Hawana: The final preparations for the HAWANA media forum, the inaugural program for the events planned for National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2026, were completed smoothly today. Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin confirmed that the program, expected to be a focal point, will see attendance from media leaders, journalists, academics, public relations practitioners, lecturers, and students from both public and private universities.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Nur-ul Afida expressed anticipation for the event's kickoff, scheduled for tomorrow, marking the commencement of this year's HAWANA celebrations. She expressed satisfaction with the preparations, which she hopes will lead to a smooth inauguration ceremony by Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching. Speaking during the rehearsal for the forum, Nur-ul Afida said that the forum will include three sessions, each addressing pertinent issues within the media industry.

The first session will focus on challenges faced by the media during crisis periods, specifically in light of the current West Asia conflict. The second and third sessions will explore how journalists can navigate their careers amidst evolving media landscapes and the necessity of integrating artificial intelligence and other technologies into their work. Nur-ul Afida emphasized the interconnected nature of these topics and their relevance to current media practitioners.

The HAWANA 2026 summit, set to be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, will take place at the PICCA Convention Centre in Penang on June 20. Beyond the forum, HAWANA, organized by the Ministry of Communications with Bernama as the implementing agency, will feature a Pantun Festival (poetry festival), Fun Walk, exhibitions, and a sports carnival.