UTAR Corporate Communication students excel at NYRE Competition 2025

UTAR Faculty of Creative Industries (FCI) Corporate Communication students triumphed at the National Young Reporters for the Environment (NYRE) Competition 2025, clinching first, second, and third places in the Long-Form Reportage Video category (18–24 years old). Announced online on 11 November 2025, the winners received trophies and certificates, while the first-place team also earned an eco-tourism trip in recognition of their outstanding work.

Organised by Young Reporters for the Environment (YRE), the competition challenges youth aged 10 to 24 across Malaysia to raise awareness of environmental issues through creative storytelling via writing, photography, and videography. It aims to inspire young people to investigate real-world environmental challenges and present solution-driven narratives that promote sustainability.

The YRE programme aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by encouraging participants to explore environmental challenges in their communities and connect their stories to global sustainability efforts. The programme focuses on three key themes of environmental journalism: pollution, biodiversity loss and climate change.

First-place was awarded to Ng Zi Thong and Cheong Zhi Yin for their video titled Feeding the Future: Tackling Climate Change for Food Security. Their reportage explored the relationship between climate change and food security, highlighting how environmental changes affect food production and the need for sustainable solutions.

Ng expressed that the achievement represented not only the final outcome but also the dedication and learning process behind the project. She credited the success to the strong teamwork with her partner and the valuable insights shared by their interviewees. Cheong described the competition as an eye-opening experience. While editing their video, she reflected on how everyday choices affect the planet’s future and expressed hope that their work would inspire others to take small but meaningful steps towards sustainability.

Second-place went to Eric Wong Chuang Lik and Geoden Lim Swee Hung for their video Pasar Seni Speaks Out on Noise Pollution. The project investigated the issue of noise pollution in urban areas, shedding light on how excessive noise affects communities and the environment.

Geoden Lim and Eric Wong highlighted the strong teamwork that carried them through the entire process. They extended their appreciation to the organisers for providing such a rewarding opportunity. Reflecting on their first participation in the competition, they noted that participating in the competition was both fulfilling and memorable, and they were thankful to everyone who watched and enjoyed their video.

Meanwhile, Gan Kai Jin and Lee Cui Yi secured third place with their video Climate Change: Urban Greening. Their project examined the role of urban greening initiatives in addressing climate change and improving environmental sustainability in city landscapes.

Gan and Lee described it as a meaningful experience that strengthened their commitment to environmental storytelling. They conveyed their appreciation to the Free Tree Society for supporting their project and allowing them to learn more about tree-planting initiatives through an interview. Reflecting on the experience, they noted that the project not only deepened their understanding of environmental conservation but also inspired them to continue using media to advocate for a greener and more sustainable future.

Through their award-winning video reportage projects, the UTAR students demonstrated strong investigative storytelling and environmental awareness while addressing pressing global issues. Their success reflects UTAR’s commitment to nurturing socially responsible communicators capable of using media and storytelling to drive positive environmental change.

The students also extended their heartfelt gratitude to FCI academic Ms Khor Gee Khing, whose mentorship and encouragement played an important role in guiding them throughout the project and preparing them for the competition.