FORMER DEPUTY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF REFLECTS ON BERNAMA CAREER AS HER "MOST TREASURED MEMORIES"

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 29 (Bernama) -- After more than three decades of service at the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama), two veterans regard their experiences as the most treasured memories of their careers.

Nasriah Darus, 60, the former Deputy Editor-in-Chief of Bernama News Service, summed up her 36-year journalistic journey as one of constant learning and sacrifice.

She said every assignment, from general news reporting to court coverage, demanded the highest levels of accuracy and responsibility, both in terms of timing and information.

“I began my career covering general news, then progressed to the courts, reporting on everything from petty theft to the high-profile trials of deputy prime ministers and prime ministers,” she told reporters after being honoured at the Communications Ministry’s 2025 appreciation and long service awards today.

She received a certificate of appreciation from Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. Also present were Deputy Communications Minister Teo Ni Ching, Secretary-General Datuk Seri Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa, and Bernama Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin.

The Kedah-born veteran observed that the media landscape has changed significantly since the 1980s, but said journalistic principles of honesty and accuracy remained her guiding commitment throughout her service at Bernama.

"Being a journalist requires working from morning until night, with little regard for fixed hours. This isn't an easy career to sustain, especially with the major shifts brought by technological change," she said.

Also retiring was Sharifah Munirah Syed Abdullah, 59, after 36 years of service as an office secretary across various departments, including the Bernama Editorial Division.

Although not a field journalist, her contributions in supporting administrative and news management operations also played a vital role in the news agency. 

"I wasn't a media officer myself, but I am proud that my son now works as a journalist at Bernama’s sports desk," said the Kuala Kangsar, Perak, native.

Meanwhile, Sabri Mansor, 60, the director of Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) Terengganu, also reflected on his invaluable experiences spanning over 32 years in broadcasting.

"If I hadn't worked in the news department or for RTM, I would never have visited countries like Russia, Venezuela and Chile," he said.

He described the experience of accompanying official visits and conducting overseas coverage as some of his most treasured and unforgettable moments. 

A total of 114 retirees from various agencies and departments under the Ministry of Communications were honoured at the event.

The ceremony was a tribute to their lifelong service, recognising the legacy and inspiration they leave for the next generation.

-- BERNAMA