On June 13, the first 2026 meeting of the FPCCI Central Standing Committee on Media & Broadcasting was held at the FPCCI Capital Office in Islamabad, chaired by Faisal Zahid Malik, Chairman and CEO of Pakistan Observer. As per a press release, the meeting primarily addressed crisis management issues in the media sector, focusing on advertising challenges and delayed financial recoveries, and included discussions concerning the federal budget for 2026-27.

The session commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by opening remarks by Malik, who expressed gratitude to committee members from Karachi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Bahawalpur, and Islamabad for their presence. Some members from Karachi participated via Zoom.

Malik reminisced about his extensive experience with Karachi’s top business community and his long standing service in journalism. He relayed advice from the late founder of Pakistan Observer, Zahid Malik (SI, HI), on the importance of fostering robust relationships between the media and business sectors to establish a direct and productive connection.

Atif Ikram Sheikh, President of FPCCI, underscored the significant role of media in economic development and its direct relationship with the business community. He highlighted the media’s role in job creation, portraying a soft image of Pakistan globally, and transitioning into digital platforms. Sheikh advocated for a strengthened partnership between the media and FPCCI, which he believed would positively impact Pakistan’s progress. He suggested monthly meetings to address industry issues more effectively.

Senator Dr. Sarmad Ali, President of the All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) and Managing Director of Jang Media Group, discussed the budget and other sectors crucial for the general public. Tariq Khan Jadoon, Vice President of FPCCI, commended Malik’s vision and his strong ties with the business community, stressing the need to extensively support entrepreneurs and startups.

Contributions also came from other committee members, including Shahab Zubairi, Vice President of APNS and CEO of Aaj TV, who shared insights into the crises facing the media industry. Rafay Khan Niazi from Roze News, Islamabad, and Syed Muhammad Munir Jilani from Daily Paigham, also expressed their perspectives.

Adnan Arif, a committee member, proposed the regular organisation of Round Table Conferences to further enhance the relationship between the media and FPCCI.