Odleen Catherny: a name synonymous with achievement and dedication. As a reporter and anchor at the general desk, Odleen’s journey from her Bidayuh roots in Bau, Sarawak, to becoming the beacon of excellence in the field stands as a testament to her unparalleled achievements.
A pivotal moment in the industry came with the launch of TVS, the pioneering state-owned television venture managed by Sarawak Media Group (SMG) in October 2020. Odleen’s unwavering dedication earned her the esteemed Grit Award in 2021, a nod to her resilience and passion in the face of challenges.
As the eldest daughter among four siblings, Odleen’s early life bore witness to her leadership and determination. Her journey in journalism has been nothing short of remarkable, marked by an impressive array of accolades.
Recognised at both state and national levels, she secured the Gold Award in the Sustainability Journalism Award Broadcast Section in 2022 for her impactful report titled “Penyu Agar Kembali Ke Taman Negara Similajau.” Her adeptness in uncovering the nuances of business and economics led her to clinch the Silver Award for the report “Air Terjun Lusong Laku: Tujuh Jam Yang Berbaloi and Potensi Ekonomi, Pendidikan Di Lusong Laku.” These distinguished awards were bestowed upon her at the Kenyalang Journalism Award 2022, cementing her as a formidable force in the media landscape.
As the calendar turned to early 2023, Odleen’s prowess was further acknowledged with the first runner-up position for the Media Award by the Malaysian Society for Occupational Safety and Health (MSOSH). Her impactful report, “Cakna Pengendalian Elektrik, Elak Tragedi and Tindakan Pantas, Mampu Selamatkan Nyawa,” not only showcased her investigative skills but also highlighted her commitment to public safety.
Yet, beyond her professional pursuits, Odleen’s vibrant spirit finds solace in the arts, indulging in her passions for singing and dancing during her cherished moments of leisure. She artfully engages on various social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter. A guiding maxim that encapsulates her philosophy comes from none other than Celine Dion: “Life imposes things on you that you can’t control, but you still have the choice of how you’re going to live through this.”
Odleen earned her Diploma in Electronic Engineering (Communication) from Polytechnic Kuching, Sarawak, and embarked on a career at TVS in 2018, a time when the digital landscape was still evolving. Never content with the status quo, Odleen embraced the challenge of pursuing higher education, enrolling in a part-time Bachelor of Communication with Honours program from Open University Malaysia (OUM). In 2022, she proudly graduated, showcasing her relentless pursuit of knowledge.
