Fahmi Calls For Bernama-PERKESO Talks On Media Workers’ Welfare

GEORGE TOWN, Sept 15 (Bernama) -- The Communications Ministry has called on the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) to hold further discussions with the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) to explore possible assistance for media personnel based on the nature and risks of their assignments.

Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the discussion was crucial as journalism encompasses diverse specialisations and work scopes, creating different social security needs.

“I also see that when it comes to social security for those working in journalism, Bernama should hold discussions with PERKESO because when we talk about journalists, there are actually many different types with various specialisations and work arrangements,” he said.

“Photographers and cameramen, for example, often carry heavy equipment that could cause shoulder problems or slipped discs, while field reporters face risks such as harsh weather conditions and accidents,” he told reporters here today. 

Fahmi was speaking after presenting the Tabung Kasih@HAWANA aid to Choo Kar Chun, a 44-year-old journalist with Kwong Wah Yit Poh who has suffered hearing loss since October 2024.

Also present were Communications Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa, Bernama Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, and Bernama Editor-in-Chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj.

Choo is the 500th recipient of the Tabung Kasih@HAWANA and the 22nd in Penang since the initiative was introduced in 2023 under the Communications Ministry and managed by Bernama.

Fahmi added that the ministry was also considering additional support for Choo to replace his current hearing aid with a more sensitive device, noting that his condition may be linked to repeated exposure to audio recordings of interviews and press conferences.

“I will also reach out to Bukit Gelugor MP Ramkarpal Singh and Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong to see if PERKESO can extend further assistance,” he said.

He further reiterated the ministry’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with media clubs nationwide to ensure timely aid distribution under Tabung Kasih@HAWANA.

While no fixed quota has been set for recipients or funding, Fahmi stressed that a needs-based, flexible approach would be adopted to ensure assistance reaches targeted groups efficiently.

“Over the past two years, RM2 million has been allocated under Tabung Kasih@HAWANA, benefiting 500 recipients. I will also discuss with Bernama’s management on replenishing the fund to ensure its continuity,” he said.

“We are not setting any fixed quota, but I have assured media clubs that if there are specific cases at the state level, they can liaise directly with Bernama to obtain immediate assistance,” he said.

The initiative, launched in conjunction with National Journalists Day (HAWANA) 2023, reflects the MADANI Government’s compassion, empathy and appreciation for the contributions of media practitioners.

-- BERNAMA