KUALA LUMPUR, April 30 (Bernama) -- The Tabung Kasih@HAWANA initiative, introduced in conjunction with National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA), is regarded as one of the most meaningful efforts to support the welfare of media practitioners, particularly veterans facing health and financial issues.
Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) chief executive officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin said that since 2023, the government has channelled various forms of assistance to the group, including expanding social protection coverage through contributions to the Social Security Organisation (Perkeso) and opening Employees Provident Fund (EPF) accounts for those who were previously non-contributors.
She said the approach goes beyond short-term assistance, focusing instead on long-term security for media practitioners.
“Every time we meet them, I can see the commitment of the Communications Ministry in helping our colleagues. It is not just about the Tabung Kasih, but also Perkeso contributions and EPF savings.
“This is all to prepare for their future and old age. We do not want them to face difficulties after they retire,” she said when appearing as a guest on Radio Televisyen Malaysia’s (RTM) Selamat Pagi Malaysia programme here today.
On HAWANA 2026 celebration, Nur-ul Afida, who is also chairman of the HAWANA 2026 working committee, said various programmes have been lined up starting May 7, including a Media Forum bringing together leaders of media organisations and communication students to discuss current challenges in the journalism industry.
She told reporters after the programme that the Media Forum serves as a platform to share insights on industry developments, including geopolitical issues such as the West Asian conflict and its implications for the journalism landscape.
“I believe that information on current developments, especially during this period of West Asian conflict, can help guide us in navigating the journalism field. I also hope participants can provide input on how we can face these challenges to ensure the sustainability of the media industry, including ideas and suggestions,” she said.
She added that the forum is also expected to give communication students greater exposure to the realities and demands of the journalism profession.
Meanwhile, she said the HAWANA-DBP 2026 Pantun Festival, now in its second edition, will feature eight teams, with winners to be announced at the highlight of HAWANA 2026 in Penang on June 20.
On the challenges of the digital era and artificial intelligence (AI), Nur-ul Afida stressed the need for media practitioners to adapt to technological advancements without compromising core journalistic principles.
“Journalists must accept and adapt to new technologies, while management must ensure that appropriate facilities and equipment are provided.
“In this regard, the Communications Ministry’s support through the recent allocation of funds to Bernama and 32 other media organisations under the Media Innovation Fund to strengthen capabilities, particularly in the adoption of AI in the newsroom, is greatly appreciated,” she said.
She advised the younger generation that future media practitioners must uphold integrity and journalistic ethics to maintain public trust in media organisations, including RTM and Bernama, as reliable sources of information.
The highlight of HAWANA 2026 will be launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the PICCA Convention Centre@Arena Butterworth, Penang, and is expected to gather about 1,000 media practitioners from within and outside the country.
Organised by the Communications Ministry with Bernama as the implementing agency, HAWANA serves as the pinnacle platform in recognising the contributions, dedication and professionalism of media practitioners in Malaysia.
She said the approach goes beyond short-term assistance, focusing instead on long-term security for media practitioners.
“Every time we meet them, I can see the commitment of the Communications Ministry in helping our colleagues. It is not just about the Tabung Kasih, but also Perkeso contributions and EPF savings.
“This is all to prepare for their future and old age. We do not want them to face difficulties after they retire,” she said when appearing as a guest on Radio Televisyen Malaysia’s (RTM) Selamat Pagi Malaysia programme here today.
On HAWANA 2026 celebration, Nur-ul Afida, who is also chairman of the HAWANA 2026 working committee, said various programmes have been lined up starting May 7, including a Media Forum bringing together leaders of media organisations and communication students to discuss current challenges in the journalism industry.
She told reporters after the programme that the Media Forum serves as a platform to share insights on industry developments, including geopolitical issues such as the West Asian conflict and its implications for the journalism landscape.
“I believe that information on current developments, especially during this period of West Asian conflict, can help guide us in navigating the journalism field. I also hope participants can provide input on how we can face these challenges to ensure the sustainability of the media industry, including ideas and suggestions,” she said.
She added that the forum is also expected to give communication students greater exposure to the realities and demands of the journalism profession.
Meanwhile, she said the HAWANA-DBP 2026 Pantun Festival, now in its second edition, will feature eight teams, with winners to be announced at the highlight of HAWANA 2026 in Penang on June 20.
On the challenges of the digital era and artificial intelligence (AI), Nur-ul Afida stressed the need for media practitioners to adapt to technological advancements without compromising core journalistic principles.
“Journalists must accept and adapt to new technologies, while management must ensure that appropriate facilities and equipment are provided.
“In this regard, the Communications Ministry’s support through the recent allocation of funds to Bernama and 32 other media organisations under the Media Innovation Fund to strengthen capabilities, particularly in the adoption of AI in the newsroom, is greatly appreciated,” she said.
She advised the younger generation that future media practitioners must uphold integrity and journalistic ethics to maintain public trust in media organisations, including RTM and Bernama, as reliable sources of information.
The highlight of HAWANA 2026 will be launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the PICCA Convention Centre@Arena Butterworth, Penang, and is expected to gather about 1,000 media practitioners from within and outside the country.
Organised by the Communications Ministry with Bernama as the implementing agency, HAWANA serves as the pinnacle platform in recognising the contributions, dedication and professionalism of media practitioners in Malaysia.