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For most people, the idea of leaving home in their late thirties to start over in a foreign country sounds like a terrifying gamble. But for Malaysian journalist Cecilia Victor, it was the only way forward.
After 15 years in Malaysia’s fast paced media industry, she packed her bags, left everything familiar behind and moved to Cambodia to take on one of the biggest roles of her career.
She now serves as an Executive Editor at one of Cambodia’s prominent media organisations, where she oversees the overall editorial direction.
Her journey is not just about career ambition. It is a story about courage, faith and the kind of self belief you only discover when life pushes you to choose between comfort and growth.
Aspired to be a music journalist
Growing up, Cecilia dreamed of writing for world famous music magazines. She imagined a life filled with concerts, album reviews and interviews with artists she admired.
Instead, life led her to political news and the Malaysian newsroom grind. “There are no regrets, except for the occasional one,” she said.
Cecilia’s journalism career officially began when she was staying with her aunt in Melbourne and a seasoned editor offered her a freelance writing opportunity. Two months later, she landed a full-time role at Malay Mail.
That is where everything started. Fourteen years later, I suddenly felt the need to work abroad again.”
Stagnancy and a new opportunity
Despite building a solid career as a journalist, sub-editor and online news editor in Malaysia, a feeling began to grow quietly during her mid to late thirties.
As much as Cecilia loved her country and the work she did, she felt a sense of stagnancy in her career.
“I wanted a different kind of professional growth. But at that point in my life, Malaysia could not offer it.
“Still, moving abroad wasn’t a simple decision. I had my mother and responsibilities to think about. Moreover, I was afraid that everything might fall apart if I stepped out of my comfort zone,” she said.
So Cecilia began looking only at opportunities within the region so that she could fly home quickly if anything untoward happened.
Not long after, an offer came from a respected media company in Cambodia, where she was invited to join them as an Executive Editor, where it required leadership, innovation, vision and courage to reshape an entire editorial department.
It was a role completely different from anything I did before. But I decided to challenge myself. I told myself to take the risk.”
Many assumed that Cecilia took a career break to pursue her Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree, but reality was far different.
“I worked full time in the Malaysian newsroom while studying part time. Weekends belonged to assignments and textbooks. The subject matter felt foreign to me since I came from a pure media background.
“It was intensely intense, but the MBA ended up helping me so much. I apply the managerial skills in my work now. Sometimes I fail, but it is all part of the learning.”
Fighting for visibility & dealing with culture shock
When asked about the challenges she faced as a woman in media, Cecilia did not sugarcoat it.
You have to work twice as hard as your male counterparts. Recognition does not come easily. Nobody is kind to you in this industry. You are expected to deliver regardless.”
She still faces these challenges today. But what keeps her grounded is her conviction, her faith and the mentors who believed in her capability.
“God has been really gracious to me. I am humbled by the people who have guided me. I am still learning every single day.”
After spending most of her career in Malaysia, Cecilia was surprised by how different things felt in Cambodia.
“Malaysia’s news cycle never stops. Something is always happening. There is no such thing as a slow day. Cambodia is much calmer….at least until major events strike.
“It is very situational here. When things happen, they happen big. Like the Thai-Cambodia border conflict. That is when it becomes intense,” she noted.
Many young journalists dream of working overseas and so did Cecilia. But now that she is living the reality, she wants them to know the truth.
“It takes a lot of guts. The loneliness is real. The language barrier is real. The struggle of finding housing, affordable groceries, traffic routes, healthcare, everything is real.”
“The first few months are difficult as you lose the comfort of familiar faces and routines. You question your decision and doubt yourself. But slowly, things will get better.
“You join expat groups. You make friends. You get into a routine. Most importantly, you give yourself grace. Moving out of your comfort zone is already so brave. Looking at it positively can turn it into the most rewarding experience.”
Her biggest achievement
When asked what she considers her greatest milestone, Cecilia gave a rather unconventional answer: the fact that she stayed 15 years in the media.
Success to me is being happy, fulfilled and healthy. You need a healthy body to fulfil your dreams.
“It’s a simple definition, but it’s one that comes from 15 years of long nights, pressure, deadlines and burnout.
Cecilia also shared a message she hopes young Malaysians will hold close to their hearts.
“Life is worth the risk. If you do not do something you always wanted to do, you will never be at peace. If you have the means, go for it. And if it does not work out, it is alright. At least you tried.”
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