Integrity-Driven, Technology-Based Asset Management Key To Bernama’s Competitiveness - Nur-ul Afida

MELAKA, May 1 (Bernama) -- Efficient asset management with integrity and based on digital technology is a key driver of organisations’ ability, particularly the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama), to remain competitive and maintain stakeholders’ trust.

Bernama Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin said assets can no longer be viewed merely as physical resources, but must instead be managed as strategic value drivers that directly contribute to organisational performance, productivity and sustainability.

“Efficient asset management enables organisations to optimise costs, minimise risks and maximise returns through a comprehensive approach encompassing planning, procurement, utilisation, maintenance and disposal,” she said at the closing ceremony of the Bernama Movable Asset Management Enhancement Course here today.

Nur-ul Afida said every entrusted asset must be managed with discipline, transparency and a high level of accountability to prevent any leakage or negligence that could affect the organisation’s reputation.

She said integrity in asset management is a fundamental pillar in maintaining stakeholders’ trust, adding that there can be no compromise in terms of compliance and leakages, as any weakness would have a direct impact on the organisation’s reputation.

“Organisation’s assets are a trust, and every decision related to them must be made based on the principles of good governance and in compliance with established regulations,” she said.

Meanwhile, she said the use of technologies such as integrated systems, data analytics and real-time monitoring must be strengthened in line with the pace of digitalisation, as one of the agencies responding to the government’s call for digital transformation through ICT infrastructure upgrades, including the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI).

“Bernama is now moving towards transforming its asset management system to strengthen maintenance, monitoring and asset management across all its premises nationwide.

“This effort involves assets at Wisma Bernama, state bureaus, as well as correspondent offices, valued at millions of ringgit. As such, I hope this course will also serve as preparation for appointed asset representatives to face this transformation,” she said.

She added that asset representatives need to be better equipped with the necessary knowledge and input to support more systematic maintenance and inspection processes, as efficient asset management is not only important for optimising costs but also plays a role in minimising risks that could directly impact the organisation’s performance and standing.

Nur-ul Afida said the role of asset representatives is crucial, even though they carry out additional responsibilities without any financial incentives.

“I deeply appreciate their commitment to assisting management in ensuring that assets are always in good condition. At the same time, the responsibility of safeguarding assets does not rest solely with asset representatives, but involves all Bernama personnel,” she said.

Earlier, a total of 35 Bernama asset representatives from the headquarters and bureaus attended the three-day course, which began on April 29 and concluded today.

-- BERNAMA