Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) chief executive officer Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin said the Tabung Kasih@Hawana initiative is to support journalists and media workers, both active and retired, who are unwell or in need of assistance.
She said Bernama, as the agency responsible for managing the fund, is in the process of helping media partners affected by the floods this year.
"We are in the process of helping those affected by the floods and aid will be channelled as soon as possible," she said in her speech at the Malaysian Islamic Economic Development Foundation (YAPEIM) Appreciation and Charity Night here last night.
In the meantime, she also hoped that media practitioners would be able to adhere to the Malaysian Code of Ethics for Journalists that was launched by the Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil on Feb 20, this year.
"The Code of Ethics aims to ensure that media practitioners become the voice of a pluralistic society that is always transparent and has integrity. Therefore, let us continue to adhere to this code of ethics in carrying out our duties as journalists.
"In addition, it (the Malaysian Code of Ethics for Journalists) is to prevent us from personal influence in news reporting and delivery of information," she said.
Nur-ul Afida also hoped that media practitioners could increase their knowledge on the amendments to the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588) and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission Act 1998 (Act 589).
"Bills related to the amendment of Act 588 and Act 589 have been tabled (in the Dewan Rakyat).
"Let us take note and be aware of the amendments that have been made so that we do not get caught up in problems related to the law," she said.
The ceremony was launched by Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar.
Also present was Bernama Deputy Editor-in-Chief (News Service) Nasriah Darus.