The media is undoubtedly one of the most turbulent industries to work in these days. As ownership and readership models, newsroom and source diversity, and the ability to attract (and retain) talent become more pressing issues, it is gratifying indeed to celebrate a 30-year milestone. This was why The Edge Media Group decided to publish Behind the Stories, an in-depth book that chronicles the founding of its financial newspaper, the early days, key players in its editorial journey, moments of triumph, trials and tribulation, newsroom life and more, all set against a backdrop of moments of national — and indeed, international — interest.
In his welcome note at the book launch, The Edge Media Group chairman and owner Tan Sri Tong Kooi Ong said: “We are overwhelmed with gratitude that both Their Royal Highnesses, the Sultan of Selangor and the Sultan of Perak, graciously consented to jointly launch our book. We know that it is a rare honour.
“Many months ago, I casually informed HRH Tuanku Selangor that The Edge is reaching its 30th year and our operations have always been based in Petaling Jaya, Selangor. In other words, while we have national and international reach, our roots have always been in the state. Tuanku then asked if we will be having a celebration, to which I replied, 30 years is too short. Upon reflection, if we do not celebrate 30 — and being Chinese, we will not likely celebrate 40 — and when The Edge reaches 50, both Kay Tat and I will be 85 years old! It will be a surprise if we are still running The Edge then. So, here we are today celebrating our 30th anniversary, as our flagship publication first hit the street on Sept 5, 1994.”
He also took the opportunity to share a short poem by the French poet and playwright Guillaume Appolinaire which he felt summed up the ideals on which he founded the paper:
“Come to the edge,” he said.
“We can’t we’re afraid!” they responded.
‘Come to the edge,” he said.
‘We can’t. We will fall!” they responded.
“Come to the edge,” he said.
And so they came.
And he pushed them.
And they flew.
Tong also reiterated how the publication’s only agenda was to serve the truth and earn the trust of its readers. “I was a stockbroker and banker back then. I knew nothing about running a newspaper, but I saw the need for the country to have a media that is credible, and one readers can trust to report the truth and provide insights that can help them make better business and investment decisions. And one that can contribute to nation-building by advocating economic prosperity and opportunities for every Malaysian to build a better life for themselves.”
In his keynote address, guest of honour HRH Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj of Selangor took the opportunity to speak about how the digital revolution had irrevocably changed the playing field for all media companies, making current news and various types of information easily accessible to society.
“The media plays a very important role in society,” he said. “Other than providing information, knowledge and entertainment, it also acts as a watchdog, holding those in power accountable. It is the Fourth Estate, one that can influence public opinion, shape political decisions and ensure transparency. In an age of fake news, wrong information and misleading headlines, the media shoulders great responsibility to provide good quality and unbiased content. An independent and trusted media is crucial for fair and effective economic development, offering important checks and balances, and making sure there is accountability for businesses and government.”
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His Royal Highness then went on to commend The Edge, saying: “A credible, trusted and independent media like The Edge Malaysia is even more important today than in the past. It is good to note that The Edge Malaysia has performed well, defending its position as the trusted and leading financial news provider in the country. This is indeed an achievement, especially when many traditional print media and even mainstream media have struggled.
“This book, Behind the Stories, not only tells the twists and turns of The Edge’s journey for 30 years, its challenges, as well as the ups and downs it encountered, but also represents the behind-the-scenes stories, specifically of its owner, Tan Sri Tong Kooi Ong. The last chapter, written by Tan Sri Tong, is a personal account of his struggles as The Edge went on its exposé of 1MDB, of why he felt The Edge needed to do what it did, what he had to do, and his reasons … much of which is revealed for the first time. But all this is just a trailer. Now you must read the book!”
Well, then, what can one say except “Patik menjunjung titah Tuanku”.
