KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) has trained seven photographers to serve as photojournalists to help diversify digital media products to meet customer demand, Bernama acting chief executive officer Datuk Zakaria Abdul Wahab said yesterday.
He said Bernama took the initiative to mould the photojournalists in line with the developments in the media industry and to provide career development opportunities for existing photographers who have university degrees.
“They underwent intensive training under Bernama managing editor Mohamad Nasir Yusoff for six months up to December,” he said at the presentation and final evaluation of the course at Wisma Bernama here.
Zakaria, who is Bernama editor-in-chief, said the seven experienced photographers were trained not only in the writing of news, features and analyses but also in the latest multimedia technology such as the use of drones and writing for social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and online portals.
He said they would not feel they have covered all areas by just completing the course but must acquire knowledge continuously in line with the progress of technology.
The tasks of a photojournalist include producing photo essays, short video clips for social media and short documentaries as well as critiquing domestic current affairs that receive attention abroad.
The final evaluation was conducted by a four-member panel comprising Zakaria, Mohamad Nasir, Photo Editor Mohamad Bakri Darus and Senior Manager, Nikon Professional Services, Imaging Marketing Department, Mahfooz NR.
Based on their deep interest, determination and ability to work in a variety of situations, this first group of photojournalists can help to raise Bernama’s name, especially in the special coverage of issues that can highlight Malaysia’s positive image.
Meanwhile, Mahfooz said the seven photojournalists had done Bernama proud because all their presented products had their own sponsors.
The photojournalists are Mazlan Samion, Shahrizan Jeffri Aziz, Azman Firdaus, Mohd Adib Hakim Asri, Mohd Hafzi Hasani Mohamad, Mahayudin Mohamad and Syed Mohammed Zahid Makbul Wafa. – Bernama
