“Ethics is the main pillar of journalism because adherence to it not only makes someone a great journalist but also ensures the sustainability of a media organization.’ – Communications Minister, Fahmi Fadzil
HAWANA 2025
EVERY year on May 29, journalists across Malaysia pause – just for a while – to reflect on the profession we chose or as some would say, the profession that chose us.
It’s Hari Wartawan Nasional, or HAWANA – Malaysia’s National Journalism Day.
While some may still not know such a day exists, for many of us in the media world, it’s an important reminder: of our responsibilities, our struggles, and the stories that still need telling.
I remember the first time I heard the word “HAWANA”. It sounded grand. National Journalism Day?
At the time, I was still finding my feet – juggling daily assignments, racing deadlines, and learning to trust my instincts. But as the years passed, the meaning behind this day deepened.
Because HAWANA isn’t just about us journalists; it’s also about the people whose stories we carry.
There’s a quiet kind of dignity in journalism. It’s not a job that comes with applause or prestige. You don’t do it for the pay (let’s be honest), or the perks.
You do it because you believe someone needs to bear witness – to injustice, to courage, to truth. That someone needs to ask the uncomfortable questions, and sometimes, sit in the discomfort that follows.
We don’t always get it right. But when we do, it’s because we’re driven by something bigger than ourselves – public interest.
Being a journalist today is not easy. Some would argue it’s harder now than ever before.
We’re working in an era where news competes with noise. Where misinformation spreads faster than facts. Where the line between journalism and content creation sometimes blurs.
And where trust in media – not just in Malaysia, but globally – is constantly being tested.
The responsibility to get it right, to tell stories ethically and with integrity, has never been heavier.
There are names many people won’t know – reporters who’ve quietly done the work for decades, camera crews who’ve captured history in the making, and sub-editors who polish our words behind the scenes.
HAWANA is also for them.
HAWANA is a reminder that every story has a cost – time, energy, and sometimes even safety.
And while we often focus on the headlines, it’s the people behind the scenes who deserve just as much recognition.
Of course, HAWANA must also be forward-looking.
Artificial intelligence, social media algorithms, and the explosion of short-form content are changing the way news is gathered and consumed.
There’s no denying that we need to adapt. But we also need to ask – adapt to what, and at what cost? Do we sacrifice depth for virality? Do we lose nuance in the chase for numbers?
The answers aren’t simple. But what’s clear is that digital tools should strengthen journalism, not dilute it.
If we lose the heart – the human connection – then we’ve lost the essence of our craft. More than ever, we need to rebuild trust – not just with readers, but with ourselves.
That means being transparent about our processes, accountable for our mistakes, and committed to telling stories that reflect the diversity and complexity of Malaysian society.
The media must hold power to account. But we must also hold ourselves to a higher standard.
And the public? They, too, have a role. To ask questions, to seek clarity, to support quality journalism, and to be mindful of what they share online.
So, on this HAWANA, I think of the young journalist still out on assignment at 10 pm, filing her or his story despite the exhaustion of a long day.
I think of the senior reporter who still shows up, notebook in hand, because he believes in the power of words.
I think of the teams – from state media to community radio – who continue to tell Sarawak’s stories, even when no one’s watching.
To all of them: thank you.
And to the readers – may you never forget the value of a free, responsible, and ethical press. Because journalism is not just what we do, it’s who we are.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune. The writer can be reached at sarahhafizahchandra@gmail.com.
