KUALA LUMPUR: Tharanya Arumugam, the New Straits Times' journalist, has recently been recognised for her outstanding achievements in journalism.
The Indian High Commission in Malaysia honoured Tharanya, who is currently NST digital news editor, alongside seven other acclaimed Malaysian women, during a ceremony commemorating International Women's Day.
The event, held at the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Indian Cultural Centre on March 9, celebrated women's accomplishments across various domains, including social service, medicine, fine arts, and journalism.
Honourable Justice Tan Sri Datuk Nallini Pathmanathan, a Federal Court Judge and one of the honourees, graced the occasion as the chief guest.
In her keynote address, Nallini emphasised this year's International Women's Day theme, "Inspire Inclusion," advocating for inclusion to improve women's participation across society and empower them to achieve financial independence.
High Commissioner of India B.N. Reddy presided over the event, highlighting the Indian government's dedication to empowering women through various initiatives spanning education, entrepreneurship, agriculture, and technology. He underscored the pivotal role women play in shaping the trajectory of New India.
The event, attended by over 200 guests, included members of women's aid organisations, leaders of community organisations, business and cultural associations in Malaysia, as well as academicians, teachers, students from schools in Kuala Lumpur, and media representatives.
Other distinguished recipients included Mary Shanthi Dairiam, founder and current director of International Women's Rights Action Watch - Asia Pacific; Dr Kirenjit Kaur Sidhu, specialising in Obstetrics & Gynaecology; Datuk Bindi Rajasegaran, founder and director of the National Coalition for Mental Wellbeing Bhd; Professor Dr Aruna Gopinath from the National Defence University of Malaysia; and Tan Mei Mei of Sutra Foundation.
Tharanya began her journey with New Straits Times as a news desk reporter in July 2013, later specialising in global affairs, public health, climate, and science reporting.
Renowned for her comprehensive approach to hard news reporting, she has pioneered long-form journalism in New Straits Times, garnering a loyal readership.
Tharanya's commitment and impactful journalism have earned her numerous accolades, including the National Press Club Young Journalist of the Year award in 2014, the Malaysian Press Institute Best News Report award, and the A. Samad Ismail Young Journalist Award in 2015.
Her reports have influenced policy decisions and spurred meaningful change. She has also represented Malaysia and NST at international conferences and programs in Dubai, Turkey, Thailand, and Cambodia.
Tharanya holds a Bachelor's degree in Journalism from the University of South Australia. In 2018, she was awarded the prestigious Chevening scholarship, enabling her to pursue a Master's in Science in International Relations at the University of Bristol, United Kingdom, graduating with distinction.
She was also a recipient of the esteemed United Nations Reham al-Farra (RAF) Journalism Fellowship in 2022 and 2023.
Tharanya currently leads a dynamic team of 12 in elevating digital strategies for enhanced audience engagement.