Ushar Daniele, an independent journalist from Sabah, Malaysia, has covered a diverse range of stories for over a decade.
She reports on humanitarian and environmental issues to mentoring aspiring journalists at Climate Tracker Asia. She shares insights on how journalism has transformed her life, the importance of building strong media relationships, and the journalistic values she upholds to this day.
Based in Kuala Lumpur, Ushar has contributed to prestigious media outlets such as Al Jazeera English, CNN, VICE, South China Morning Post, The New York Times, and others.
Ushar spoke with RadVoice Indonesia about her perspectives and challenges as an independent journalist in an ever-evolving media landscape.
Journalism from Ushar Daniele’s Perspective
How has journalism changed your life and your worldview?
“Starting my career as a journalist at 23 was a life-changing experience.
“Coming from a completely different background, transitioning from the medical field to the newsroom was a significant shift.
“However, after a year of reporting, I realized that journalism was where I truly belonged. It gave me a deeper understanding of current affairs and the struggles faced by Malaysians at the grassroots level.
“I started as a beat reporter covering local councils and human interest stories before moving on to crime and financial reporting.
“This journey helped me understand how the world functions and how global events impact people’s lives.
“It was a steep learning curve, not only in developing my journalistic skills but also in cultivating essential soft skills like empathy, patience, resilience, and most importantly, kindness.”
What journalistic values do you still hold dear today?
“There is no such thing as an unimportant story.
“Sometimes, small stories can drive significant change. I firmly believe that even the smallest voices can make a big impact in the world.
“In addition, the essence of journalism today is facing challenges posed by technological advancements.
“The rampant spread of disinformation and misinformation has put journalists and newsrooms in a difficult position, especially given the ease of information access online.
“Trust in the press and journalists has declined significantly over the years, but I believe resilience is key.
“We will continue to report facts accurately and promptly.”
Ushar Daniele’s Work
What has been your most memorable reporting experience?
“There have been many, but the most unforgettable one was covering the disappearance of MH370 in 2014.
“I was still a junior journalist, struggling to process news at such a fast pace.
“I recall being at the airport, witnessing grief-stricken families arriving for their briefings.
“One moment that has stayed with me was encountering a father who had just lost his loved one. The media swarmed him for a comment, but he declined.
“After the crowd dispersed, I approached him, not with a question, but with a simple expression of condolences.
“He looked at me, said, ‘Thank you,’ and walked away. That moment reinforced my belief that journalism isn’t just about getting the story; it’s about understanding humanity.”
How do you tell Malaysia’s stories to a global audience?
“Malaysia is a vibrant, multicultural, and multireligious country, which presents both challenges and opportunities in storytelling.
“My passion lies in reporting wildlife stories, with the Malayan tiger being a national and global icon.
“Using the tiger as a focal point, I have crafted numerous stories highlighting its endangered status, the illegal wildlife trade, indigenous ranger protection units, and the role tigers play in the ecosystem.
“These narratives not only capture the interest of a global audience but also educate Malaysians on the importance of conservation.
“Stories matter, and the way we tell them can shape perspectives and inspire change.
“Through storytelling, I aim to bridge the gap between scientific research and public awareness, making complex issues more accessible and inspiring action.”
The Challenges and Essentials of Journalism Today
How important are media relations for NGOs and other organizations?
“I believe that building strong media relations are crucial for NGOs, CSOs, and other organizations, especially in today’s media landscape.
“Journalism no longer relies solely on press conferences or on-site reporting.
“The best stories often emerge from collaborations between newsrooms and these organizations.
“These relationships must be nurtured to ensure comprehensive reporting from multiple perspectives.”
What are the biggest challenges in journalism today, and how can they be overcome?
“The digital era poses significant challenges to journalism, particularly with the rise of misinformation and disinformation.
“The overwhelming accessibility of online information has contributed to a decline in media trust. However, the essence of journalism lies in resilience.
“Despite these challenges, journalists must continue to report with accuracy, integrity, and timeliness. The truth remains our greatest tool, and our responsibility is to uphold it.
“Journalism is more than just a profession, it’s a calling. It demands passion, perseverance, and a commitment to uncovering the truth.
“While the industry continues to evolve, the core values of storytelling, integrity, and empathy will always remain at its heart.”
What are your biggest lessons for aspiring independent journalists?
“Passion is key. Pursue journalism with dedication and always give your best.
“There will be days when passion alone is not enough, but never give up.
“Love what you do, and work will never feel like a burden. Approach journalism with heart, soul, and a drive to make a difference.
“The saying goes, ‘Go big or go home,’ but in journalism, it’s about going big and filing your story with pride.”
Summary
Ushar Daniele’s journey in journalism demonstrates that this profession is not just about reporting news. It is about understanding people, fostering empathy, and building strong connections with communities.
With unwavering dedication, Ushar continues to uphold journalistic values despite the immense challenges of the digital era.
For young journalists, she offers invaluable advice: pursue your work with heart and never give up.
The interview with Ushar Daniele, conducted by Randy Mulyanto on September 1, 2024, was first published in Indonesian on September 23, 2024.
