Kuala Lumpur: The National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2025 is recognized as a crucial platform for honoring media practitioners' contributions to the nation's development while reinforcing the integrity and credibility of journalism.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) Chief Executive Officer, Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, emphasized the significance of HAWANA in fostering connections among media professionals and facilitating discussions on contemporary issues. Speaking at the HAWANA 2025-Bernama Strategic Partners' Appreciation Ceremony and the Official Launch of BERNAMA Motorhome at Wisma Bernama, she acknowledged that despite the media's busy schedule covering significant events like the 46th ASEAN Summit, the celebration of HAWANA, designated on May 29, remains a priority.
The event was graced by Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, along with key figures such as Communications Ministry Secretary-General Datuk Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa and Bernama Editor-in-Chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj, who is also the director of the HAWANA 2025 Project.
Nur-ul Afida highlighted Bernama's role as the implementing agency for HAWANA, a responsibility assigned by the Communications Ministry since its inception in 2018 in Kuala Lumpur. To ensure inclusivity, past celebrations were held in Melaka (2022), Perak (2023), and Kuching, Sarawak (last year), with this year's event returning to Kuala Lumpur in conjunction with Malaysia's ASEAN Chairmanship.
Expressing gratitude to 79 strategic partners, including ministries, departments, agencies, and companies, Nur-ul Afida acknowledged their vital support in ensuring the success of HAWANA 2025 programs. She noted that the celebration would be more vibrant and beneficial with various events starting from May through September, including the HAWANA-DBP 2025 Pantun Festival and a media forum organized with the Malaysian Press Institute (MPI).
Themed "Journalism in the New Era: Embracing AI, Safeguarding Ethics," the HAWANA 2025 celebration will take place at the KL World Trade Centre from June 13 to 15, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim officiating the highlight on June 14. The event is expected to attract over 1,000 media practitioners and representatives from ASEAN member states, providing a platform for professional engagement and strategic partnership building.
In addition, Nur-ul Afida introduced the newly launched BERNAMA Motorhome, equipped with advanced mobile studio facilities, as part of Bernama's initiative to stay competitive in the media landscape. Celebrating its 58th anniversary last month, Bernama continues to strive towards excellence as the nation's official news agency and a trusted news source.