What is the Global Investigative Journalism Conference?
Every two years since 2001, the world’s investigative journalism community has joined together in a different city, and the results have been extraordinary. The GIJCs are giant training conferences, with practical panels and workshops on the latest investigative techniques, data analysis, cross-border collaboration, and more by the best journalists in the field. Our conferences have trained thousands of journalists from all regions and resulted in the founding of investigative teams, nonprofit newsrooms, and headline-making stories around the world.
The 2025 Global Investigative Journalism Conference (#GIJC25) is brought to you by the Global Investigative Journalism Network (GIJN), and Malaysiakini.
Where and when is the conference?
The 2025 Global Investigative Journalism Conference (#GIJC25) is scheduled for November 20 – 24 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The conference venue is the world-class Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. The conference will begin with an evening welcome reception on November 20 and end in the early afternoon on November 24.
On Thursday 20th (6pm to 8pm) we’ll host our welcome reception, as we greet our guests from around the world. The main conference program starts on Friday, Nov. 21 at 9am, and it ends on Monday, Nov. 24 at 12.30pm.
A pre-conference day on Thursday 20th will feature workshops and special classes. All pre-conference sessions are by invitation only. Activities that day are scheduled between 10am to 4pm, and some sessions will start at 9am.
Finally, on Sunday 23rd we will have a Banquet and Awards Night, concluding with the announcement of the Global Shining Light Award winners.
Who will be the speakers and what can we expect?
We’ll be hosting many of the world’s top investigative reporters, editors, producers, and data journalists, as well as key resource people on freedom of information, media law, security, and teaching. We expect over 150 panels, keynotes, workshops, and networking sessions. More to come on this later.
What are the conference special events?
Beyond the inspiring sessions and knowledge sharing, GIJC25 is also about building connections, celebrating courageous journalism, and experiencing the rich culture of our host city. On Thursday, November 20, from 6pm to 9pm, don’t miss our welcome reception – an evening of light bites, local flavors, and great conversation in a relaxed setting. On Friday, November 21, join us for social networking drinks at the Traders Hotel SkyBar and take in stunning views of the KLCC Twin Towers; arrive early, as capacity is limited to 200 guests at a time.
During the lunch breaks on Friday and Saturday (November 21 & 22), enjoy a specially curated cultural showcase that highlights Malaysia’s vibrant heritage. Finally, on Sunday, November 23, we’ll cap the conference with our Banquet and Awards Night, beginning at 6pm – a seated dinner featuring cultural performances and the reveal of this year’s winners of the Global Shining Light Award — which honor investigative journalism carried out under extraordinary circumstances.
Can I attend the Pre-Conference Day sessions on November 20th?
The Pre-Conference Day takes place Thursday, November 20, on the 4th floor of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) – the main conference venue. Sessions begin at 9am or 10am and will conclude in time for the Welcome Reception at 6pm. These sessions are by invitation only and have limited capacity. For select workshops, registered conference attendees with relevant experience may register their interest — organizers may reach out if your background fits the intended audience and there are slots available.
How can I register?
You can register via our Eventbrite page. The early bird registration fee (until sold out) is US$350 for an individual ticket and US$425 for a business ticket. (Business tickets are for media companies paying for their staff.) After the early bird period, the price will be US$385 for an individual ticket and US$475 for a business ticket. Read more about registration here. If you would like to learn about our fellowship program to attend the conference, check here.
How can I pay the conference fee?
Eventbrite will give you the option to pay with one of four credit cards (Mastercard, Visa, AMEX, or Discover) or with PayPal. Payment by bank transfers are available for groups of ten or more attendees. Please contact gijc25@gijn.org for requesting an invoice and further details on this group option. The registration page is here.
What does the conference fee include?
The fee includes full access to all conference panels, workshops and special sessions. It also covers lunches during full conference days, one cocktail reception (Thursday, Nov. 20), and an awards ceremony and dinner on the final night (Sunday, Nov. 23).
Is there financial assistance for journalists to attend?
Fellowship applications are now CLOSED. The deadline to apply for the GIJC25 Fellowship was February 14, 2025. Successful fellows will be notified via email by April 30, 2025.
To learn about future fellowship opportunities, be sure to subscribe to GIJN’s fortnightly newsletter.
How can I become a sponsor?
The GIJC is possible because of sponsors large and small, including foundations, news media, NGOs, schools and training centers, companies, and individuals. We raise hundreds of thousands of dollars to bring talented journalists from around the world to these events, and we need your support. Here’s a chance to support the “special forces” of journalism on the front lines of battling crime, corruption, abuse of trust, and lack of accountability. See the list of sponsors for our last conference here.
If you are interested in becoming a co-sponsor, please contact:
International: Karen Martin, GIJN / karen.martin@gijn.org
Malaysia: Premesh Chandran, Malaysiakini / prem@malaysiakini.com
How can I become an exhibitor?
Want to get your company’s products and services in front of 1,500 of the world’s most enterprising journalists? Join us as an exhibitor at the 2025 Global Investigative Journalism Conference (#GIJC25). You will find yourself surrounded by professional journalists and newsroom leaders seeking the best tools to help them conduct, publish, and broadcast their investigations. Send us an email at gijc25@gijn.org to inquire further.
