Cover image via @stineshinarw (Instagram)
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Malaysian photographer Tinesh Sritharan has issued a public apology following the controversy surrounding his claims of being selected for a National Geographic programme
The issue first surfaced after National Geographic said Tinesh's selection letter was "fraudulent", and that he was not a member of the organisation's Explorer programme.
In a statement posted online, Tinesh acknowledged the confusion and concerns that had arisen.
He explained that he had travelled to Kenya with the hope of telling meaningful stories, particularly about the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, and that he had invested months of preparation, along with his own time, funds, and energy.
"Over the past few days, there have been many headlines and conversations about me and my work. Some of what has been shared has caused confusion, and I understand the concerns that have arisen," he wrote.
Tinesh insisted that his focus remains on completing the work he set out to do, regardless of the controversy
He revealed that his project, titled Echoes of the Savannah, will continue in Kenya.
"Whether or not a prestigious name stands beside mine, the stories will be told," he said, adding that the experience has been a reminder of resilience through challenges.
"I take full responsibility for my part in this, and I sincerely apologise to the people of Malaysia, to my sponsors, and to everyone who has supported me, for the disappointment and the inconvenience I have caused," he wrote.
According to his recent Instagram Stories, he appears to be in Kenya.
The photographer also promised transparency moving forward, pledging to share a sequence of events and a detailed breakdown of the funding he received and how it was spent
"I believe it is important to remain accountable to those who have trusted me," he said.
Tinesh concluded his message by thanking Malaysians for their support.
"Thank you, Malaysia, for standing by me. Your faith keeps me moving forward."
The controversy first began when it was reported that Tinesh had been "selected" by National Geographic to document untold stories of the Maasai Mara, but the organisation later confirmed that the letter announcing his selection was not genuine
While MIC has defended him by saying the "fraud lies in the letter" and not in Tinesh, public debate over the matter has continued.
For now, Tinesh says he remains committed to telling the stories he set out to capture in Kenya.
