BY ABIDGAIL MERTA GANGGANG
Over the last three months, I have been hesitant to step out of my comfort zone because of my fear of taking risks. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, our writing news class had to transition to a virtual classroom environment, which meant that I didn’t have any hands-on experience.
However, my internship with the New Sarawak Tribune has not only provided me with valuable professional experience but has also transformed my perspective on the industry and enhanced my personal growth.
When I first began my internship, I had certain expectations and assumptions about the role and tasks I would be assigned. Initially, I felt overwhelmed by the new environment and unfamiliar responsibilities.
My first event was to attend Datuk Roland Sagah Wee Inn’s presentation of funds to Sarawak Missionary Schools (Anglican, Diocese of Kuching) at RAIA Hotel and Convention Centre Kuching with senior reporter Gabriel Lihan.
Honestly, I was so nervous that my mind went blank and I didn’t know what to do.
But Gabriel briefed me on how reporters usually approach VIPs, and that’s where I learned the reporter’s slang, ‘jolok.’
To me, the New Sarawak Tribune is an excellent start to everything because we encounter new things, new experiences, and new people every day.
Each day brings something new and different, whether it’s a breaking news event, a feature story, an interview with a notable personality, or an in-depth investigative report.
The constant variety keeps the job fresh and engaging, as reporters are continually exposed to different topics and situations.
The most exhilarating moment of the day is waiting for the assigned task for the next day by the chief reporters. Once the schedule is out, the thrill of chasing down a story is incredibly gratifying.
I never thought that I would be involved in this vast field of journalism because my dream was to work with a fashion magazine like Betty Suarez from ‘Ugly Betty.’
However, I realized that I am naturally a curious individual who loves to uncover hidden stories and perspectives. This drives me to interact with those who have experienced challenging or tragic situations.
The most challenging event for me was when Priscilla Tawie and I interviewed Jason Desmond Anthony Brooke, the grandson of the last Rajah Muda Sarawak, because of his thick accent.
From there, I learned that attentive listening will result in fruitful, effective interviews, which helps elicit more detailed and comprehensive responses from sources, resulting in more informative and engaging interviews.
Meanwhile, attending the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting is another story. The fast-paced nature of multiple discussions, debates, and decisions that take place simultaneously is like a sport to me.
Providing accurate and timely reports on a large volume of information in real time can be demanding because it requires reporters to simplify legal terminology and policy jargon language accessible to their audience.
It requires a deep understanding of the subject matter and the ability to convey complex concepts clearly and concisely, rather than simply following the text speech distributed by the August House.
Encountering the editors brings nervousness because they remind me of my mother when I forgot to call her while away in boarding school. Just as forgetting to call my mother can lead to feelings of guilt and the fear of disappointing her, receiving comments from an editor can trigger similar emotions.
However, they provide valuable feedback and offer suggestions for improvement, identify areas that require clarification, and highlight any potential issues or gaps in the story.
Receiving comments from them holds us accountable for the quality and effectiveness of our work, reminding us of our professional obligations and the importance of meeting expectations.
The most satisfying aspect of being a reporter is when the people we interviewed or featured are happy with the way we have portrayed their stories. It is rewarding to know that our work has resonated with them and we have accurately captured their experiences or perspectives.
Positive feedback can serve as a source of encouragement and motivation, reaffirming our skills as storytellers and our ability to bring out the essence of a person or an issue through our writing.
Being an intern in this field can be a rollercoaster of emotions, from the exhilaration of breaking news to the weight of responsibility and the challenges faced along the way. It is a profession that requires resilience, adaptability, and a genuine passion for uncovering the truth and serving the public.
Journalism can be an incredibly rewarding profession, as it offers the opportunity to inform and educate the public, hold people in power accountable, and make a positive impact on society. The ability to shine a light on important issues and give a voice to the voiceless can bring a sense of purpose and fulfilment.
Previously, I didn’t want to get out of my comfort zone. But now, the New Sarawak Tribune is my comfort zone. I am grateful for the invaluable support and guidance provided by the chief reporters, senior reporters, editors, and friends throughout my internship journey. Their mentorship and expertise have played a significant role in shaping my growth as a journalist.
I am forever grateful for their contributions to my growth and for being exceptional role models in the field of journalism. I hope our paths cross again someday.
