Kuala lumpur: After 35 years in journalism, Azlina Aziz, Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) deputy editor-in-chief of Economic News Services, was honoured today at her retirement ceremony. She will officially retire on Monday, Jan 12, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of experience, leadership, and professional contributions throughout her service at the agency.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Bernama chief executive officer, Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, described Azlina as a leader moulded by hands-on field experience, having started her career as a reporter before assuming top management responsibilities at Bernama. Azlina’s appointment as deputy editor-in-chief of the economic desk was made based on her extensive experience, which covered various roles, from reporter and editor to sub-editor.

‘In my view, she was the right candidate to fill the leadership vacancy at the economic desk. Her experience in the field of economics is very deep,’ Nur-ul Afida said. She added that Azlina is actually her junior and recalled guiding her during her industrial training, highlighting their close professional relationship despite being assigned to different desks throughout their service.

Bernama editor-in-chief, Arul Rajoo Durar Raj, noted that Azlina is a highly experienced officer in the economic desk and a sports enthusiast, particularly in bowling. ‘Many journalists from the younger generation and other staff members have received guidance and mentorship from her,’ he added. He emphasized Azlina’s active role in 2025, especially in Bernama’s coverage of ASEAN-related events, which were significant that year.

In her retirement speech, Azlina expressed her appreciation to Bernama for the opportunity to hold a position at the highest management level. She reflected on her career trajectory, which began when she joined Bernama in 1991 after completing a six-month industrial training programme. Her roles included serving as an economic reporter from 1991 to 2000, a Bahasa Melayu sub-editor at the economic desk from 2000 to 2015, and working at News Service from 2015 to 2020.

Azlina also held the position of economic desk chief sub-editor from 2020 to 2023 and economic desk executive editor from 2023 to 2024 before becoming deputy editor-in-chief of the economic desk from March 2024 until her retirement. She fondly mentioned, ‘I also got to know many Bernama colleagues through the Bowling Club. I will miss this place. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve here and regard Bernama as my second home.’