KUCHING, May 3 — Veteran journalist James Alexander Ritchie, better known as James Ritchie, died at the Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) today. He was 75.

The passing of James was confirmed by Datuk Seri Robert Jacob Ridu, a former Sarawak State Assembly Speaker and a family member.

“We are saddened to inform you that veteran journalist Mr James Ritchie, who is also a family to me, has gone to be with the Lord. He passed away peacefully at SGH today. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” he said in a short statement to the media here.

James was awarded the National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) 2024 Award in a celebration held here last year.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim presented the award to James, who has dedicated over five decades to journalism since 1971.

Starting as a cadet journalist at The Straits Times in the federal capital at the age of 23, James slowly climbed the career ladder in the journalism industry, particularly in Sarawak.

Among the positions he has held are Sarawak New Straits Times journalist in 1981, Public Relations Officer at the Sarawak Chief Minister’s Department (1998), and Media Consultant for Sarawak Digest (2022).

His other positions include special writer at Sarawak Tribune in 2022, Editorial Advisor and Executive Director at Eastern Times (2006), and Executive Director at New Sarawak Tribune (2010).

His significant contributions to writing and journalism have earned him much recognition, including the Shell Kenyalang Gold Award, AZAM Press Award, and Ang Lai Soon Gold Award. — Bernama