Fourth Academy > Blog > Alumni Feature August 2024: Wong Mee Fong
Fourth creators alumni feature:
Wong Mee Fong
Every month, we spotlight a Fourth Creators alumni to share their journey into content creation, journalism, or simply an intriguing story.
This month, we’re excited to feature Wong Mee Fong, a former seasonal podcaster at Astro Radio and a Human Resources (HR) expert.
Interview by Tanish Tanjil
Hi Mee Fong! Can you tell us about yourself?
Mee Fong: Hi! I’m Mee Fong. I have more than two decades of experience in talent and people management functions with international executive search consulting firms, world-class tech organisations covering the APAC region, and large MNCs in Malaysia.
My career has spanned various roles and industries, but my passion has always been centered around HR and talent development.
I was a seasonal podcaster at Astro Radio and I love creating content that resonates with my audience and makes a real difference, whether it’s through my podcast, writing, or graphic content on Instagram.
What got you started in content creation?
Mee Fong: My journey into content creation happened quite by accident. I have always loved writing and sharing my thoughts on LinkedIn about issues I’m passionate about, but I never saw myself as a “content creator.”
That changed when Astro Radio approached me to create business content. Given my specialisation and expertise in HR and Talent, it was a new and exciting opportunity. I realized that I could use my knowledge and experience to create meaningful content that could educate and inspire others.
Can you share some of your favorite projects that you’re really proud of?
Mee Fong: That’s a tough choice because I love what I do and I do what I love. This is the first-ever HR podcast in Malaysia and we released 2 seasons so far!
However, if I had to pick a few, it would be some key HR topics we covered in the #WORKAROUND podcast. Some of my favorite episodes tackled important issues such as beyond salary compensation, workplace mental health (psychological safety), and even an episode in Bahasa Malaysia edition.
Despite English being the primary language in Malaysian corporate environments, diversifying our content was a rewarding experience.
One of my other favorite moments was creating community-driven, relatable content that had a significant impact.
Although our focus isn’t commercially driven, expanding across Southeast Asian markets has been rewarding. Seeing viewers watch our videos and take action is incredibly fulfilling.
Our content aims to generate impact rather than just commercial gains, and it’s heartwarming to know that it resonates with our audience.
One particular moment that stands out is when we received feedback from listeners who were inspired to make positive changes in their workplaces after listening to our podcast. It’s moments like these that make all the hard work worthwhile.
Mee Fong’s Podcast with Dr Ong Kian Ming
What have been some challenges you’ve faced along the way as a podcaster?
Mee Fong: It’s been tough aligning our ideas with what the market wants. Sometimes, what I think is great isn’t what people want. Getting credibility and attracting guests was hard when our show was new.
I learned from rejection and kept focused on educating and raising awareness, not just getting popularity.
Staying focused in what I do and be positive helped me stay confident, even in a field that cares a lot about fame and followers.
As a HR professional, do you find it useful to join training programmes on media and content creation?
Mee Fong: I had no media training until I joined a workshop with the Fourth Academy. I attended their events twice, including the Connect and Create Mixer: Raya Edition, where I learned about creating meaningful impact as responsible citizens.
A recap of Connect & Create Mixer: Raya Edition held in April 2024.
This event stood out as I met representatives from the Orang Asli community, refugees, and people with disabilities. It made me reflect on my corporate and community contributions, sparking a passion-driven initiative in the public sphere.
Engaging with diverse communities taught me the value of purposely content creation over mere output.
What do you see as the future of HR journalism in Malaysia?
Mee Fong: The future of HR journalism in Malaysia involves giving more insights and opportunities to local talent in diverse areas to gain exposure and visibility.
Unfortunately, many talented individuals are not given the chance to shine or they go abroad.
My goal in HR journalism is to showcase the potential of the opportunities and ready talent through our podcast and other platforms. We need to focus on doing it for the quality, not for the benefit.
The issue isn’t a lack of good talent in Malaysia; it’s that many talented individuals are not given the opportunities they deserve.
Currently there is no specific local media that focusing on this important area. I still so much potential in our market.
HR journalism is the key avenue to showcase the talent eco system at national level, insights, knowledge sharing and also to allow our diverse workforce at all levels to be exposed more to the business world and vice versa.
There are many areas of expertise among our local talent that need to be showcased to address the myth of “there is lack of good talent in local market”.
Finally, what advice would you give to people who want to make a difference through content creation?
Mee Fong: Our society needs more responsible citizens who spread positive ideas and authentic educational content. Have your voice heard in a posh and subtle way rather than striving for overnight virality.
- Be Original and Create Trends: Don’t stress yourself too much. While we can be inspired by others, we shouldn’t copy their work. Create trends rather than be the trend follower.
- Right Intentions and Responsibility: Aim to uplift your community in a progressive manner, which is what I call impact. Be responsible, as the younger generation spends a lot of time online. If you want to be a young advocate, ensure you set a good example for them.
- Lifelong Learning: Be a lifelong learner. Keep reading, learning, and developing your skills. Quality content comes from well-read and educated journalists who ask insightful questions.
By adhering to these principles, you can make a meaningful impact and inspire others.
[Mee Fong’s #1 HR Expert tip: In a competitive world, your unique experience, success and failure of your projects and thought process would set you apart. Equip yourself with transferable skills, set a high level of curiosity in your work and environment and having high learning agility are crucial too. Always be prepared to sell your skill and ideas authentically during the interview.]
Follow Mee Fong’s journey here.
We’ll be featuring a Fourth Creators Alumni in every monthly newsletter. If you’d like to nominate someone, including yourself, please get in touch with us by emailing us at academy@thefourth.media.