PETALING JAYA, Sept 9 — Malay Mail’s Johor correspondent Dan Guen Chin has been recognised by the state government for his contribution to the development of journalism in the south.
He was awarded the Anugerah Khas Media Johor 2015 (Johor Special Media Award 2015) by Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin on Wednesday.
The 62-year-old journalist, who has been covering issues in Johor for the past 30 years, said being sharp, on the point and polite were keys to getting the job done.
“One of the more important things about being a journalist is to be polite... do not be vulgar, rude or uncouth,” he said.
“Never be afraid to ask questions to get the answers you want.
“I have been a little frail since falling sick so I was especially touched when the MB came off the stage to present the award to me. It was a pleasant surprise.”
Dan, who is undergoing treatment for stomach cancer, said his battle with the illness had neither put a damper on his positive outlook nor made him feel any need to be reserved.
“There is nothing to hide about my battle with cancer, I will face it and I will pull through. Besides, who does not know about it?”
Malay Mail editor-in-chief Datuk Wong Sai Wan congratulated Dan over the award and said it was about time he received recognition for his efforts.
“Dan is a very seasoned campaigner and has covered much on the state, especially sports issues. He deserves the award for his contribution to journalism and the state,” he said.
“We are proud of him and he has proven his strength and determination time and again. I am sure he will win his battle for his health with the same determination.”
Malay Mail Editor Emeritus Frankie D’Cruz said Dan’s the man when it came to resilience and resourcefulness.
“He is unflappable in the face of intense pressure, a true newspaper enthusiast — a great journalist and a kind and generous friend,” he said.
“With his inherent strong spirit and courage, Dan will certainly win his battle against illness and soon be that old newshound we know so fondly.”
Mohd Fahmi Mohd Yusof, friend and fellow reporter with Berita Harian, who was present at the ceremony, called Dan a “legend” and said that he respected the man he first met six years ago.
“He is a legend over here, reporting since the 80s. Everyone in the industry, especially in the state, knows him and his byline well,” he said.
“He is firm and knows how to work the person he is interviewing... we miss his style. Since his recent illness we have sorely missed his presence at assignments.”
The award covers 27 categories for both print and electronic media and is an annual event organised by the Johor government.
A total of 364 entries in four languages — Malay, English, Mandarin and Tamil — were received this year compared to 313 last year.
Entries were judged by a panel from the Malaysian Press Institute comprising journalists and academicians.
