THE Dewan Rakyat today approved the Bernama (Amendment) Bill 2024, a significant piece of legislation aimed at making Malaysia’s media industry more inclusive and responsive to current challenges.
This amendment is the first update to the Bernama Act 1967 (Act 780) since its inception nearly six decades ago, and it was passed following a majority voice vote after a debate involving eight Members of Parliament.
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, who introduced the bill for its second reading, explained that the amendment was designed to modernize the framework of Bernama, ensuring that it remains dynamic and aligned with the evolving needs of the media landscape.
"This bill is not just about reforms to the media and digital sectors; it is also about improving the government's communication capabilities to better address the challenges we face today," Fahmi said.
"It aims to make the media industry more inclusive, expanding beyond newspapers to include other forms of media such as print, electronic, and digital platforms."
Fahmi said the amendment was in line with the Malaysia MADANI framework, which seeks to optimse the use of digital media in conjunction with traditional media.
This approach, he stated, would create a more balanced and efficient media ecosystem, in keeping with the Ministry of Communications' goal of strengthening digital networks and infrastructure to enhance social communication and information dissemination.
Noting the recent changes in the media landscape, particularly in print journalism, Fahmi pointed out the need for a broader definition of "media organisations" to strengthen Bernama’s regulatory framework.
The proposed changes to Section 2 of the BERNAMA Act will expand the definition of a "media organisation" to include any entity involved in the dissemination of news via newspapers, publications, radio, television, and digital platforms, reflecting the sector’s diversification.
"The amendment to Act 780 also underscores the MADANI government's commitment to building a media ecosystem based on integrity and fairness under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim," he added.
Fahmi highlighted that the amendments aim to address the growing demand for news content, which is evolving rapidly in line with technological advances and the digital age.
He added these changes would enhance Bernama’s operations, making it more effective and adaptable to current trends.
Concluding the debate on the bill, Fahmi noted that he had directed the Ministry of Communications to reassess Bernama’s strategic direction in light of the proposed changes to the act.
"What is the future direction for this vital statutory body? It’s not only about conveying government policies but also about establishing Bernama as the voice of Malaysia on the global stage," he said.
The original Act 780 was established to create and incorporate Bernama as Malaysia’s national news agency, tasked with disseminating news across the country.
Today, Bernama plays an essential role in ensuring the effective communication of government policies and serving as a primary reference for both local and international media organisations, lawmakers heard.- February 26, 2025
