Malaysiakini’s board of directors has appointed Andrew Ong as the organisation’s editor-in-chief, effective Aug 10.

Ong succeeds co-founder Steven Gan, filling the position that has remained vacant since Jan 27, 2023.

Ong has been with Malaysiakini in various capacities since 2003, beginning his career as a newsroom intern and most recently serving as product lead.

In his new role, he will focus on strengthening Malaysiakini’s core commitment to editorial independence while driving strategic initiatives centred on long-term financial sustainability, audience development, and digital innovation.

He will oversee total newsroom governance, direct the core editorial agenda, and lead Malaysiakini’s multi-platform strategy into its next phase of growth.

Gan, who is also a board member, said Ong was the ideal leader in the changing media landscape.

“In today’s media landscape, uncompromising editorial independence and cutting-edge digital product delivery must go hand in hand.

“Ong’s vision, tech-driven expertise, and commitment to public-interest journalism make him the ideal leader to guide our newsroom forward,” he said.

Ong said he was honoured to lead Malaysiakini at such a transformative time.

“Our newsroom has earned the public’s trust through decades of fearless, independent reporting.

“I look forward to working alongside our dedicated editorial team to deepen our impact, expand our reach, and build a sustainable future for independent journalism in Malaysia,” he said.