Veteran Journo Abdullah Hamzah Of RTM Receives Donation From Kasih@HAWANA Fund

PASIR MAS, Sept 16 (Bernama) -- Veteran media practitioner and former Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) journalist Abdullah Hamzah was honoured today with a contribution from the Kasih@HAWANA Fund, acknowledging his long-standing service and dedication to the field of broadcast journalism.

Abdullah, 71, who served more than 30 years in the industry and is currently battling multiple health issues, including gout, hypertension, and heart disease, described the contribution as a deeply meaningful gesture of moral support.

“I’m truly thankful to everyone who still remembers us, the old-timers in broadcast journalism. This kind of recognition shows that our efforts are not forgotten, even long after leaving the media world.

“This isn’t just financial help. It’s moral encouragement that lifts my spirits and gives me the strength to keep facing life’s challenges,” he told Bernama at his home in Chetok, Kelantan.

Abdullah became the 501st recipient nationwide and the 49th in Kelantan to benefit from the Kasih@HAWANA Fund. The contribution was presented by Kelantan Bernama Bureau chief Muhammad Afiq Mohd Asri.

Recalling the beginnings of his career, Abdullah said his passion for broadcasting began in his youth, when his village didn’t yet have access to television, and the radio became his constant companion.

“I even slept with the radio on. I used to listen to news and entertainment programmes every night, which helped me easily answer quiz questions about international issues in school,” said Abdullah, who now lives with his wife, Naterah Awang Kechik, 72. The couple has three children.

Abdullah began his career with RTM in the early 1970s, serving 18 years at Angkasapuri and another 12 years with the Kelantan RTM station.

Among the most treasured memories of his career was joining the royal entourage of the late Sultan Ahmad Shah of Pahang, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong at the time, on a haj trip in the 1980s, where he was given the rare honour of entering the Kaaba alongside the King, an experience he described as “truly priceless.”

Abdullah also frequently covered royal events at Istana Negara, various state occasions, and even high-risk field operations.

“Journalists today are much more fortunate with the abundance of technology and resources. Back in our day, transportation was limited and every assignment came with its own set of challenges, but those struggles made the experiences that much more meaningful,” he said.

The Kasih@HAWANA Fund is an initiative that reflects the MADANI spirit, promoting compassion and gratitude toward media practitioners who once served the nation but now face hardship or health challenges. Launched in conjunction with National Journalists Day (HAWANA) 2023, the fund is spearheaded by the Ministry of Communications and implemented by Bernama.

-- BERNAMA