Kuala lumpur: The inclusion of representatives from electronic and digital media in the Board of Governors of the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) is anticipated to enrich its content and strengthen the agency's position, stated Sarawak Media Group (SMG) Sdn Bhd Chief Media Officer Mohamad Sardon Zainal.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamad Sardon, who has been appointed as a permanent member of the board for the term from September 1, 2025, to August 31, 2027, expressed hope that expanding the board membership to include representatives from these platforms would help enhance the quality of local journalism.
Mohamad Sardon, also the Acting Chief Executive Officer of TV Sarawak, remarked, 'Although perhaps not as advanced as some digital platforms today, I believe that by combining various media forms, especially from television, we can improve content and further solidify Bernama's role as a leading news agency in Malaysia.' He made these comments after receiving his letter of appointment during a ceremony where Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil presented letters to newly appointed members of Bernama's Supervisory Council and Board of Governors at Wisma Bernama.
For the first time, representatives from electronic and digital media organisations have been appointed to the Bernama Board of Governors, in alignment with amendments to the BERNAMA Act 1967 that expanded the board's membership to include these platforms. Electronic media representative Azeem Abu Bakar, Managing Director of Free Malaysia Today Media, was also appointed to the board for the same term.
Meanwhile, Johor Royal Press Office (RPO) Head Anand Kumar Selvam, appointed as a member of Bernama's Supervisory Council, highlighted that new technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), should be leveraged to strengthen Bernama's position as the nation's leading news agency. He emphasized that technological advancements could aid Bernama in adapting to the challenges of the digital era while continuing to be a trusted news source.
'Based on my experience in journalism, I will do my best to help enhance Bernama's image so that it continues to be respected as an authoritative source of news,' Anand stated. Anand, who has served 11 years at the RPO, also expressed his gratitude to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, for entrusting him with the role.