Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) today announced the appointment of Mohd Shukri Ishak as deputy editor-in-chief of News Services, effective February 1. The appointment was confirmed by its chief executive officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin. Mohd Shukri, aged 53, has been promoted to the position after serving in an acting capacity since July 22 of the previous year, following the mandatory retirement of Nasriah Darus.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohd Shukri, originally from Kedah, has been with the news agency since May 1, 1996, starting his career as an editorial executive. A graduate in Communications from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, he has held several positions within Bernama, including Pahang Bureau chief, Foreign Correspondent in Indonesia, executive editor of the Digital Media Desk, and head of Broadcasting (TV and Radio).

Meanwhile, Harlina Samson, 58, has been appointed as acting deputy editor-in-chief of Economic News Services, effective February 1, replacing Azlina Aziz, who retired on January 12. Holding a Diploma in Mass Communication (Journalism) from Institut Teknologi MARA (now Universiti Teknologi MARA) and a Master of Corporate Communication from Universiti Putra Malaysia, Harlina will serve in an acting capacity for one year. She joined Bernama on December 16, 1991, and has served as Policy and Strategic Planning head, executive editor of the News Services, and Bernama Sarawak bureau chief.

Policy and Strategic Planning deputy head Ahmad Shukran Shaharuddin, 53, will take over Harlina's position, effective February 1. Additionally, Bernama Radio News and Presentation senior manager Endok Baleana Bachok, 47, has been announced to assume the duties of head of Radio from February 1 until March 31, following the death of Azlan Idris, 57, on January 15.