KUALA LUMPUR, March 19 (Bernama) -- A Dewan Negara senator has called on the government to provide sufficient funding for the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) to ensure its sustainable growth.
Senator Datuk Rosni Sohar made the call during a debate on the Bernama (Amendment) Bill 2024, highlighting the importance of transparency in the agency’s operations.
She stressed that Bernama, as a public-funded entity, must be accountable not only to the government but to the people of Malaysia.
Rosni also proposed that Bernama be given more authority and resources to combat fake news, particularly on social media, urging the agency to be equipped with the tools to verify news circulating online.
Additionally, Senator Ros Suryati Alang suggested providing special allowances for Bernama staff based on their educational qualifications to incentivise and motivate them.
She also called for Bernama to be revitalised in keeping pace with digital transformation, and ensuring it remains competitive with other mainstream media outlets while upholding its commitment to journalistic integrity.
-- BERNAMA
