Double victory: Tung (centre) receiving the gold award in the Best Climate Infographics category from WAN-IFRA Asia Director Lee Kah Whye (left) and President Director for Bisnis Indonesia Group, Lulu Terianto.
SMG recognised for outstanding visual storytelling at WAN-IFRA Awards 2025
SINGAPORE: Star Media Group (SMG) has earned recognition for excellence in visual storytelling, taking home two honours at the WAN-IFRA Asian Media Awards 2025.
The Star won first prize in the Best Climate Infographics category for “The Invasion of Plastics”, an in-depth visual exploration of the microplastics cycle in the environment.
It also clinched second place in the Best Cover Design category for “Dangerous Drugs in Vapes”, a deep dive into the hazardous world of vape addiction.
The awards were received by The Star’s executive editor of content design, Tung Eng Hwa.
SMG chief content officer Datin Paduka Esther Ng said the wins would inspire The Star’s team to keep pushing forward.
The cover that won second place in the Best Cover Design category for ‘Dangerous Drugs in Vapes’.
“I’m so proud of our team. Climate issues have always been an important pillar for us at SMG, and being selected as one of the top two in the region for best cover design and climate infographic is humbling,” she said. “These wins will only spur us on.”
Tung said the recognition affirmed The Star’s commitment as a mainstream media organisation to educate and raise awareness among the public, especially the younger generation, through impactful visual storytelling.
“The award is a direct recognition of our impactful ‘The Invasion of Plastics’ infographic,” he said.
“It is also a testament to the powerful teamwork within our newsroom.
“Reporters, editors and designers collaborated effectively to craft compelling stories and award-winning designs.”
Organised by the World Association of News Publishers (WAN-IFRA), the Asian Media Awards has celebrated outstanding achievements in news publishing across the Asia-Pacific region since its inception in 2009.
