Former Journalists Reflect On Risks, Purpose Of Profession

By Shuhaida Mohd Said

ALOR SETAR, June 19 (Bernama) -- A near-death experience from a stray bullet while covering a conflict zone in Bangkok, Thailand, remains vivid in the memory of former New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd (NSTP) photographer Shahrizal Md Noor, more than two decades after the incident.

For Shahrizal, 60, the frightening moment stands out as one of the most dangerous episodes of his three decades in the media industry, highlighting the real risks faced by journalists working in volatile environments.

Recalling the incident around 2000, he said he and his colleagues were resting at a restaurant while on assignment when sudden gunfire shattered the glass near where they were seated.

“I was assigned to cover the conflict between the ‘red shirts’ and the ‘yellow shirts’ in Thailand. At that time, it was one of the most violent and bloody street clashes in Bangkok.

“While we were working, we never expected shots to be fired from outside the restaurant. The bullets hit the mirror right next to us. That moment made us realise how thin the line is between life and death,” he told Bernama.

Traumatised by the incident, Shahrizal said it prompted him and his colleagues to take immediate steps to ensure their safety, including purchasing bulletproof vests with their own money.

With assistance from contacts in Thailand, they managed to obtain the vests, which cost more than RM500 each at the time — a significant amount then, but one they considered necessary for survival.

“Although the vest was heavy, it gave us a sense of security. When we returned from the assignment, we were informed that the cost could be claimed, but the vest had to be handed back to the company.

“But I chose to keep it. It could still be useful for future assignments in conflict zones, and it also serves as a reminder. Not all journalists or photographers get the chance to cover such assignments,” he said.

Shahrizal said journalism is often perceived as an easy profession, but in reality it demands significant sacrifices in terms of time, energy, finances and personal safety.

Despite the risks, he said he has no regrets, as the career has allowed him to witness historic events and contribute meaningfully to society.

“My greatest satisfaction comes from being able to help people through my work,  such as covering cases of chronically ill patients in need of treatment or underprivileged families requiring assistance,” he said.

Similarly, former Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) journalist Rusiah Abd Hamid, 64, said journalism today goes beyond reporting political, economic or social developments.

She said journalists are often approached by members of the public seeking help due to their connections with elected representatives, government agencies and non-governmental organisations.

“Before helping, we must first verify the facts to ensure the person genuinely needs assistance and is not exploiting the media for personal gain,” she said.

Rusiah recalled one of the most meaningful moments of her career was assisting a single mother who had converted to Islam and was left homeless with her three children following her husband’s death and subsequent eviction by in-laws.

“The children had also dropped out of school due to hardship. She contacted me for help, and Alhamdulillah, the case was referred to the zakat authorities, and she received assistance,” she said.

She said journalism provides unique access to networks that can be used to help vulnerable individuals, but stressed that such responsibility must always be exercised with integrity.

Both media veterans expressed hope that the younger generation of journalists will continue to uphold professional integrity, carry out their duties with dedication and remain committed to journalism’s core role as the voice of the people.

The culmination of the National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) 2026 celebration will be held at PICCA, Penang on June 20, to be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

-- BERNAMA