DEWAN Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) is embarking on an ambitious journey to bridge the gap between literary editing and the fast-paced media world through its innovative Attachment Training Programme (PLS).
This initiative aims to equip its staff with real-world media experience, enhancing their writing and editing skills to adapt to the evolving communication landscape in today’s digital age.
Recognising the importance of adapting to the rapid changes in media, DBP is committed to providing its employees with fresh perspectives and hands-on experiences that can significantly elevate their professional development.
Nurarifah Fatema Khairulsani, affectionately known as Effa, the Assistant Editor of DBP’s Tunas Cipta magazine, is at the forefront of this transformative initiative as she has taken on the responsibility of pioneering this month-long programme.
Drawing on invaluable insights from her placement at Suara Sarawak, she aims to provide future participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the competitive media environment.
According to Effa, who originally hails from Johore but spent her formative years in Selangor, this programme is a groundbreaking effort for DBP staff.
It has been specifically designed to provide employees with new learning opportunities that enhance their professional skills while offering a fresh experience that has not been previously available within the organisation.
“This programme marks the first time we’ve organised an initiative like this for DBP staff, aiming to equip them with essential skills that are increasingly important in today’s media landscape,” she explained.
Effa noted that DBP has traditionally conducted courses that last no more than two weeks, but this programme represents a significant shift in approach.
“This is the first time DBP has sent staff to a different company for an extended period, which allows us to immerse ourselves fully in a different work culture,” she said.
This extended duration enables participants to gain deeper insights and more comprehensive training than shorter courses.
While embarking on this new journey, Effa admitted to experiencing a mix of excitement and apprehension.
Initially, she felt uncertain as she adjusted to the different work styles in a new company in another state.
“I was quite nervous when I was informed that my attachment would be in Sarawak, and I had no idea what to expect as I was venturing into an unfamiliar place without friends nearby.
“The prospect of adapting to a new environment was intimidating, especially knowing that Sarawakians often speak a different Malay dialect.
“I wondered if I could communicate effectively with the people at Suara Sarawak,” she shared candidly.
However, Effa’s worries quickly disappeared upon her arrival in Sarawak as she expressed surprise and relief at the warmth and hospitality she encountered.
“To my delight, I found the people in Sarawak to be incredibly accommodating.
“They were eager to converse with me, and I was pleasantly surprised to discover that I could understand some of the local dialects.
“The friendly demeanour of the staff at Suara Sarawak made the transition much easier, allowing me to focus on learning and growing in my role,” she recalled with a smile.
During her attachment at Suara Sarawak, Effa not only engaged in various editorial tasks but also had the opportunity to step out into the field to observe firsthand how reporters operate.
“While we at DBP are accustomed to conducting short interviews to gather opinions, I didn’t realise that this practice is specifically called Vox Populi until I began my placement,” she explained.
“This experience has been enlightening, allowing me to grasp the significance of terminology in journalism, including the proper formatting of articles and the theoretical aspects of writing them.”
Effa expressed genuine admiration for the dedication and hard work displayed by reporters in unearthing compelling stories.
“I’ve always known that reporting requires effort, but witnessing it firsthand has given me a newfound appreciation for the craft.
“Although we process what comes to us at DBP, I now understand that the work behind the scenes is extensive and involves much more than simply writing,” she stated.
One of the highlights of her experience was the mentorship she received from senior reporters at Suara Sarawak.
Effa expressed heartfelt gratitude for their guidance throughout the complexities of the news writing process.
“While working with the senior reporters, I learned the importance of constructive feedback.
“I would draft my articles and present them to the senior reporter in charge of the events we attended, and they would provide valuable insights, allowing me to revise my pieces until they were satisfied with the final drafts.
“When my articles were published with my name credited as the writer, it filled me with immense pride and a sense of accomplishment,” she said.
Effa also took the opportunity to reflect on the contrasting dynamics between magazine and media work.
She explained that while her team at DBP typically plans a month’s worth of magazine publications, the media industry operates at a much faster pace, and this environment requires quicker responses and immediate attention to meet tight deadlines.
“The media landscape demands agility, and initially, I was concerned that I wouldn’t be able to cope with the fast-paced environment.
“Fortunately, everyone at Suara Sarawak was incredibly supportive, which made the transition smoother.
“Thus, I found the experience of working in news reporting invaluable,” she admitted.
Despite her newfound appreciation for the fast-paced media environment, Effa acknowledged her passion for working with creative texts, such as short stories and poetry.
“While I enjoy the creative aspects of writing, I believe this experience in media will greatly enhance my versatility as an editor.
“The skills I’ve acquired at Suara Sarawak will undoubtedly contribute to my growth and development in editorial work,” she stated confidently.
In addition to her personal growth, Effa highlighted the diverse range of publications under DBP, noting that the organisation boasts 11 printed magazines, including Dewan Pelajar, Dewan Siswa, Dewan Masyarakat, Dewan Budaya, Dewan Bahasa, and Tunas Cipta.
“I take pride in editing Tunas Cipta, which focuses on literature and the development of young writers where our mission is to nurture emerging talent and provide a platform for young voices to be heard,” she explained, emphasising her commitment to fostering literary growth.
Effa reflected on how her working style has evolved due to this attachment, particularly given DBP’s previous lack of direct journalism experience.
“Before this, my work on online news for DBP did not involve hands-on journalism experience.
“However, I am truly grateful for the opportunity to learn from seasoned reporters and gain practical skills that will contribute to enhancing the news portal at DBP.
“I believe that the insights I’ve gained will empower me to improve the quality of content we deliver to our readers,” she stated.
As her attachment period drew to a close, Effa expressed her satisfaction over her time at Suara Sarawak, and she encouraged her future colleagues to consider doing their PLS there.
“The atmosphere at Suara Sarawak is warm and welcoming, and I wholeheartedly recommend that my colleagues take their PLS here.
“They shouldn’t feel intimidated by the prospect of being away from home; the hospitality and bonding within the organisation make it an enriching experience,” she assured.
Furthermore, Effa emphasised the emotional impact of her placement, sharing how much she would miss the sense of belonging and warmth she experienced during her time in Sarawak, especially in Kuching.
“The connections I formed and the memories I created here will stay with me long after I leave.
“This experience has enriched my professional skills and allowed me to forge meaningful relationships that I will cherish,” she reflected.
As Effa prepares to conclude her attachment at Suara Sarawak, she looks forward to applying her newfound skills and knowledge to her work at DBP, and her journey through the PLS has equipped her with practical experience in the media landscape and instilled a sense of confidence and resilience.
The lessons learned and connections made during this time will undoubtedly shape her future endeavours as she continues her career in the literary and media sectors.
Thus, Effa’s pioneering experience in the PLS has opened doors to new opportunities and fostered a spirit of collaboration and growth within DBP.
