KUALA LUMPUR - Despite the common perception that entertainment journalism is limited to celebrity gossip and sensationalism, the reality is that it carries responsibilities on par with journalism in any other field.
From covering international film festivals to documenting street performers, every story crafted by entertainment journalists enriches the nation’s cultural archive, serving as a valuable historical reference for future generations.
Malaysian Entertainment Journalists and Writers Association (WHAM) president Tengku Datuk Khalidah Tengku Bidin said that without arts and entertainment journalists, the creative industry risks losing its sense of direction, as there would be no bridge connecting artists to the public.
"Many think our job is glamorous and laid-back, but the reality is, we shape narratives and bring arts-related issues into public discourse. From the red carpet to backstage, from film festivals to the fate of veteran artists, none of it would reach the audience without us," she told Bernama recently.
Khalidah, 51, who has over two decades of experience as a journalist and currently serves as Head of Branding, Media, and Public Relations at the Social Security Organisation (Perkeso), also hopes that arts and entertainment journalists will receive the recognition they deserve, particularly during the National Journalists’ Day (Hawana) celebration.
"If politics shapes the nation’s policies, then entertainment shapes the soul of the society. We are the bridge between the industry and the public. Without entertainment journalists, the media would lose its colour and emotion. Even with a casual writing style, we still adhere to facts and ethics.
"All this while, the focus has been more on other fields, when in fact, entertainment journalists have also contributed to the development of the country’s arts, communications and broadcasting industries.
"Therefore, WHAM will continue to advocate for them to be appreciated and recognised on equal footing with their peers," said Khalidah.
Harian Metro journalist Norhayati Nordin, 45, shared a similar view, describing entertainment journalism as a vital component of the media ecosystem that provides a refreshing alternative to more serious coverage, such as politics and economics.
With over 20 years in the industry, she emphasised that entertainment writing must remain ethical and fact-based to maintain credibility, instead of merely focusing on sensationalism.
"For example, entertainment reporting in Harian Metro is more fact-driven and based on direct interviews with artists. We rarely rely entirely on social media. If we do refer to it, it’s only as a preliminary source before verifying the truth directly with the artists themselves," she explained.
Norhayati also hoped that Hawana would continue to champion the welfare of all media practitioners, particularly veteran journalists and freelance writers who struggle to survive in the industry, as they are the unsung heroes.
For Wilayahku reporter Mohd Fadhil Abdollah, 41, who has over 15 years of experience, the time has come for entertainment journalists to be given the same recognition as their peers in more traditional beats, as everyone plays a role in delivering information.
"We hope this year’s Hawana celebration provides more space for entertainment journalists, who have long been sidelined,” he said.
Meanwhile, Sinar Harian entertainment journalist Nurezzatul Aqmar Mustaza, 36, believes their role extends beyond covering celebrity lifestyles, as they also highlight the importance of arts, culture and literature.
"I have written pieces on the literary scene and received praise from those directly involved. They felt appreciated for being given the spotlight,” said Nurezzatul, who has more than a decade of journalism experience.
While urging journalists to write with honesty and sincerity, she encouraged newcomers to avoid chasing sensationalism and instead focus on uncovering the true value in every story.
"Don’t lose your identity just for the sake of going viral," she advised.
The highlight of the Hawana 2025 celebration will be held on June 14 at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur.
The main event, which will be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, is expected to draw more than 1,000 media practitioners from both local and international organisations. - BERNAMA