Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) marks its 59th anniversary today, celebrating nearly six decades of transformation from a traditional wire service into a premier multimedia organisation at the forefront of digital and AI-assisted journalism.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the agency has significantly expanded its footprint since being established under the BERNAMA Act 1967, now delivering verified news through a comprehensive ecosystem including digital platforms, Bernama Radio, Bernama TV, and an extensive social media network.
Bernama Special Projects Editor M. Govind Nair highlighted that the agency's growth reflects its ability to adapt to the changing media landscape while remaining a vital pillar of Malaysia's information ecosystem. He emphasized that Bernama has evolved beyond a conventional news agency into a multimedia organisation embracing digital journalism, broadcasting, and AI-assisted newsroom operations. Despite the rapid flow of information in the social media era, the agency has maintained its core principles of verification, fairness, and balance.
Govind Nair, who has served with Bernama for over 45 years, noted the agency's credibility remains its greatest strength, built on a reputation for professionalism. Addressing the next generation of media practitioners, he advised young Bernama journalists to remain curious and adaptable to new technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), while never compromising on accuracy and credibility.
Former Bernama chief executive officer and editor-in-chief Datuk Mokhtar Hussain stressed the importance of improving skills in writing style, questioning techniques, data collection, and critical thinking to maintain the integrity of every news report produced. He emphasized adherence to Section 4 of the Bernama Act 1967, which demands that news presentation be complete, objective, balanced, and non-prejudicial.
Mokhtar also stressed mastering current technology, especially AI, to navigate the increasingly challenging global media landscape. He highlighted the need for Bernama journalists to deepen their knowledge in data analytics and technology-based fact-checking processes to strengthen report quality amidst the rapid flow of digital information.
Former Bernama general manager and editor-in-chief Datuk Yong Soo Heong added that the agency must leverage its long-standing credibility to 'cut through the noise' of information overload on social media. He emphasized Bernama's role in nation-building and bridging information gaps, advocating for more in-depth reporting and analyses.
Yong encouraged the engagement of veteran journalists to strengthen Bernama's offerings and urged the newsroom to utilize its Library and Resource Centre and AI tools to produce impactful stories. However, he cautioned against the erosion of journalistic values and advised prioritizing well-researched analyses over pressures from external parties.
To younger journalists, Yong advised reading widely and promoting Malaysia's diversity, reminding them that journalism is a rewarding career for those willing to work hard.
After almost six decades, Bernama continues to strengthen its international presence through collaborations with regional and global news agencies. Beyond its editorial functions, the agency has expanded its commercial capabilities, including managing media centres for major international meetings and exhibitions, as well as book publishing. Bernama currently has 967 employees, comprising permanent, contract, and part-time staff.