KUCHING, 4 May 2025 – Sarawak bids farewell to one of its most respected journalists and historians, James Ritchie, who passed away yesterday. His death marks the end of an era in local journalism, where his words, stories, and dedication painted the soul of Sarawak for over five decades.
Ritchie, who was honoured with the Journalism Award during Hari Wartawan Nasional (HAWANA) 2024, leaves behind a lasting legacy as a chronicler of Sarawak’s journey—from its rich cultural diversity to its evolving political landscape.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS), Datuk Abdullah Saidol, expressed his condolences and described Ritchie’s passing as a great loss not only to the media fraternity, but also to the preservation of Sarawak’s historical narrative.
“We have lost a very dedicated journalist. His contribution to writing and journalism in Sarawak is invaluable. He was a witness to countless historical events since the early 70s,” said Datuk Abdullah after paying his last respects at St Thomas Church in Kuching on Sunday.
Ritchie’s articles, columns, and books are considered essential reading material for those seeking to understand the heartbeat of Sarawak. Datuk Abdullah proposed that his writings be preserved in university libraries across the country, saying, “This is the legacy that should live on for future generations.”
It was also revealed that Ritchie was working on a final book before his passing, intended as a personal dedication to the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar.
Though born in Penang, James Ritchie grew up in Sarawak where his father once served as the state’s Police Chief. Over the years, he fully embraced Sarawak as his home, even serving as a Public Relations Officer in the Chief Minister’s Office.
“Although he was not originally from Sarawak, no one can question his loyalty and service to the state,” added Datuk Abdullah.
His wife, who hails from Melaka, and their children also call Sarawak home—further cementing the family’s deep roots in the state.
James Ritchie will be remembered not just as a veteran journalist, but as Sarawak’s Grand Historian—a storyteller who captured the essence of the Land of the Hornbills through his lens and pen. His voice may be gone, but his stories will continue to inspire. — UKAS EDITION
