Several members of the media fraternity in Penang were recognized for their contribution and services to the community in conjunction with the 73rd birthday celebrations of the Governor of Penang, Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak.
Leading the list with the highest award is senior writer S. Arulldas who received the Darjah Setia Pangkuan Negeri (DSPN) which carries the Dato’ title.
He is presently attached with Malaysiakini as a senior journalist.
Arul’s long career in the media industry has seen him working with The Star, New Straits Times, Malay Mail, The Sun, Vibes during his service in the media industry. He has covered assignments from Prime Ministers, ministers, diplomats and foreign statesmen.
While with The Sun, he was even arrested and detained at the Seberang Prai Tengah police headquarters and charged at the Butterworth Sessions Court the following day.
Nevertheless, it is part and parcel of a journalist’s job to face dire situations and circumstances.
More importantly, he was the winner of the Malaysia Human Rights Commission 2015 Award, Malaysian Press Institute-Petronas – “Excellent Investigative Reporting” award in 2016 with RM10,000 cash and also the ferry terminal collapsed during the 100-year celebration of the St Anne’s Church and the 60-year celebration of the Kuan Yin (Goddess of Mercy) Temple in Penang in 1988.
Recently, he also exposed the story of a houseman’s death at the Penang General Hospital story while at the Vibes portal.
Other media members honoured are Guang Ming general manager, Cheah Chin Wah who has been bestowed the Darjah Johan Negeri (DJN) award.
Butterworth branch Kwong Wah manager, Lim Hai Huat also received the DJN award.
Meanwhile, the writer of this article himself, Sivaji V Pillay, the Editor and writer for this portal was also awarded the Pingat Jasa Kebaktian (PJK) award.
Thank you Penang state government for the meaningful and memorable recognition.