Sibu: Retired journalist Edward Subeng Stephen has called on members of the media to uphold fairness, clarity, and responsibility in their reporting, describing journalism as an indispensable vehicle for nation-building. Speaking after receiving the Tokoh Hawana 2025 award from the Sibu Journalists Association (SJA) at the National Press Day dinner here last night, Edward stressed that journalism goes beyond simply reporting events.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Edward emphasized that journalism is about educating the public, inculcating good values, morality, fairness, and inclusivity. He also stated that it is about inspiring success, accountability, and goodwill. Edward, who served over 40 years in the media industry, shared that he witnessed both pleasant and heart-wrenching moments, covering tragedies and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Edward began his career as a reporter and later Sub-Editor for the Bahasa Malaysia page with The Herald from June 1976 to 1978. He joined the Malaysia National News Agency (Bernama) on July 7, 1997, as a district correspondent for Sibu, followed by a posting in Kuching before his mandatory retirement on June 24, 2018. Subsequently, he worked in the Press Section of the Information Department of Rajang Security Command as a photographer before becoming an assistant press officer covering Sibu, Sarikei, Kapit, and Bintulu.

After retiring from Bernama, Edward joined UKAS (Sarawak Public Communication Unit) and was attached to State Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah as a media officer for seven years until June 2025. Reflecting on his role, Edward remarked that it was a privileged position where he was exposed to high-level politics and the dedication of Datuk Amar in carrying out his ministerial duties.

The award was presented by Albert Tiang, representing his brother, Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang. Also present were SJA chairman Florence Nervyn and Sibu Municipal Council chairman Clarence Ting. Edward expressed hope that the SJA would continue to honor deserving journalists, not only from Sibu but also from the Kapit, Sarikei, and Mukah regions.

The inaugural SJA award was introduced to recognize the service and dedication of journalists in Sibu.