Applications Open for Fully Funded Air Pollution and Health Media Workshop in Malaysia

Journalists and media professionals from South and Southeast Asia have an opportunity to strengthen their reporting skills on climate, environmental and public health issues through a fully funded regional training programme scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in July 2026.

The two-day Capacity Development and Training Workshop Series for Media Professionals: Air Pollution and Health will be held on July 13–14, 2026, at Sunway University. The programme is being organized by the Global Climate and Health Alliance, the Global Strategic Communications Council and the Sunway Centre for Planetary Health.

The workshop aims to equip journalists with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively report on the growing links between air pollution, climate change and human health. Through expert-led discussions, collaborative learning sessions and practical exercises, participants will gain a deeper understanding of planetary health challenges and learn how to communicate complex scientific issues in a clear, accurate and engaging manner.

Organizers say the training will focus on developing solutions-oriented journalism, ethical reporting practices and stronger engagement with scientists, policymakers and affected communities. Participants will also take part in a simulation exercise designed to replicate real-world reporting scenarios related to environmental and health issues.

In addition to skill-building sessions, the workshop will offer networking opportunities for journalists from across South and Southeast Asia. Participants will be encouraged to exchange experiences, build professional connections and explore opportunities for regional collaboration.

Following the programme, attendees will become part of a Community of Practice, where they can share resources, discuss reporting challenges, access the latest research and support one another in covering climate and health-related stories.

The workshop is open to working journalists, both staff and freelance, with recent bylines and a demonstrated interest in environmental or health journalism. Applicants must submit two to three relevant work samples and commit to publishing at least one article or equivalent media output within six weeks of the workshop.

Selected participants will receive full funding covering international airfare, local travel within Malaysia, accommodation from July 12 to 14, and meals during the programme. Priority will be given to applicants from ASEAN member countries, although journalists from South Asia and a limited number from East Asia are also eligible to apply.