It’s an immutable truth that where Al Jazeera focuses on, controversy follows. The news channel by the Emir of Qatar (Emir = title of Muslim ruler) broke onto the international scene with Al Jazeera English 5 years ago.
Initially, this news network started in 1996 was intended to dissent views via call-in shows and create controversies in the Arab states.
Today, Al Jazeera started in Doha, Qatar and has expanded its reach with 3 other main offices in Washington, London, and Malaysia.
All the 4 officers location symbolizes a diamond shape on the map. Of course, there are many other smaller bureaus located all over the world to obtain news first hand.
One day, my Computer Assisted Investigative Research lecturer, Miss Anita decided to bring us to tour around the 60th floor of KLCC, which is the Al Jazeera KL office.
Often something will turn up in front of us that isn’t exactly what we expected. Arriving at the entrance of Al Jazeera after a few wrong elevator attempts; the only word that uttered out of my mouth was…simple!
Over discussions of the working environment here, Mr.Jayaganesh Sabapathy, Head of Technical Operations explains it could be quite hectic at the editing rooms.
Just like any other newsroom, TIK TOK TIK TOK, time is ticking and every second counts.
And one of their common jokes to keep them sane is nationality friendly tease. They call each other according to their nationality.
Just in time, they were broadcasting APEC 2009 news. Then it struck me, ‘If I jump into the set now, I’ll be famous!’ On the second thought, I asked Mr Jaya, ‘How many seconds delay to live?’ He answered with a smile, ‘8 seconds.’
There, within 8 seconds I could be cuffed up and send off to Guantanamo Bay. So, I lose that thought.
It doesn’t just happen, a lot of hard work required. Filtering stories, setting up camp base where the event happens. Sending reporters and compiling details. Editing quickly and broadcast it. Gosh, just for a minute or two news.
In the end, the trip turned out to be more than just a tour; it was a lifetime experience. The next time I return, I’ll be either working there or as a guest to be interviewed.
*fingers crossed*
