KUCHING: It’s a remarkable milestone for journalism in Sarawak as Datuk Dr Jeniri Amir, a distinguished senior fellow of the National Council of Professors, adds another achievement to his illustrious career. He has been appointed as a member of the prestigious Malaysia-Indonesia Brotherhood of Journalists (ISWAMI) Malaysia Administrative Council, marking a new phase in the field.
Currently the Chief Executive Officer of the New Sarawak Tribune and Suara Sarawak, Jeniri joins an esteemed group of 15 individuals for the term 2023-2025. This appointment follows the committee election at the ISWAMI Annual Meeting held in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday (Nov 30).
Jeniri’s journalistic journey began in 1993, and he has since become a respected figure in the national journalism scene. His outstanding contributions were recognized when he became the first Sarawak media practitioner to receive the Special Award at the MPI-Petronas Malaysian Journalism Awards 2021.
Having previously served as a lecturer at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), Jeniri has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of journalism, educating and inspiring budding journalists.
Currently at the helm of two highly regarded local newspapers, the New Sarawak Tribune and Suara Sarawak, Jeniri’s influence extends beyond his leadership roles. He is a prolific writer, with an impressive portfolio that encompasses politics, biographies of prominent Sarawak leaders, and a remarkable collection of over 50 books and more than 3,000 articles spanning various fields and genres.
Jeniri’s expertise as a sought-after political analyst has made him a familiar face on mainstream television stations and media outlets, where he provides invaluable insights into the country’s ever-evolving political landscape.
Established in 2005, ISWAMI serves as the bridge between Malaysia and Indonesia, addressing critical issues such as overlapping claims in Ambalat, border disputes, and labour concerns. By bringing together journalists from both nations, ISWAMI aims to strengthen bilateral relations, foster dynamic connections among their people, address conflicts, and promote socio-cultural matters through the dissemination of information.
This collaboration is poised to bring numerous advantages to both countries, fostering regional growth and competition on a larger scale. By showcasing economic opportunities and attracting investments, ISWAMI opens doors to new horizons, offering a platform for enhanced regional development.
In other exciting news, Ashwad Ismail, the esteemed editor-in-chief of Astro Awani, has been appointed as the new president, taking the reins from the accomplished Datuk Mokhtar Hussain, who completed his term. Joining Ashwad Ismail are notable figures such as Datuk Ahmad Zaini Kamaruzzaman, the Managing Editor of NSTP Group, as vice president, and Hani Muhili, the Press Secretary to the Minister of Communication and Multimedia, as vice president 1.
Additionally, Kamarudin Mape, the Head of News and Current Affairs at Media Prima Berhad, has been appointed as vice president 2, while the position of secretary-general remains entrusted to Mohd Shukri Ishak, the Chief of Bernama TV and Radio Broadcasting Service.
The ISWAMI Malaysia Administrative Council boasts an impressive lineup of members, including the esteemed Datuk Lichong Angkui (Utusan Borneo-Sabah), Roslan Ariffin, Datuk Zulkefli Hamzah (UtusanTV), Nur-ul Afida Kamaluddin (Bernama), and Farrah Naz Karim (NST).
The vital role of executive secretary is undertaken by Mohd Razman Abdullah (Bernama), executive secretary 2 is entrusted to Mariati Mohd Arif (Bernama), and executive secretary 3 is held by Siti Kadtijah Hamid.
With the addition of Jeniri Amir to the Malaysia-Indonesia Brotherhood of Journalists (ISWAMI) Malaysia Administrative Council, the future of journalism in Sarawak is set to soar to new heights. Dr Jeniri’s expertise, combined with the collective talent and vision of the council members, promises to usher in an era of stronger bilateral relations, insightful reporting, and impactful journalism that will shape the regional landscape for years to come.
