Bernama Photographer Wins Second Place For Photojournalism In Green Pinang Awards 2025

GEORGE TOWN, Dec 16 (Bernama) – The Malaysian Nasional News Agency (Bernama) won second place for the Penang Green Journalism Award (photojournalism category) at the Green Pinang Awards 2025 held at Komtar here today.

The award was won by Bernama's Penang bureau photographer Muhammad Zainulariff Ahmad Sarbri, 30, for his photo titled 'Penternakan Ikan Sangkar', which was taken in the waters off Sungai Udang, Nibong Tebal. It earned him RM1,000 in cash and a certificate of appreciation.

The award was presented by the State Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo to Bernama's Penang bureau chief R. Ratcharathan, who represented Muhammad Zainulariff as the photographer is currently covering the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand.

Sharing his joy over the recognition, Muhammad Zainulariff said he was grateful that his efforts in producing an exclusive report on the aquaculture industry in Sungai Udang, which is the largest farming area involving over 100 farmers, last March, had paid off.

"I am very happy to win the Penang Green Journalism Award for the photo category for the fourth time, and this victory will be a catalyst for me to continue producing more quality photos on the Pearl of the Orient," he said when contacted.

Muhammad Zainulariff, who has been with Bernama for nearly 10 years, said the photo was taken while he personally witnessed the fish farming process at sea, which was far more challenging than expected, especially facing unpredictable weather conditions to ensure the survival and growth of the farm.

For the same category, photographer Lim Seow Wei from Sin Chew Daily won the first prize while Berita Harian’s Mohamad Danial Mohamad Saad was placed third.

Meanwhile, Sundarajoo said media drivers and creative content creators play important roles in delivering accurate information, educating the public, and shaping public perception of environmental issues.

He said their role in shaping the sustainability of Penang is not just about reporting stories, but also about raising awareness, opening up space for dialogue and inspiring action.

"Every article, video, documentary, or digital campaign produced has the power to move thousands of minds, change attitudes, and influence decisions that have a significant impact on the environment," he added.

The award ceremony, organised by the Penang Green Council, also saw the presentation of the Penang Green Kindergarten Incentive 2025 and the Penang Sustainable Content Creator Award.

-- BERNAMA