Bernama Receives Award For Extensive Coverage Of Environmental Issues

LANGKAWI, Oct 21 (Bernama) — The National News Agency of Malaysia (Bernama) received the Environmental Writing Media Award in conjunction with the National level opening ceremony of the National Environment Day (HASN) 2024, here tonight.

The award was given in recognition of the news agency’s involvement in covering environmental issues throughout all online platforms and print media.

The Raja Muda of Kedah Tengku Sarafudin Badlishah Sultan Sallehuddin who officiated the ceremony presented the award to Bernama which was received by Bernama’s Kedah bureau chief Rhoma Ahmad Razali on behalf of Bernama chief executive officer Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin.

The Raja Puan Muda Kedah Che Puan Muda Zaheeda Mohamad Ariff also graced the ceremony together with Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad and the Chairman of Kedah Public Works, Natural Resources, Water Supply and Water Resources and Environment Committee Mohamad Yusoff@Munir Zakaria.

Nik Nazmi in his speech said the HASN celebration this time was like ‘sirih pulang ke gagang’ following the enactment of the Langkawi Declaration on the Environment in October 1989.

He said this year's celebration still maintains the timeless theme of 'Environment, Shared Responsibility' which reflects the role of all parties in ensuring environmental sustainability.

According to him, individuals and organizations that have contributed significantly towards environmental sustainability were also recognised with the Langkawi – Environmental Sustainability Award (ALKAS), which is the country's highest award to individuals and organisations. 

"This award was also triggered by the Langkawi Declaration which was signed by the Heads of State of the Commonwealth in 1989. The ALKAS award was also recognized by His Majesty the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong," he said.

According to him, the contribution of ALKAS recipients goes beyond matters related to the Environmental Quality Act 1974, and it covers all aspects of environmental management and conservation.

"In fact, individual award recipients are selected from community figures and organisations that help mobilise communities and Malaysians to jointly carry out the environmental sustainability agenda.

"This is an inspired whole-of-country approach where the government and the community work hand in hand, in preserving and conserving the environment for the future generations will come," he said.

Three recipients received ALKAS in tonight's ceremony, namely Tenaga Nasional Bhd in the organisation category, Principal of Sekolah Menengah St. Micheal, Penampang, Sabah Jennifer Asing (individual category) and Beaufort District Council (Langkawi Award Panel Special Appreciation category) each received certificates, plaques and RM50,000 cash.

— BERNAMA