Bernama A Trustful, Reputable Institution - Envoys

The number 50 holds significant meaning to both Argentina-Malaysia ties and the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) as both celebrate their golden jubilee this year.

Bernama, a statutory body, was set up by an Act of Parliament on April 6, 1967, while the Argentina-Malaysia diplomatic ties was established on June 7, the same year.

Argentina Ambassador to Malaysia Manuel Balaguer Salas said sharing this year to celebrate important milestone with an important entity like Bernama made it a more merrier and meaningful celebration for all parties.

The Buenos Aires born-envoy described Bernama as a trustful institution, which has helped Argentina, especially the embassy here, to highlight any issues or events related to the country.

"Fifty years do not happen everyday. So to us and Bernama, I think it is a very important symbolic event and I am happy to share that with you," he said in his congratulatory message to Bernama.

"I personally check news updates from the Bernama website and I have the app on my smartphone, as it is reliable and help me to prioritise which news is important from all the many information available in the media sphere," Salas added.

The envoy, who was posted here in March last year, also hoped that Bernama and the Argentine national news agency, Telam, could work together as there was a need for both agencies to exchange information.

"For example, if we need some information especially on the Southeast Asian region, we can rely on Bernama as it is among one of the good sources of news," he said, adding that he would pursue for a collaboration between the two news agencies during his tenure here.

For Ukrainian Ambassador to Malaysia, Olexander Nechytaylo, over the past 50 years, Bernama had not only become the voice of Malaysia internationally, but has also grown into one of the most established and reputable regional news agencies.

He said that ever since his arrival in Malaysia he had been very fortunate to have the opportunity of working closely with a very professional and committed Bernama media team.

"My wish to all Bernama staff is to maintain the best reporting practice and to set the tone in Malaysian media environment by safeguarding the highest standards of journalism.

"Don't fall into temptation of sensationalism, promote balance and rational approach, bring more positive messages about your country -- for Malaysia undeniably has a lot of achievements to be proud of. Happy 50th Anniversary!" said the ambassador who loves durians.

As for Sri Lankan High Commissioner to Malaysia A.J.M. Muzammil, the establishment of Bernama as Malaysia's national news agency 50 years ago was very significant and played an important role in promoting the country to the mass audience.

"I hope you continue these services in all aspects . You have done very well not only in promoting your country, but other countries as well. Congratulations Bernama," he said.

-- BERNAMA