BenarNews is an online news service affiliated with Radio Free Asia (RFA) that reports in Bengali, Thai, Bahasa Malaysia, Bahasa Indonesia and English, on pressing topics such as human rights, freedom of expression, conflict, climate change, politics and geopolitics.

We are looking for a skilled and passionate Video Journalist to produce compelling and factual news content for our BenarNews Malay website and social media platforms. This is a full-time based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and reports to the Head of Video in Washington DC. 

Story Identification and Research:

• Identify newsworthy stories and potential subjects for news, features and documentaries.
• Research and gather information on the chosen topics, including background, context, and relevant data.

Field Reporting:

• Cover live events and breaking news as required.
• Conduct pre-interviews and interviews with individuals involved in the story, including experts, witnesses, and sources.
• Capture video footage and images using cameras and other equipment.
• Record audio and ambient sound to accompany the video.

Scriptwriting:

• Write video scripts in the BenarNews video format before editing the video, to revise the script according to feedback.
• Tailor the script to the intended audience and platform.
• To translate the script into English if needed.

Video Editing:

• Edit the video according to the video script, and revise the video edit according to feedback.
• Incorporate visuals like graphics, animation, photos, and charts when necessary.
• Add voiceovers or on-screen text as needed.

Ethics and Accuracy:

• Adhere to RFA/BenarNews’ ethical journalism standards, including fact-checking and unbiased reporting.
• Verify information from multiple sources to ensure accuracy and fairness.

Collaboration:

• Work closely with Head of Video to coordinate coverage and storytelling.
• Collaborate with multimedia teams to create engaging and interactive content for online platforms.

Adaptation to Platforms:

• Tailor video content for various platforms, such as websites and social media; Optimize videos for mobile devices and different screen sizes.

Continuous Learning:

• Stay up-to-date with the latest video production techniques and technologies.; Attend training sessions or workshops to improve skills.

Safety:

• Follow safety protocols and guidelines, ensure personal safety and the safety of the crew while covering events in the field.

• Bachelor's degree in journalism, film, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of professional experience in video journalism, working in a reputable news media organization.
• Proficiency with Adobe Premiere Pro and Photoshop.
• High level of production capabilities – filming with DSLRs, setting up audio and lighting
• Excellent ability to  write video scripts in Malay and in English
• Familiar with social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and using social media analytics to drive content creation. 
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Ability to meet tight deadlines,  effectively manage time while shooting, editing, and delivering video stories.
• Fluent in Malay  and English, an effective communicator in both languages. 
• Strong news judgment and journalism ethics
• Willing to work outside of business hours to collaborate with colleagues in Washington D.C.