KUALA LUMPUR: The Bernama Employees Union (KPPB) plays a vital role in spurring excellence within the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) in addition to championing employees’ welfare since its establishment half a century ago.
Bernama Chief Executive Officer Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin said the union has voiced out various views and initiatives encompassing aspects of welfare, safety and health of Bernama employees.
“KPPB also plays a role in assisting the management in speeding up efforts or implementing suitable training for employees.
“The union’s committee itself represents various fields within Bernama, so we hear from every department and division,” she said during KPPB’s 50th anniversary celebration here tonight.
There are currently over 300 Bernama staff in KPPB, which was set up in Sept 1974.
Nur-ul Afida revealed that the decisions achieved through KPPB efforts include the reintroduction of the group insurance coverage scheme for all staff, increasing the number of panel clinics under the PMCare service, and an allocation of RM100,000 for loans for motorcycle and computer purchases.
“Let’s not forget the agreement to KPPB’s suggestion that employees Grade S48 and below, aged 40 and above would receive ESP heart screenings at the National Heart Institute… concerned about this issue, the management approved an allocation of RM50,000 for the screenings,” she said as she expressed her hope that the union would continue to be active in ensuring the welfare and prosperity of its members and other Bernama staff.
“It is hoped that the close ties (between Bernama management and KPPB) will continue to grow as we need employees to work in a harmonious enivronment and meet their needs,” she added.
Meanwhile, KPPB president Abu Bakar Mohamed said the union was redoubling its efforts to ensure that at least 50 per cent of Bernama employees are members.
“With more members, KPPB will become stronger,” he added.
