Women Staff Key To Bernama’s Continued Excellence - CEO

KUALA LUMPUR, March 9 (Bernama) -- The achievements of women staff at the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) reflect their vital role as a driving force behind the agency’s continued excellence.

Bernama Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin said women’s involvement across various fields - including journalism, broadcasting, finance, technical services and management, demonstrates that they are not only dedicated employees but also leaders capable of shaping the organisation’s future.

“Women at Bernama have proven their ability not only as committed employees but also as leaders, idea generators and agents of change.

“This success shows they have strong potential to move forward and play an even more significant role in the agency,” she said when speaking at the 2026 Women’s Day celebration organised by the Association of Women and Wives of Bernama Employees (Benita), at Wisma Bernama here today.

Also present were Acting Deputy Editor-in-Chief of Economic News Services Harlina Samson, Head of Management and Finance Services Sharifah Zaini Syed Zain, Head of the Commercial Department Mastura Hassan, as well as Benita’s leadership.

Nur-ul Afida said women make up about 450 of Bernama’s 975 employees, highlighting their significant presence in the organisation.

“We can say the numbers are almost balanced, but what I would like to highlight is that about 300 of them are in the management and professional category,” she said.

She added that Bernama remains committed to fostering an inclusive and progressive workplace that supports women’s career development.

“We believe that when women are given opportunities to further develop their roles and skills, Bernama will become stronger, more innovative and more competitive,” she said.

At the same time, she encouraged women staff, particularly younger employees with longer years of service ahead, to continue challenging themselves and enhancing their skills to sustain the organisation’s excellence.

“I hope my women colleagues at Bernama will continue to challenge themselves, improve their skills and not be satisfied with what they have achieved. We can go further, including pursuing further studies to advance our careers.

“I encourage this because I have done it myself. It is very challenging, but it contributes to personal development. However, permission from management must be obtained,” she added.

Nur-ul Afida also expressed appreciation to women staff for their dedication and commitment in contributing to Bernama’s success.

“Although this year’s celebration falls during the month of Ramadan, it is still lively and meaningful, giving us renewed spirit to keep moving forward. Be Bernama women who inspire change and drive excellence,” she said.

The event, themed “Empowering Women, Strengthening the Nation,” also saw about 250 Benita members receive festive contributions in conjunction with the upcoming Hari Raya celebration.

-- BERNAMA