Walter Sim of The Straits Times

Icons of Change Awards 2025

Mr. Walter Sim
Japan Correspondent of The Straits Times, Singapore
Chairperson of the Foreign Press in Japan (FPIJ)
Second Vice President of the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of Japan

SDG Focus: Sustainable Development Goal 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
Excellence in Global Journalism and International Media Diplomacy

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Advancing Truth Across Borders: Honoring Walter Sim for Elevating Public Discourse Through Responsible Global Journalism

In the complex, ever-evolving landscape of international relations and media, one constant remains vital: the pursuit of truth through responsible, fair, and courageous journalism. It is in this spirit that Mr. Walter Sim, Japan Correspondent for The Straits Times, is recognized as an Icon of Change 2025 for his enduring contributions to the values of transparency, justice, and institutional accountability—values which are foundational to Sustainable Development Goal 16.

Since his appointment as The Straits Times’ Tokyo-based correspondent, Mr. Sim has demonstrated a deep-seated commitment to promoting international understanding through nuanced and balanced reporting. His coverage spans a wide breadth of topics—from Japan’s domestic political transformations and imperial transitions, to economic diplomacy, climate adaptation, and pressing social issues such as population aging, equity, and resilience in the face of national crises. His dedication to thorough, on-the-ground journalism is evident in the geographic and thematic scope of his work—having reported from every corner of Japan, from Hokkaido to Okinawa, and even beyond, with a rare and insightful reporting assignment in North Korea.

In an era marked by information overload and geopolitical tensions, Mr. Sim’s ability to present critical developments with clarity, cultural sensitivity, and analytical depth has served as an essential bridge between nations, offering readers around the world a more informed, empathetic, and objective understanding of regional and global affairs. His work not only reflects journalistic excellence but also promotes the very pillars of peaceful, inclusive, and well-informed societies.

Beyond his professional reporting, Mr. Sim holds important leadership roles that amplify the voice and rights of foreign correspondents operating in Japan. In 2024, he was elected Chairperson of the Foreign Press in Japan (FPIJ)—an influential organization representing over 100 global media institutions. In this role, he champions improved access, ethical reporting standards, and collaborative media relations, ensuring that the international press community remains both robust and respected. Additionally, he serves as Second Vice President of the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of Japan, where he contributes to critical dialogues on press freedom and media ethics in one of Asia’s most vital information hubs.

These dual leadership appointments further reflect his stature not only as a journalist but as a diplomatic bridge-builder and advocate for media pluralism. His work meaningfully supports the aims of SDG 16 by promoting transparent institutions, encouraging accountability, and contributing to stable societies rooted in public trust and informed engagement.

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Icons of Change 2025 Recognition

The Icons of Change Awards 2025 proudly honors Mr. Walter Sim with the Excellence in Global Journalism and International Media Diplomacy Award, in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the advancement of peace, justice, and strong institutions through ethical journalism, cross-cultural understanding, and steadfast commitment to the public good.

His life’s work affirms that journalism—when practiced with discernment, courage, and integrity—is not merely a profession, but a public service of the highest order. Through every story told, every truth uncovered, and every community represented, Walter Sim continues to inspire a world where transparency prevails, and dialogue triumphs over division.

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