Jamaica: Veteran Broadcaster Dervan Malcolm Passes Away

The Jamaican media fraternity has experienced a significant loss with the passing of veteran broadcaster Dervan Malcolm on Thursday, following a prolonged illness. Malcolm was a notable figure in the media landscape, having begun his career in 1993 at Power 106 while still serving as head boy at Calabar High School.

Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness led the tributes, recalling Malcolm’s “calm, distinct and trusted voice.” He highlighted Malcolm’s contributions through his work at Power 106, particularly his program, Both Sides of the Story, which fostered meaningful discussions on important issues affecting Jamaicans both locally and in the diaspora. Holness expressed condolences to Malcolm’s family, friends, colleagues, and the broader media community, stating, “Jamaica has lost a respected broadcaster and a distinctive voice whose contribution will not be forgotten.”

Opposition spokeswoman on information, Nekeisha Burchell, described Malcolm as “a super talent and a master of the broadcast craft.” She noted that while he possessed a powerful voice, his skills extended far beyond vocal quality. Burchell emphasized Malcolm’s poise and composure behind the microphone, stating that he played a pivotal role in shaping Power 106 into an informative and accessible station where Jamaicans could engage with current issues while being entertained.

Burchell further remarked on Malcolm’s extraordinary range as a broadcaster, noting his adeptness at voice impersonation and his ability to incorporate Spanish into his broadcasts seamlessly. She stated, “You could leave his programme having learnt something new, sometimes even in another language. That was Dervan: Informed without being overbearing, confident without being boastful, authoritative without being disrespectful.”

Veteran journalist and head of Nationwide News Network, Cliff Hughes, commented on Malcolm’s talent, stating that Jamaica has lost one of its most skilled broadcasters. Hughes praised Malcolm’s ability to communicate effectively and his dedication to advocating for the diaspora community.

The Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) also paid tribute to Malcolm, recognizing him as a respected and influential voice in Jamaican broadcasting with a career spanning over three decades. The PAJ noted that he dedicated 31 years to the Independent Radio Company, establishing a reputation as a consummate professional and a passionate advocate for public education and national development.

Malcolm’s journey into broadcasting was rooted in his success in the performing arts, including participation in the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission’s Festival of the Performing Arts. PAJ President Dashan Hendricks remarked, “Dervan represented the very best of Jamaican broadcasting and journalism. He understood that journalism is not simply about reporting what is happening; it is about helping people understand the issues that shape their lives.”

Hendricks highlighted Malcolm’s noteworthy work with the diaspora, stating that he would be remembered for his professionalism, warmth, and commitment to public service, which earned him respect from colleagues and audiences alike. Throughout his distinguished career, Malcolm held several key roles, including news presenter, editor, sportscaster, talk show producer, and executive producer of various programs.

In 2007, he launched and hosted Both Sides of the Story on Power 106 FM, a program that became synonymous with informed and balanced public discourse. Through this platform, Malcolm aimed to educate, empower, and enlighten listeners while championing entrepreneurship and civic engagement.

Malcolm’s impact extended beyond the studio, as he was a strong advocate for road safety, child protection, and issues affecting Jamaicans living abroad. His dedication to the Jamaican Diaspora earned him numerous accolades, including the Union of Jamaican Alumni Associations’ Diaspora Ambassador in Media Award and the Team Jamaica Bickle Award for his service and commitment to diaspora-related issues. His contributions were also recognized by the City of Los Angeles and the Jamaica Awareness Association of California.

While his voice may now be silent, the legacy of Dervan Malcolm’s contributions to Jamaican journalism and public service will endure.

Source: jamaicaobserver.com