Veteran Journalists Should View Younger Peers As Successors, Not Rivals – Charles Mohan

KUALA LUMPUR, June 12 (Bernama) – Veteran journalists should regard their younger peers as successors rather than rivals, says former journalist and television personality Charles Mohan.

He said the younger generation of journalists today brought their own strengths, particularly in mastering digital technology and social media, which could offer new approaches beneficial to the industry.

“Veteran journalists like me may lack knowledge of the digital world, whereas the younger ones are fast and active on social media. This is something we can learn from them,” he said while appearing as a guest on Bernama TV’s Ruang Bicara programme tonight.

Charles said young journalists should not be underestimated simply due to their age or lack of experience, but instead seen as the next generation to continue the legacy of journalism in the country.

He also called for a change in newsroom culture, urging editors and senior journalists to adopt a more open and respectful approach rather than scolding or belittling younger journalists’ opinions.

“We must create a win-win situation where they (young journalists) learn from our experience, and we learn from their fresh and fast-paced approach,” he said.

Charles stressed that only through collaboration and knowledge exchange between generations of journalists would the profession remain relevant, progressive, and adaptable to current changes.

His views were supported by Bernama TV journalist Zanariah Nor Zin, who said young journalists contributed many creative ideas that made digital content fresher and more engaging.

“Sometimes, there are insights or knowledge we gain from these young journalists. If you look at Bernama’s digital platforms, the content produced now is more dynamic and appealing because of the creative ideas of fresh graduates who are highly exposed to the digital world.

“I believe with their talent, particularly in digital skills, if combined with in-depth reporting, it will enhance the quality of reports produced,” she said.

-- BERNAMA