A journey through journalism

Reading a news article is a simple task, but writing one requires significant time and effort. Often overlooked for their contributions to society, journalists possess skills built from years of experience. From mastering the art of researching to crafting a story from scratch, their labour of love ensures that accurate information is published and shared to inform the public.

Recently, veteran journalist Sulok Tawie was honoured with the Sarawak Premier Special Appreciation Award during Hawana 2024. This award was given alongside six others, including Sarawak Tribune Associate Editor M. Rajah. Sulok has also previously won awards from the Kenyalang Journalism Awards.

Having been a journalist since 1977, Sulok started his career with the Sarawak Herald, and later worked with The Borneo Post, New Straits Times, and the Sun Daily. Among his notable positions was serving as the Sarawak Bureau Chief for the New Straits Times.

Sulok holds his mock cheque and award certificate while standing alongside his daughter, who is also a journalist.

Today, at 68 years old, while working part-time for the Malay Mail, he is also a part-time farmer tending to his oil palm plantation in his village in Simunjan. Some days, he is busy behind his computer typing out news, while on other days, he is harvesting oil palm alongside his wife.

With his passion for journalism, the veteran journalist shares more about his work in the media industry with Sarawak Tribune.

Q: What is your proudest achievement as a journalist?

A: There is no particular achievement that I have experienced. One thing is certain: journalists must be proud of their profession. Journalism is a noble and respected profession. If you want to make money and become rich, choose another profession. Journalism is not the place for anyone to become rich. You become a journalist because you love writing, not because you cannot find any other job. You will not become a successful journalist if your heart is not in it.

What are the toughest challenges as a journalist?

I have noticed there are many young reporters who are scared or shy to ask questions. Maybe asking questions is the toughest challenge for them. There is no need to be scared or shy. Before you go to a press conference, get to know the subjects that the person who called the press conference wants to talk about. Do some background research first so that you know what kind of questions you want to ask. Listen to what that person is trying to convey and ask them to clarify if you are not sure. Some people, especially politicians, like to beat around the bush. Just cut them short and proceed to ask another question. Be brave. A press conference, especially one called by a politician or minister, is also a time for reporters to ask about other unrelated issues. This is the time reporters can catch the politician or minister unprepared, though it is up to them to answer.

Who are the most notable people you have interviewed?

One of the most interesting interviews I had was with the late Tun Datu Mustapha Datu Harun, former Sabah Chief Minister, in the 1980s. Before the interview started, he would play oldies music on his violin to entertain the reporters. He was the only politician I know who did that before each press conference. Of course, his supporters who were at the press conferences would ask him to play some more. “Main lagi, Tun. Main lagi,” they would urge him. I would say he was not that good with the violin, but his supporters were pleased to praise him for his musical talent.

Another interesting politician I had interviewed was the late Sarawak Chief Minister Tun Abdul Rahman Yaakub. Rahman Yaakub was a shrewd politician. He knew what the media wanted. He would start with an introduction, much like the media does, before going into the main part of his story with the details for the media to quote. The media did not need to ask him many questions. His English was perfect as well.

I also interviewed Sarawak’s first Chief Minister, the late Tan Sri Stephen Kalong Ningkan. I visited him at his residence at Rubber Road. He was no longer the chief minister, and his place as Sarawak National Party (SNAP) president had been taken over by Datuk Amar James Wong. Ningkan was a very strong advocate of Sarawak’s rights. His battle cry was “Sarawak for Sarawakians”, and it is still widely shouted in Sarawak nowadays.

Did you have any memorable moments during your time as a journalist?

But of course, there are many moments that I cannot forget until today. One thing I cannot forget is when politicians and other professionals show little respect for reporters. There were also occasions when media personnel were given seats in unsuitable places at functions organised by associations or companies with ministers or premiers as guests of honour.

What tips and tricks can you share with your fellow junior journalists?

There is nothing better than learning from experience, something universities often do not teach. A tape recorder is a very useful tool for reporters. Use it to record, for instance, a politician delivering a speech. Keep the recording stored in case there is a dispute over the accuracy of your reporting. I normally listen attentively to the people I interview while recording our conversation. This helps me gain a clearer picture and understanding of what is being said.

If the people you interview evade your questions, some journalists might paraphrase their responses and hope for agreement without objection. However, some individuals may retort, “Don’t put words in my mouth.” I have encountered this situation many times — some agree, while others do not. It is a skill journalists must learn.

Young reporters, even seasoned ones, should start with “soft” questions to create a friendly atmosphere.

They must be courageous in asking questions, whether they are straightforward or challenging.