59 Years Of Bernama: Foreign Correspondents Are Strategic Partners In Advancing Diplomacy, Malaysia’s Image

By Anas Hassan

SINGAPORE, May 20 (Bernama) -- The role of foreign correspondents of the Malaysian National News Agency (BERNAMA) extends beyond merely reporting news and current issues; as they have also served as a vital bridge in strengthening bilateral diplomatic relations throughout the agency’s establishment 59 years ago.

They are responsible for reporting various international developments involving global issues such as geopolitics, the economy, as well as regional and international current affairs.

The Singapore office of the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (MITI Singapore) described BERNAMA as not just a news agency, but also a key strategic partner in advancing the country's economic diplomacy.

Through accurate, credible and comprehensive reporting, BERNAMA helps highlight the country's economic strengths, the stability of government policies, and Malaysia's potential as an investment destination and competitive trading partner in the region.

“In the context of Malaysia-Singapore relations, BERNAMA has consistently supported the strengthening of bilateral economic ties through extensive and in-depth coverage.

“The organisation has also played a key role in shaping a positive narrative on trade, investment, industrial development, and the country's new economic initiatives to foreign investors and the international business community based in Singapore,” it told BERNAMA in conjunction with the news agency’s 59th anniversary.

MITI Singapore also views BERNAMA as a trusted official news source because of its commitment to factual accuracy, journalistic ethics and the delivery of credible information.

“In this era of global competition and digital transformation, BERNAMA has tremendous potential to further expand the reach of its high-quality content, including in the areas of economy, trade, investment and emerging technologies,” it said.

Meanwhile, former BERNAMA correspondent in India, M Saraswathi, described the role of a correspondent as extending beyond simply reporting news, but also serving as an ambassador for the country in terms of information dissemination.

She said that apart from reporting on bilateral relations and producing positive promotional articles about Malaysia, correspondents are also entrusted with upholding professionalism, integrity and honour at all times, while safeguarding the country’s good name and image.

BERNAMA was established under the BERNAMA Act 1967 and began operations on May 20, 1968 with a news text service before expanding into photo, radio, television and digital media services.

-- BERNAMA