What’s ‘The Level’?
I’ve put off writing this introduction until the very last second, because this is when it finally feels real.
In a nutshell, The Level is a brand new youth portal from your leading independent news source, FMT. It is the result of the efforts of a group of twentysomething friends passionate about all the crazy things Malaysians have accomplished, from music, to sports, to science – and everything in between.
It is a love song for the wonderful people we have met who are dedicated to their craft; to the indomitable spirit of innovation and creativity that we see every day among fellow Malaysian youth. In the face of economic weakness, young Malaysians have been particularly aggressive in forging a path forward for ourselves – creating new jobs, businesses and opportunities. But there hasn’t been a big enough spotlight shone on what we’ve been doing, so The Level will highlight the best of what local youth have to offer.
More than that, The Level is about you. I can talk big ideas and concepts, but the simplest way to describe The Level is that it’s about your efforts, the sweat off your brow, your passions. The things you pursue for thankless hours because you love to. Your struggles. The challenges that you’ve faced, and how you overcame them – or even how you didn’t. If you have a story to tell, knowledge to share, or a cause to champion, The Level is yours.
The different levels of ‘The Level’
If you have something to say, head to our Soapbox – a readers’ column that welcomes submissions in Bahasa and English. If you’re a musician who’s come from nothing, we want to hear your story and tell it to the world. If you’re an athlete, we want people to know about your sweat and tears. If you’re an entrepreneur, we want to share your story so that others can be inspired into exploring new ways of creating a career. If you’re none of the above, but you have something to say, or a point to make, we want your voice.
We’ve also got lots of Video Content lined up, with original shows like ‘Malaysians Try’ and ‘Coffee With Ze’, the latter of which is an interview series with some of your favourite artists and interesting personalities. The premiere episode, which will be up for the site launch, features an in-depth interview with local artistes Sekumpulan Orang Gila, who expound on the meaning behind their excellent album, ‘Bahtera’, and the controversy they found themselves in upon the release of their song ‘Satu Melayu’ several years ago.
Much more is still in the pipeline, and we can’t wait to show you what we’ve got.
The Level was built on one mantra – “the youth for the youth”. If anything is to get better, it has to start with the youth.
So mark 1st March on your calendar – that’s when FMT officially launches The Level, accessible at www.thelevel.my. We’ve been working tirelessly (and sleeplessly) for months to bring The Level to life, and to you. The wait for us – and for you – is nearly over. See you soon.
Scott, Editor In Chief, The Level