KUCHING: Seven Sarawak media practitioners were honoured for their exemplary contributions at the ‘Majlis Kemuncak Hari Wartawan Nasional’ (Hawana) 2024 here today.
They were awarded the Sarawak Premier Special Appreciation Award.
Among the notable recipients was New Sarawak Tribune Associate Editor M. Rajah.
Rajah expressed profound gratitude upon receiving the accolade, attributing his success to the unwavering support of his colleagues and mentors.
“I thank my colleagues and my bosses — both past and present, including former The Star deputy chairman Tan Sri Clement Hii for his confidence in me as a journalist; and my present boss, Datuk Jeniri Amir, for giving me all the encouragement to continue my passion for journalism.
“And most importantly, I thank my family for giving me all the support, without whose backing I would not be where I am now. They are the ones who are giving me the reason to continue my journalistic passion.
“I was supposed to be a lawyer but I guess the Almighty had better things for me as a newsman. I always believe that to excel in whatever field one is in, one has to give one’s very best and be committed; there are no two ways about it.
“Once again I wish to extend my thanks to all of them. And I dedicate this award to them,” said Rajah.
Born on December 14, 1958, Rajah boasts a 45-year career in journalism, during which he also held senior roles in both national and Sarawak-based publications, as well as news portals.
A certified ‘Train The Trainer’ instructor, Rajah lives by the motto, “Once a journalist, always a journalist.”
Other honorees included photographer Zulazhar Sheblee from Star Media Group; former RTM Sarawak Chief Reporter Alice Wee Siok Lian; senior journalist Sulok Tawie, who currently writes for the Malay Mail; former executive editor of Utusan Sarawak / Mingguan Sarawak William Cornelius Chan Khun Neng; the retired Group General Manager cum Managing Editor of United Borneo Press Group Johnny Loh Kee Kong; and Editorial Advisor of Utusan Sarawak and former Associate Editor of Berita Harian Kadir Dikoh.
The awards not only celebrated their achievements but also highlighted the vital role of journalists in shaping public discourse and fostering a well-informed society.
The recognition of these seven media practitioners serves as an inspiration for upcoming journalists and reaffirms the importance of dedication and integrity in the profession.
