Kuala lumpur: As the digital information landscape continues to evolve, digital library services such as u-Pustaka and the BERNAMA Library and Infolink Service (BLIS) are playing an increasingly important role in promoting a culture of knowledge by providing access to reliable, high-quality, and trustworthy information.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, National Digital Library (PERDANA) and National Library of Malaysia Director Ali Rashid highlighted that u-Pustaka serves as the nation's digital information hub, enabling Malaysians to access millions of digital resources and borrow physical materials from 12 consortium libraries nationwide. The portal offers a wide range of free resources, including e-books, e-journals, e-magazines, audiobooks, videos, interactive learning materials, and academic databases to support lifelong learning.
Ali emphasized that users across Malaysia, including those in Sabah, can borrow physical books through Pos Malaysia, with deliveries made directly to their homes or offices. This feature allows users to benefit from u-Pustaka's databases for lifelong learning, research, and daily tasks. During Bernama TV's Ruang Bicara programme titled Digital Information: Enriching Knowledge, Empowering Learning, he shared that u-Pustaka currently has nearly 1.2 million members, with ongoing efforts to expand membership.
Moreover, u-Pustaka provides access to international databases and digital learning platforms such as MyGuru, i-LEARN Ace, and BLIS to support revision and research. Meanwhile, Bernama Senior Manager of Digital Library, Hasnita Ibrahim, explained that BLIS is a news and information database focusing on Malaysian content, covering various domains such as current affairs, archives, the economy, politics, society, industry, sports, and the environment.
BLIS currently features 12 core modules, including Bernama News, news archives, international news, sector reports, directories, facts and figures, and an events calendar. Hasnita noted that the BLIS platform has been upgraded with AI features, multimedia editing capabilities, analytics tools, and an e-payment system to enhance the user experience. It serves as a key reference source for government agencies, higher education institutions, researchers, media practitioners, and the general public.
Individuals can register for u-Pustaka through its official portal, while agencies or organizations interested in subscribing to BLIS may contact Bernama's Commercial Department Subscription Division.