By Nikita Christye Mitchelle

ISKANDAR PUTERI: The Craft of News Writing Workshop for selected Form 4 students commenced at ibis Styles Johor Iskandar Puteri, with the Johor State Education Department Director officiating at the launch.

The event marks a collaborative initiative between the Johor English Language Teaching Association (JELTA) and the Johor State Education Department to foster journalism skills, media literacy, and English language proficiency among secondary school students.

The main sponsor for the two-day event from August 5-6 was ibis Styles Johor Iskandar Puteri. The special sponsor was University Book Store Malaysia with Malaysian Red Crescent Johor Bahru being the co-sponsor.

The opening day featured a dynamic line-up of sessions, aimed at immersing students in the fundamentals of English journalism while sharpening their critical thinking and communication skills.

A strong endorsement for English language education has come from stakeholders in the service industry, who emphasise its critical role in shaping Malaysia’s future and ensuring the success of its youth on the global stage.

Charanita Gill, general manager of ibis Styles Johor Iskandar Puteri said, “As active members of the service industry, we fully support initiatives that build a brighter and more prosperous future for our children,” she said, adding that English proficiency is not just a skill, but a national asset.

In a rapidly globalising world, strong English communication is seen as a gateway to greater educational and employment opportunities. “Fluency in English empowers our youth to compete confidently at the international level,” she noted, stressing that investing in English education equips the next generation with the tools to succeed while strengthening sectors like hospitality and tourism, which rely heavily on clear communication and cross-cultural understanding.

The ongoing journalism workshop for secondary school students was highlighted as a timely and vital platform to expose students to real-world English. Organisers believe it fosters not only language proficiency but also critical thinking and writing skills.

“Newspapers and online news platforms are excellent tools for English learning — accessible, current, and filled with real-life content, “said Charanita. “This workshop allows students to experience language in action and emerge as confident and competent communicators.”

The initiative underscores a growing recognition that language proficiency is foundational to both personal development and national advancement.

Mohd Ermy Mohd Kasah in his compelling talk spoke on the role of English as a global lingua franca. He underscored how mastery of the language fosters cross-cultural connections and expands access to opportunities in education, business, and innovation.

Keith Thong’s session on “Newspaper Technology in Education,” highlighted how strong English skills can propel both academic and professional growth. “English is more than a language—it’s a powerful tool for empowerment,” he remarked.

JELTA president and workshop organising chairman Vincent D’Silva, a veteran journalist, delivered an essential lesson on the importance of timeliness in journalism. “The ability to respond quickly and accurately in a fast-moving media landscape is what separates a good journalist from a great one,” he told the attentive crowd.

Students also had the rare opportunity to hear from Rizal Abdullah, a retired veteran journalist, who shared vivid stories from his international assignments, providing inspiration through his real-world experiences.

In a hands-on session, former The Star photo journalist Kenneth Wong brought photo journalism to life, reminding participants that impactful journalism isn’t just about words—“A single image,” he said, “can carry a thousand emotions and stories.”

Edey Suresh, Board Director of the UN Global Compact Network Malaysia & Brunei, led a powerful session on fake news, sustainability, and critical thinking. Introducing the SMART formula, he challenged students to consider how truth, media ethics, and environmental awareness intersect in today’s information landscape.

The first day concluded with a practical and timely session by the OCBC Bank Johor team, led by regional general manager Fiona Gan and Juwita Anwar. The talk on scam awareness offered crucial financial safety tips to help students navigate the digital economy wisely and securely.

JELTA expressed appreciation to Charanita Gill, for her support and hospitality in hosting the event.

D’Silva said, “We are gathered here today, thanks to the generous sponsorship of ibis Styles Johor Iskandar Puteri, and for that, we are truly grateful.”

With an enriching first day setting the tone, the workshop promises to continue equipping young minds with the skills, knowledge, and inspiration to tell stories that matter.

Marsha Tan, Head of Campus 42 Iskandar Puteri and former Bureau Chief of The Star Melaka spoke on “Why Newspapers Are Still Necessary Despite the Rise of Online Journalism.”

She emphasized the authenticity, depth, and critical thinking fostered by traditional newspapers in contrast to the fleeting nature of online news consumption.

In a heartfelt moment, she introduced 42 Iskandar Puteri — an innovative, tuition-free coding school that offers alternative pathways for youth. Her message of perseverance struck a chord: “Whatever challenges you are facing, you can overcome them. Believe in yourself. Talk to someone.”

Participants then delved into practical sessions led by workshop facilitators Vincent D’Silva, Rizal Abdullah, and Marsha Tan. Students practised summarising Day One’s events using the journalistic 5Ws and 1H framework.

The activity encouraged peer learning, with even teachers joining in for feedback. “We are not here to condemn or judge, we’re here to listen,” D’Silva reassured students.

Rizal added, “Even one word in a headline can shake the world,” underscoring the impact of precise language in news writing.

A collaborative news writing session followed, reinforcing teamwork and editing skills. Each school group later crafted their own stories using actual newspapers as references, demonstrating remarkable enthusiasm and growing confidence during presentations.

In the afternoon, the Malaysian Red Crescent Society, Johor Bahru Branch, conducted a timely and eye-opening session on Basic Life Support. Referring to recent high-profile collapse incidents, including one at an Indonesian badminton event, the speaker stressed the urgency of equipping youth with emergency response skills to save lives during critical moments.

The workshop concluded with a closing address by Khairiah Mohamad Pauzi from the Johor State Education Department, who encouraged students to apply their newfound skills in their schools and continue fostering a culture of thoughtful writing.

Charanita Gill formally closed the event and presented certificates of participation to students via their teachers. The hotel generously distributed personalized goodie bags to the students, who were clearly delighted by the gesture.

The two-day programme proved to be a transformative experience — empowering students with practical journalism knowledge, critical thinking, and a renewed appreciation for the power of the written word.