UKAS, Bernama Strengthen Cooperation For 2027 SEA Games Coverage

KUCHING, May 5 (Bernama) -- The Sarawak Public Communications Unit (UKAS) and the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) are strengthening cooperation in preparation for coverage of the 2027 SEA Games.

Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS) Datuk Abdullah Saidol said Bernama, as an experienced media institution in the country, plays an important role in enhancing the capabilities of UKAS personnel, particularly through the organisation of training programmes, workshops and knowledge-sharing sessions.

“Bernama has extensive experience in various aspects, and we value the collaboration in organising specific programmes to prepare, not only UKAS personnel, but also journalists here.

“Although we have had exposure to managing media at the Malaysia Games (SUKMA) 2024, the SEA Games is a different platform and requires more thorough preparation,” he said when met after receiving a courtesy call from Bernama’s top management at the UKAS headquarters here today.

The Bernama delegation, led by Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, included Editor-in-Chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj and Sarawak Bureau chief Ammar Syafiq Hamzah. Also present was UKAS deputy director Mohamed Faizal Shah Ali.

Meanwhile, Abdullah said preparations also include the provision of facilities for local and international journalists expected to cover the Games.

“We are not only looking at the reporting aspect, but also logistics such as media centres, internet access, transportation, accommodation and other facilities to ensure the smooth execution of journalists’ duties,” he said.

For her part, Nur-ul Afida said the visit, although brief, provided an opportunity to further strengthen the existing relationship between the two agencies.

She also expressed Bernama’s readiness to collaborate with UKAS and the state government in hosting upcoming sporting events, including the SUKMA and other events in Sarawak.

“This visit provides us with the opportunity to express our intention to further strengthen ties between Bernama and UKAS. We believe Bernama has expertise in journalism, including coverage of major events such as SUKMA, which was previously held in Sarawak,” she said.

According to her, Bernama’s experience in managing international media centres during regional events such as ASEAN meetings, as well as several major national events, adds value to the collaboration.

-- BERNAMA