KUCHING: Community-based journalism remains an important platform for amplifying underrepresented voices and bringing attention to issues that may otherwise go unnoticed.
TV3 multimedia journalist and TV9 news presenter, Mas Zharif Zhafri Aziz Desa, said journalists play a crucial role in connecting communities with policymakers through people-centred reporting that reflects real experiences and concerns.
He said stories rooted in everyday life often create greater public awareness and encourage meaningful engagement between communities and institutions.
“Community reporting has its own unique spirit. When we tell stories about ordinary people and issues that are close to society, those reports create a lasting impact and strengthen the relationship between communities and media organisations,” he said.
He said this when met during the Community Content Production Training workshop organised by Sarawak Tribune in collaboration with the Malaysian Press Institute (MPI).
Held at hotel here on Wednesday, the one-day workshop brought together 15 Sarawak Tribune journalists.
He added that even seemingly simple stories such as agriculture, fisheries or local livelihoods, carry rich cultural knowledge and practical value.
Such stories, he said, attracts interest not only within local communities but also among audiences across Malaysia and internationally because they offer authentic perspectives on everyday life.
On ethical considerations in community journalism, Zharif said reporters must uphold values such as sensitivity, honesty, curiosity and empathy when covering local issues.
He added that curiosity encourages journalists to explore untold stories, local traditions and cultural heritage that might otherwise remain undocumented, while empathy helps them better understand the challenges faced by communities.
Summing up the workshop, he expressed hope that journalists would strengthen their ability to produce high-quality community reports capable of creating an impact not only in Sarawak but throughout Malaysia and beyond.
He said journalists have an important responsibility to document and share local stories, cultures and traditions so that wider audiences can better understand and appreciate the diversity of communities across the country.
“Community reporting should not be viewed as secondary to current affairs reporting. These are the stories that preserve local identities, promote understanding and remain close to the hearts of the people,” he said.
