By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Dec 15: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has announced plans to send local journalists to an executive training programme at Cambridge University, United Kingdom, as part of the Sarawak government’s initiative to elevate journalism standards to an international level.
Speaking at the 36th Kenyalang Journalism Awards (KJA) 2024 organised by the Kuching Division Journalists Association (KDJA) at the Riverside Majestic Hotel last night (Dec 14), Abang Johari highlighted the importance of equipping journalists with the knowledge and skills needed to produce high-quality, globally relevant reporting.
“It’s a one-month executive programme where you can engage with international executives, deliberate on global issues, and ensure your reports meet global standards,” he said.
To ensure fairness in candidate selection, a panel comprising representatives from the journalist association, the government, and the private sector will be established. The Sarawak government will fully sponsor the programme.
“We will send you (journalists) for the training, so the selection must be made by your side (journalistic association).
“In one panel, I think we will send two people per year to train at Cambridge University, along with our senior government officers attending the programme.
“This is because the executive programme is not exclusively for journalists; it also covers subjects like economics, social issues, and emerging dimensions. This will help enhance your perspectives and improve the overall quality of our journalists,” he added. – DayakDaily
