Kuala Lumpur: The BERNAMA (Amendment) Bill 2024, approved by the Dewan Rakyat today, is poised to enhance the Malaysian National News Agency’s standing as a leading source of authoritative news content across multiple platforms, including wires, television, radio, and digital.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the amendment to the BERNAMA Act 1967 (Act 780) is expected to bolster Bernama’s role in distributing and accessing news and content more effectively. Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, Bernama’s CEO, emphasized the agency’s commitment to maintaining high journalistic standards and being a trusted news source.

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil highlighted the bill’s aim to align with current media industry needs by introducing a new, dynamic framework. The bill proposes changes to Section 2 of the principal Act, defining media organizations in terms of contemporary digital and technological advances.

Nur-ul Afida expressed optimism about improving Bernama’s editorial efficiency and its potential to become a global news agency. She acknowledged the contributions of Fahmi and Deputy Minister Teo Nie Ching in advancing the Act’s amendment.

Several lawmakers have advocated for Bernama’s empowerment on the international stage, with Nur-ul Afida supporting the idea of reopening overseas bureaus. She noted Bernama’s multilingual website and digital platforms as tools for expanding global reach.

Historically, Bernama has established a global presence, having opened correspondent bureaus in major ASEAN cities in the 1970s and participating in international news agency networks like OANA and UNA.

Bernama Chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai expressed gratitude for the bipartisan support in the Dewan Rakyat. He acknowledged the changing media landscape and the necessity for a diversified board to enhance Bernama’s efficiency.

Wong also highlighted Bernama’s ongoing digital transformation efforts, including AI training for Malaysian journalists, supported by Huawei Malaysia, to elevate journalistic skills.