The Progressive Journalism Fellowship is a six-month programme for early to mid-career journalists who want to start or continue reporting on race and religion with more depth, care and support. The fellowship envisions journalism that looks past individual incidents and towards the systems, policies and social conditions that shape them. With its focus on reporting, writing, and publication, the fellowship is designed to help journalists do this work responsibly in a difficult environment.
ABOUT THE FELLOWSHIP
​Successful applicants will receive:
​
-
Writing support grant of RM 3,000 to support the reporting and writing process over the course of the Fellowship. This grant is intended to provide space for research, fieldwork and sustained writing alongside existing newsroom commitments.
-
Mentorship by experienced Malaysian journalists with strong newsroom backgrounds in reporting governance, race, religion and public interest issues. Mentors provide editorial guidance, practical advice, and space to navigate challenges in reporting sensitive topics.
-
A two-day in-person Opening Weekend where Fellows participate in mentor-led workshops on ethical reporting, story development, and navigating race- and religion-related issues.
-
Structured support throughout the Fellowship period through group consultations, feedback and the space to troubleshoot challenges on reporting and publication safely.
As part of the Fellowship, Fellows are required to:
​
-
Attend the Opening Weekend
-
Attend scheduled consultations
-
Work towards producing publishable journalistic outputs by the end of June 2026
-
Provide updates on the progress of their work
FELLOWSHIP MENTORS
The Progressive Journalism Fellowship is supported by Malaysian journalists with experience reporting on race, religion, governance and public interest issues. Mentors bring newsroom insight, editorial rigour, and practical guidance to support Fellows throughout the programme.
.jpeg)
Aidila Razak
Independent
Journalist & Editor
Zurairi A.R
Assistant Foreign Editor
The Straits Times
ELIGIBILITY
Applicants who fulfil the following criteria are eligible for the Journalism Fellowship:
-
Currently working as a journalist either in full-time, part-time or contractual capacity
-
Covering Malaysia in a newsroom (local or foreign)
-
Producing written journalism in any language (print or digital)
-
Able to publish Fellowship outputs through their newsroom
-
Interested in reporting on race, religion, governance or inequality
-
Able to commit to the full Fellowship duration
The Fellowship is not open to:
-
Students
-
Public relations or communications professionals
-
Content creators or influencers without newsroom affiliation
EVALUATION
Applications will be evaluated based on both the applicant and the proposed reporting focus.
Individual considerations
-
Commitment to journalistic practice
-
Ability to engage with complex or sensitive issues
-
Potential to benefit from mentorship and peer exchange
Project Considerations
-
Clarity of reporting focus or question
-
Relevance to race, religion, governance, or inequality in Malaysia
-
Feasibility within the Fellowship period
-
Potential contribution to public understanding
TIMELINE
8 February 2026: Applications Deadline
9 to 15 February 2026: Application Review and Shortlisting
16 February 2026: Fellows Announced
11 to 12 April 2026: Opening Weekend (in-person)
1 April to 19 June 2026: Reporting Period and Consultations
20 June 2026: Final Showcase
28 June 2026: Final Submission of Project
HOW TO APPLY
Applicants must complete the application form in either English or Bahasa Melayu.
The application consists of one written question (200–300 words):
​
What issue, question or narrative are you trying to explore or challenge in your reporting on race, religion or identity in Malaysia?
In your response, you may wish to address:
-
why this issue matters now
-
who you are writing for
-
the form your reporting might take
-
what you already know and what you still need to find out
You do not need to have a fully developed pitch. The Fellowship is interested in how you think about reporting, the questions you are drawn to and how you approach complex issues.
FAQ
Is there an age limit? Can I apply if I am over 30?
There is no strict age limit. The Fellowship is open to journalists at different stages of their careers, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
Can I apply if I am a freelancer?
Yes, as long as you have a clear pathway to publication through a recognised newsroom.
Is this a full-time programme?
No. The Fellowship is designed to run alongside existing newsroom commitments.
​
How many Fellows will be selected?
We plan to select 5-6 Fellows.
Do I need my editor’s approval to apply?
No.
What counts as a project?
Projects must be journalistic in nature and focused on reporting. Examples include:
-
Investigative or explanatory reporting
-
Long-form features
-
A short reporting series on a related theme
What does not count as a project?
-
Starting an organisation or platform
-
Advocacy campaigns or election-related content
-
Workshops, forums, or events
What is the focus or angle of the Fellowship?
The Fellowship specifically supports reporting on race, religion, governance and inequality in Malaysia.
Will there be financial support?
Yes. Each Fellow will receive a RM 3,000 writing grant to support the reporting and writing process during the Fellowship period.
​
What support will Fellows receive beyond funding?
Fellows receive:
-
Editorial mentorship from senior journalists
-
Structured feedback and consultation sessions
-
Training during the Opening Weekend
-
Support for professional growth and long-term reporting practice
Where will the Opening Weekend be held?
The location in Kuala Lumpur will be confirmed and shared with selected Fellows.
I still have questions. Who can I contact?
Please email davina@aodmalaysia.org for further information.