Bernama Must Remain A Trusted News Source In The AI Era – CEO
KUALA LUMPUR, May 19 (Bernama) -- Staff of the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) must continue to uphold journalistic ethics and ensure that every piece of content produced is accurate, verified and factual, especially amid the challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI) and deepfakes.
Chief executive officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin said Bernama, which is celebrating its 59th anniversary this year, must remain relevant as a trusted and credible source of news in Malaysia.
"In the digital era, particularly with AI, deepfakes and other emerging technologies, journalists need to be more vigilant and cautious, while ensuring that the sources used are reliable and authentic, as has always been practised by Bernama.
"I have consistently emphasised to our staff, especially those in the Editorial Department, that they continue to uphold journalistic ethics and ensure that the content and work produced are truthful, accurate and factually correct," she told reporters after attending Bernama's 59th anniversary celebration at the Wisma Bernama lobby here today.
Also present were Bernama chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, editor-in-chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj, deputy editor-in-chief (News Service) Mohd Shukri Ishak, acting deputy editor-in-chief (Economic News Service) Harlina Samson, head of Management and Finance Services Sharifah Zaini Syed Zain, and head of Commercial Mastura Hassan.
Nur-ul Afida said Bernama's 59th anniversary reflects the national news agency's long journey and the maturity its staff have attained in carrying out their journalistic responsibilities.
"I believe this 59-year journey, coupled with the fact that many of our staff have served for more than 30 years, reflects their commitment, dedication and determination to continue performing with excellence to ensure Bernama remains relevant and a trusted source of news in Malaysia," she said.
Nur-ul Afida, who has served Bernama for 40 years, also expressed hope that the younger generation of employees would continue the organisation's tradition of excellence.
"I have witnessed Bernama's development over the years and I hope future generations, especially our younger staff, will carry forward our achievements and make this news agency even more outstanding and relevant," she said.
The celebration featured a cake-cutting ceremony by Wong and Nur-ul Afida, followed by a group photo session with Bernama staff.
Eight cakes, one pulut kuning and about 700 cupcakes were prepared for the event, attended by employees from various departments.
A special exhibition featuring eight panels highlighted Bernama's history, the evolution of Wisma Bernama, the agency's services, organisational achievements, past leadership and amendments to the Bernama Act.
The exhibition also showcased four books, namely From A Rented Bungalow: The BERNAMA Story, Ties That Bind, Perpaduan Asas Keharmonian Malaysia and Estetika: Soulful Aesthetics Mosques of Selangor.
Bernama currently has 967 employees, comprising permanent, contract and part-time staff.
Established under the Bernama Act 1967, the agency began operations on May 20, 1968 with a text news service before expanding into photo, radio, television and digital media services.
-- BERNAMA
