On 13th January, Telum Media hosted a Telum Talks To session with CNA.id in Jakarta, offering participants a behind-the-scenes look at how the newsroom shapes coverage for audiences in Indonesia and across Asia.

The morning discussion featured Kor Kian Beng, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, alongside Editors Denny Armandhanu and Amanda Puspita Sari, and was moderated by Telum Media’s Olivia Mayer.



Participants gained a closer understanding of CNA.id’s editorial approach, from identifying strong story angles to ensuring coverage reflects local context while remaining relevant to wider regional and global conversations. Speakers also shared examples of Indonesian stories that gained broader traction when aligned with themes shaping Southeast Asia and beyond.

The session also explored how PR professionals can strengthen engagement with editorial teams through timely, relevant pitching and by building long-term, mutually beneficial relationships.

The discussion concluded with a Q&A and a networking session, giving attendees an opportunity to engage directly with the speakers and connect with industry peers.

SXSW Sydney has announced that its edition of South by Southwest (SXSW) will not proceed in 2026, concluding its annual run from 2023 to 2025. The organisation said the decision reflects a changing global environment impacting major events, festivals, and cultural programs worldwide.
 
Despite efforts by SXSW Sydney, in collaboration with the NSW Government and SXSW's global owners, Penske Media Corporation, to explore potential pathways forward, prevailing market conditions mean the Sydney edition will not go ahead at this time.

SXSW Sydney stated that it is committed to its staff and will be working closely with team members to provide appropriate support.
 
SXSW Sydney's Co-Managing Directors, Simon Cahill and Jono Whyman, said: "SXSW Sydney would not have been possible without our partners, Destination NSW and SXSW, as well as those who contributed to the event - our speakers, sponsors, volunteers and attendees. SXSW Sydney was an unforgettable three-year journey, and we owe a debt of gratitude to the people who joined us for it.
 
"We are especially grateful to the SXSW Sydney team for their dedication and hard work in bringing this event to life and establishing a platform that showcased Australia and the Asia-Pacific as pioneers in global culture."

SW Strategies has been appointed the official communications partner for Buds Theatre, a non-profit organisation focused on developing creative talent and producing arts across Southeast Asia. The engagement will run on a pro bono basis for 12 months, until December 2026.

Under the partnership, the agency provides communications and media relations support for Buds Theatre’s initiatives in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam, with a focus on strengthening public visibility, stakeholder engagement and regional reach.