journalism Personality Award. Other awards recognised Dr Abdulla Ahmed Al-Madani for Best Column, Mohammed Qasim Al-Saei for Best Interview, and Amal Al Aradi for her work on Al Bilad's women's page.
Visual journalism was also acknowledged with prizes for photography, infographics, and digital content.
Students from Gulf University were recognised with the Best University Student Journalism Project Award for their cultural series 'Turathna/Our Heritage'.
H.E. Dr Ramzan bin Abdullah Al-Noaimi, Minister of Information, said the royal support given to the press strengthens its credibility and its role in shaping national consciousness.
H.E. noted the timing of the awards, coinciding with the Bahrain Journalists Association's silver jubilee, makes this year's recognition especially meaningful. The event concluded with a collective call to uphold journalistic integrity and continue strengthening the Kingdom's media landscape.
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