What is the code of conduct for the conference?
The Global Investigative Journalism Network and Malaysiakini are committed to providing a welcoming and harassment-free environment for participants of all races, gender identity, sexual orientation, physical abilities, physical appearances, and beliefs. We believe a clear code of conduct builds a respectful and safe community space. Discrimination, sexual harassment, or other inappropriate conduct will not be tolerated and will be grounds for expulsion from the conference. You can read here our code of conduct.
What is the dress code for the conference?
Dress code for the GIJC is casual. (Hey, we’re journalists…) Jeans, shoes or sneakers, shirts or t-shirts are all okay. You might want to dress up for the award ceremony dinner on Monday evening.
Where do I stay during the conference?
We are currently working to secure special rates at a number of quality hotels in the city for #GIJC25 attendees. A selection of hotels is available here.
What about public transportation from the airport to your hotel?
Do I need a visa to enter Malaysia?
Requirements for visitors’ visas differ from country to country. Be sure to review whether you need a visa to enter Malaysia. If your country is not listed as a visa exempt country, you should make inquiries at your nearest Malaysian embassy or consulate — and allow plenty of time to apply and get your visa. Here is the official website of the Malaysian embassies and consulates.
Effective January 1, 2024, all travelers must complete the Malaysian Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) within three (3) days prior to their scheduled arrival in Malaysia except for certain categories like permanent residents and diplomatic passport holders. Find more detailed information on visas and the digital arrival card here.
What is the currency used in Malaysia?
The official currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, it’s essential to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases, tipping, and transactions in local markets. ATMs are readily available in urban areas, airports, and major transportation hubs, allowing you to withdraw MYR as needed. Be aware of potential fees associated with international ATM withdrawals and notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage. Money changers can be found throughout the country, offering competitive exchange rates for foreign currencies like USD, GBP, and EUR. To ensure the best value, it’s advisable to compare rates at several money changers before making an exchange. Read more about currency here.
Where can I get local information?
Currency
The official currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, it’s essential to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases, tipping, and transactions in local markets. ATMs are readily available in urban areas, airports, and major transportation hubs, allowing you to withdraw MYR as needed. Be aware of potential fees associated with international ATM withdrawals and notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage. Money changers can be found throughout the country, offering competitive exchange rates for foreign currencies like USD, GBP, and EUR. To ensure the best value, it’s advisable to compare rates at several money changers before making an exchange. Read more about currency here.
Language
The official language is Bahasa Malaysia, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Electricity
In Malaysia, the primary plug type used is Type G. This plug features three rectangular pins arranged in a triangular pattern. Other types such as A, C, and M may occasionally be found, but Type G is the most common.
Voltage and Frequency
Voltage: The standard voltage in Malaysia is 240 V.
Frequency: The frequency of the electrical supply is 50 Hz.
Adapter and Converter Requirements
Power Adapter: If your devices do not have a Type G plug, you will need a travel adapter to fit your plug into Malaysian sockets.
Voltage Converter: If your devices are rated for a lower voltage (e.g., 100-127 V), you will require a voltage converter to prevent damage. Devices that support a voltage range of 100-240 V can be used without a converter, but you still need the appropriate adapter.
WiFi / Mobile
We will provide free WiFi for the duration of the conference in all the venues. The main telecom operators in Malaysia are CelcomDigi, Maxis, Umobile, and Tune Talk. Prepaid SIM cards can be easily purchased at airports, shopping malls, and convenience stores. For short-term visitors to Malaysia, there are traveller SIM card packages available.
Weather & What to Wear
Kuala Lumpur has a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by high humidity and temperatures averaging 30°C (86°F) year-round. Rain is common so you may want to have a retractable umbrella handy. You can get updates on the weather forecast here.
Dress code for the GIJC is casual. Jeans, shoes or sneakers, shirts or t-shirts are all okay. You might want to dress up for the award ceremony dinner. It can get chilly inside air-conditioned buildings. We recommend bringing a warm, waterproof jacket.
Health
In case of a medical emergency call 999.
Here are the approximate distances of nearby pharmacies, clinics and Hospitals from KLCC:
| Medical Service | Distance from KLCC | Website Link | Contact Number | Opening Hours |
| Twin Towers Medical Clinic | 0 km (inside KLCC) | ttmc.com.my | +03 2382 3577 | Mon-Fri: 8:30am – 5:30pm |
| Hibari Clinic KLCC | 0.5 km | hibariclinic.com | +03 2022 4919 | Mon-Fri: 9am – 1pm, 2pm – 6pm |
| Health Lane Family Pharmacy KLCC | 0 km (inside KLCC) | healthlane.com.my | N/A | Mon-Sun: 10am – 10pm |
| Gleneagles Hospital | 1 km | gleneagles.com.my | +603 4141 3000 | 24 hours |
| Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur | 3 km | pantai.com.my | +603 2296 0888 | 24 hours |
| He Medical Clinic @ Publika | 3 km | hemedicalclinic.com | +603 6419 9119 | Mon-Sat: 9am – 9pm |
