As a way to enhance
their effectiveness and reach, as well as to position themselves as the top
alternative news medium in the country, The Malaysian Insider (TMI) used an
unconventional approach to draw closer to their readers and followers.
Being non-conforming
in the way they tell their news, the online news portal hosted a series of gatherings
they called Thought Leadership dinners. These gatherings were a platform for
them to engage people in civil society discussion as well as to initiate a
debate about contemporary issues among people with different perspectives.
In line with their
commitment to freedom of expression / speech, the sessions were considered a
success among those who attended. The first round of the series witnessed TMI’s
entertaining columnist Art Harun talking to the crowd about issues of interest
at the time. It was a good old debate session with a slightly tense aura in the
room; different people convincing their interpretations of all sorts of issue. But
all of them remained open-minded, and left with fresh perspectives up their
sleeves.
Held at Aliyaa
Restaurant in Damansara and other restaurants in KL subsequently, the attendance
list consisted of a few journalists from local media, some key influencers,
interested ordinary citizens, and the Orchan team; all warmly welcomed by the Insiders.
Orchan was part of
this event not as a participant, but as the assisting host. The Thought
Leadership engagement approach was one of the ideas Orchan suggested in helping
TMI engage better with their readers.
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