From Ashraf Abdullah
The man with the golden voice, aka Raymond Goh, or the “Night Owl” as he was fondly known among colleagues, is no more.
According to family members, Raymond, the longest serving television news presenter in the Media Prima Group, breathed his last yesterday morning after suffering a massive stroke on Aug 30.
No one really knows who gave him the nickname “Night Owl”, but the reason is obvious. He mostly read Nightline on TV3 which is aired at midnight. If one were to leave the office before 10pm, one would probably miss seeing him walking casually into the newsroom, greeting everyone he saw.
I knew Raymond much earlier, but I got closer to him when I joined Media Prima’s TV Networks in 2009. He had a unique ability to connect with people, making everyone feel like a friend.
Raymond, whose Muslim name is Zaman Goh Abdullah, was known not only for his articulate delivery but also for his deep empathy and commitment to accuracy.
He earned the respect of colleagues because he would go through news scripts meticulously, before going on air. He was quick to point out errors, factual or grammatical. He wasn’t a trained journalist, but like one, he read and kept abreast of world affairs.
Raymond had an unwavering commitment to quality news presentation and genuine concern for young, aspiring readers. And because of this, he even volunteered to scout for them and train them until they were ready to go on air.
Many of the young readers in Media Prima today are the products of his labour. He was a strict taskmaster, no doubt, but he was also always there to lend a helping hand and offer words of encouragement.
Raymond left a legacy that would be remembered by colleagues, viewers, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His passion for news, his warm spirit, and his ability to inspire others would continue to resonate within us.
As we mourn the loss of our dear colleague, let us find solace in our memories of Raymond, who touched our lives in profound ways.
I enjoyed the many conversations that we had over coffee and cigarettes, mostly on politics. I admired his staunch and catholic views on nationalism and his concerns for the nation, most of which I shared.
May Allah, the Most Merciful, grant Raymond peace, forgiveness, and the highest place in Jannah. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. May they find strength and comfort in the love and support of their friends and colleagues.
Verily, from Allah we come, and to Him, we shall return.
Thank you, Raymond, for sharing your incredible journey with us. You may be gone, but the memory of you will linger. - FMT
Ashraf Abdullah is a former group managing editor of Media Prima Television Networks.
The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.
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