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Viewpoint: Local journalism plays vital role in today’s world

"As the Peak marks 30 years of serving the qathet region, we reflect on how much has changed, and how much has stayed the same."
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In an age where TikTok faces bans over privacy concerns and/or a forced sale, tech giants such as Apple quietly update policies to access our personal data, and Meta/Facebook removes fact-checking from its platforms, the importance of trusted local news has never been more critical.

Journalism is the backbone of accountability in our society, ensuring that corporations, local governments and influential organizations are held responsible for their actions.

The role of a journalist is multifaceted and demanding. They ask the hard questions, spend hours conducting interviews, and attend council meetings to report on matters most of us cannot personally witness. Their work ensures transparency in spaces that shape our daily lives. Yet, this vital work cannot be sustained in isolation; it requires the active involvement of the community.

At the Peak, we are a small but dedicated team committed to uncovering and sharing the stories that matter most to you. While we strive to be everywhere and see everything, the truth is, we can’t do it alone. We rely on our community to help guide us. If there’s an issue or event you feel deserves attention, we urge you to reach out with kindness and let us know. Together, we can ensure no story worth telling goes unnoticed.

As the Peak marks 30 years of serving the qathet region, we reflect on how much has changed, and how much has stayed the same. Like many small businesses, the COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges, but it also reignited our passion and resilience. We remain committed to providing stories that respect the journalistic standards we hold dear.

Speculation and gossip may spark conversations, but they are not the foundation of responsible journalism. We are dedicated to reporting the facts and avoiding the spread of misinformation. While it may take time to uncover the full truth, our priority is accuracy over haste.

Local journalism thrives when the community it serves values and supports it. By working together—sharing tips, engaging with stories and recognizing the efforts of journalists—we can build a stronger, more informed community for years to come.

Thank you for 30 incredible years. We look forward to continuing this journey with you.

Kelly Keil has been publisher of the Peak since 2018.

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