KUALA LUMPUR: The National Press Club (NPC) celebrated its Diamond Jubilee by shining a spotlight on women leaders in journalism, recognising their invaluable contributions to the Malaysian media landscape.
The event, held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec), honoured 17 journalists for their dedication to truth, nation-building, and their profound influence on the industry.
Out of the 17, four female journalists were presented the Media Luminary Award as trailblazers in the industry; comprising Media Prima Television Networks (MPTN) and Primeworks Studios chief executive officer Nini Yusof, media consultant and journalist Datuk Nuraina Samad, Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) chief executive officer Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin and Star Media Group chief content officer Datin Paduka Esther Ng.
Nini said she did not expect to receive the honours as the other recipients were the people who had inspired her.
"I feel extremely grateful and quite surprised. I hope this award will open up or attract more interest among the younger generation to pursue a career in writing, journalism, or news production.
"I also feel that the recognition allows women out there to be more excited or active in seeking out more compelling stories so that they too can have the chance to receive an award like this," she said.
The ceremony also honoured 11 veteran journalists for their lifetime commitment to the highest standards of journalism, acknowledging their role in upholding integrity, fairness, and truth, which has left an indelible impact on society.
They were presented the NPC Diamond Award, the NPC President's Award and the Lifetime Dedication to Journalism Award.
Former New Straits Times group editors P.C. Shivadas and Datuk Hardev Kaur were accorded the NPC Diamond Award and NPC President's Award, respectively.
Throughout the night the veteran journalists caught up with their peers, sharing laughs and reminiscing about their days in the newsroom.
Guests were also treated to a special performance from singer songwriter Datuk Francissca Peter.
Also in attendance to present the awards were Kuala Lumpur Mayor, Datuk Seri Maimunah Mohd Sharif, Ministry of Communications deputy secretary-general Nik Kamaruzaman Nik Husin, along with NPC President Datuk Ahirudin Attan and organising chairman, NPC vice-president Farrah Naz Karim.
Ahirudin in his speech said the awards are a celebration of those who have blazed a trail for all in the industry.
"We are indeed humbled that you are all here tonight. You are the giants that have chronicled our nation's development.
"We stand on your shoulders, as it is the only way that we can see clearly into the challenging future ahead," he said.
At the end of the night, a lucky draw was held, with one winner walking away with a pair of return tickets to Jakarta, Indonesia, courtesy of TansNusa Airline.
A host of other prizes were also given away at the event which was supported by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad, PETRA Energy Berhad, YTL Power International Berhad, Tadmax Sdn Bhd (Nadias Hotel Langkawi), My Qaseh Sdn Bhd, Mercure Kuala Lumpur Shaw Parade, Eastin Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Muito Bom! Brazilian Restaurant, and Roberto's Osteria.