A group of mid-career journalists from Malaysia have taken time out as part of a three-day reporting fellowship in Australia.

Some 14 journalists took part in a virtual reporting fellowship, a joint project of Sydney-based Judith Neilson Institute and Australia’s foreign affairs and trade department.

The project provided an opportunity to expand cross-country knowledge, and make expert and industry contacts between the two countries. “Each had an eye to possible stories now, and future career prospects,” said JNI education director Andrea Ho.

The Australian journalists came from a range of media organisations, including The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald, the Australian Financial Review, The Australian, Guardian Australia, AAP, ABC and SBS. The Malaysian participants came from The Star, Astro AWANI, the Daily Express, Sinar Daily and Sin Chew Daily.

Two groups – one in Sydney and one in Kuala Lumpur – joined via video-conferencing into a single virtual room. “There, the fellows heard briefings from speakers in both countries, experienced virtual tours, and were mentored in subject matter and reporting craft,” says Ho.

“The peers also exchanged information and ideas on hot button issues such as press freedom, and reporting on recent and upcoming elections.

“Fellows are encouraged to produce original journalism arising from the three day fellowship, and already ideas are forming. The contacts they have made over the fellowship will deepen connections between both countries, and expand the breadth and nuance of reporting by all involved.

Photos: Nailah Huda