Being a journalist in a foreign country is always an eye-opening experience. But being a Malaysian journalist in China, especially at a time of shifting global narratives, brings with it a unique set of challenges and responsibilities.

Over the past three months, I was based in Beijing under the China International Press Communication Centre (CIPCC) programme, living and working alongside fellow journalists from more than 40 countries.

Together, we travelled across provinces, attended press briefings, forums and conferences, and visited schools, technology hubs, industrial ports and manufacturing centres. The stories we encountered were carefully curated to highlight China’s progress and its rising stature on the world stage.

Undeniably, many of these stories were impressive. The scale of innovation, infrastructure and ambition in China is extraordinary. From cutting-edge artificial intelligence labs in Shenzhen to green logistics ports in Tianjin, it is clear that China is positioning itself to play a defining role in the next chapter of global development.

For many nations, particularly those in the Global South, China offers an increasingly attractive alternative to traditional Western powers.

Constantly mindful

Yet, as a journalist from Malaysia, I was constantly mindful that not every story encountered was necessarily one to pursue.

Malaysia’s position on the global stage is one of measured neutrality and balanced diplomacy, especially in contexts like the ongoing trade tensions between China and the United States. We maintain good relations with both nations and continue to engage with them on multiple fronts.

Even as Washington recently imposed reciprocal tariffs on Chinese goods, Malaysia has chosen dialogue over confrontation. Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz has undertaken workings visits to the United States for tariff-related engagements, most recently from June 18-20, 2025, holding discussions with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick.

This reflects the broader policy outlined by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim – Malaysia will remain non-aligned and not takes sides in major power rivalries.

Such a balancing act demands similar discretion from journalists. I found myself reflecting deeply on how certain narratives – especially those tied to geopolitical tensions or ideological themes – would be received in the Malaysian context.

Some stories, while relevant and acceptable within the Chinese framework, might not align with Malaysia’s diplomatic posture or media norms. Topics like the U.S.-China trade war, the global electric vehicle race, or politically weighted statements lacking verifiable data were common themes across official engagements.

These are undoubtedly important issues. However, I had to continually assess how such coverage might resonate – or risk misinterpretation – back home.

For instance, part of our itinerary included a visit to a museum dedicated to Communist Party history and a school that incorporates its ideology into its curriculum. While this offered valuable cultural and political insight into China’s governance model, I knew I had to report on it with caution. In Malaysia, such topics require careful framing to avoid confusion or controversy, especially given our country’s own historical and societal sensitivities.

Reporting with responsibility

Journalism, after all, is not only about reporting what we see. It’s about reporting with responsibility.

Malaysia’s strength lies in its balance – and so should our journalism. As reporters, we must not only inform but also respect the values of our readership and the broader context in which our work will be received.

After 15 years in journalism, I have learnt that discretion is not about self-censorship. It’s about understanding your audience, your national context, and your responsibility as a communicator.

This experience in China has sharpened my appreciation for that responsibility. It has reminded me that journalism isn’t just about chasing headlines or breaking news. It’s also about knowing when to ask more questions, when to hold back, and when to steer clear of narratives that may cross into propaganda.

At the same time, reporting from abroad comes with logistical hurdles. It isn’t always easy to get hold of the right contacts or verified sources, especially when language and access become barriers. That, too, has been a humbling lesson.

As I prepare to return home, I bring back more than notes and photos – I carry with me a renewed understanding of what it means to be a journalist in a complex, interconnected world. And perhaps that is the most valuable takeaway of all.

-- BERNAMA

Kisho Kumari Sucedaram is a journalist with BERNAMA.