Homecoming for Caroline ...

General News Service (GNS) assistant chief sub-editor Caroline Jackson has taken over the role as Sarawak bureau chief from Abdul Aziz Harun effective today.

Abdul Aziz will return to the headquarters as assistant chief sub-editor.

“After almost five years working at the Bernama headquarters, it certainly feels like a homecoming to me.

“But this time, the political landscape in the country, including Sarawak has changed and the onus is on us as journalists to report the situation as it is and to give two sides of the story whenever possible,” said Caroline.

The state government is now headed by Gabungan Parti Sarawak (Sarawak Parties Alliance) or GPS comprising Sarawak-based political alliance.

It was established by four former Barisan Nasional component parties following the coalition's defeat in the 2018 Malaysian general election.

Caroline confided that she would miss Kuala Lumpur.

“Yes of course...the vibrancy, convenience of urban living and transportation and most of all the experience of interacting not only with fellow Malaysians but also foreigners who considered KL as a great place to live and work.

“And I will also miss the traffic jam in KL by the way.

“But I still feel very bersyukur to be given the opportunity once again to work in my home state,” said Caroline who was born and raised in Kuching.

She joined Bernama in June 1997 after working for Sarawak Tribune and Borneo Bulletin, a Brunei-based daily.

“Being in the subs-desk was definitely an eye opener and good experience because I can now understand the stress, constraints and responsibility of a 'gate keeper'.

“I hope the same support and camaraderie will continue as I resume duty as bureau chief for the second time at the Sarawak bureau.

“My best regards always,” said Caroline who was the bureau chief from January 2007 to December 2013 before her transfer to Kuala Lumpur.