Bernama

Bernama traces its roots to 1959 when the Malay Journalist Association on 30 March have adopted a resolution that urging the Federal Government to set up a news agency that could contribute to the "furtherance of the national interests and of understanding between Malaya and other nations".{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19590330-1.2.64|title=Journalists call for Malayan news agency|publisher=The Straits Times|date=30 March 1959|access-date=9 January 2017|page=5|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109064445/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19590330-1.2.64|url-status=live}}

In 1962, the then-Director of Information Services, Mohamed Sopiee felt that the Malayan press "should get together and run a national news agency on a cooperative basis" and insisted that the "news in this country properly collected and sent out to other countries".{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19620430-1.2.31|title=Call for a news agency on co-op basis|publisher=The Straits Times|date=30 April 1962|access-date=9 January 2017|page=5|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109062724/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19620430-1.2.31|url-status=live}} On 14 July the same year, the Malayan press and media practitioners decided in principle to create a news agency, which will be a "cooperative, non-profit making and independent organisation" and "promote the free flow of news within the country and true understand of Malaya abroad".{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19620714-1.2.118|title=A national news agency decision|publisher=The Straits Times|date=14 July 1962|access-date=9 January 2017|page=24|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109062726/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19620714-1.2.118|url-status=live}} Sadao Roy Otake, the executive news editor of Japanese news agency, Kyodo News Agency fled to Malaya on 26 November to help in forming the national news agency.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19621126-1.2.102|title=EXPERT ARRIVES FOR NATIONAL NEWS AGENCY PROJECT|publisher=The Straits Times|date=26 November 1962|access-date=9 January 2017|page=11|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109084729/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19621126-1.2.102|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19621115-1.2.87|title=Editor to advise on agency|publisher=The Straits Times|date=15 November 1962|access-date=9 January 2017|page=11|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109084727/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19621115-1.2.87|url-status=live}} He said that the formation of the unnamed Malayan news agency as a non-profit organisation raising concern without the interference from the Government and demanded that Malaysia, known as Malaya at that time, needed a news agency to disseminate news to Malayan people and the rest of the world.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19621202-1.2.87|title=National news agency will not make any profit|publisher=The Straits Times|date=2 December 1962|access-date=9 January 2017|page=14|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109084728/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19621202-1.2.87|url-status=live}} He also disclosed that the unnamed news agency of Malaya is expected to be launched by August 1963, a month prior to what would have been the formation of Malaysia.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19621229-1.2.127|title='By August' date for that news agency|publisher=The Straits Times|date=29 December 1962|access-date=9 January 2017|page=20|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109084729/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19621229-1.2.127|url-status=live}}

The then-Deputy Prime Minister, Abdul Razak Hussein on 5 August 1965 announced that the Federal Government agreed to set up a news agency as soon as possible,{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19650805-1.2.8|title=Kantor berita —BERNAMA|publisher=Berita Harian|date=5 August 1965|access-date=10 January 2017|page=1|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110043941/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19650805-1.2.8|url-status=live}} revealing the Bernama name to the public.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19650805-1.2.9|title='Bernama' name of our news agency|publisher=The Straits Times|date=5 August 1965|access-date=11 January 2017|page=1|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111022521/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19650805-1.2.9|url-status=live}} In November, the then-Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Senu Abdul Rahman announced the establishment of Bernama,{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19651113-1.2.39|title=BERNAMA di-mulai tahun hadapan|publisher=Berita Harian|date=13 November 1965|access-date=7 January 2017|page=5|archive-date=7 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107093358/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19651113-1.2.39|url-status=live}} and expected to launch in 1966,{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19661225-1.2.22|title=WAJAH BERNAMA|publisher=Berita Harian|date=25 December 1966|access-date=7 January 2017|page=4|archive-date=7 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107143036/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19661225-1.2.22|url-status=live}} or in February 1967 in the following three phases:{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19661212-1.2.12|title='BERNAMA' DI-LANCHAR DALAM TIGA PERINGKAT|publisher=Berita Harian|date=12 December 1966|access-date=7 January 2017|page=2|archive-date=7 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107092550/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19661212-1.2.12|url-status=live}}

• Phase 1: Recruiting officers who would operate the agency.
• Phase 2: Carry out smaller tasks to send news to the local newspapers.
• Phase 3: Sending correspondents to certain cities in the world.

A white paper containing a proposal to establish a news agency received approval from the Cabinet in July 1965.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19660905-1.2.47|title=Kantor Berita Nasional bermula akhir tahun|publisher=Berita Harian|date=5 September 1966|access-date=9 January 2017|page=5|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110043941/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19660905-1.2.47|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19650722-1.2.63|title=Kantor berita yang nasional ta' lama lagi|publisher=Berita Harian|date=22 July 1965|access-date=10 January 2017|page=5|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110043944/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19650722-1.2.63|url-status=live}} D.J. Dallas, an international news specialist from Reuters was sent by UNESCO to investigate each aspects of Bernama's establishment thoroughly.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19660113-1.2.57|title=Pakar UNESCO tiba untok penubohan BERNAMA|publisher=Berita Harian|date=13 January 1966|access-date=9 January 2017|page=5|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109042423/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19660113-1.2.57|url-status=live}} The upcoming news agency will be operated in two languages, Malay and English.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19661026-1.2.86|title=Bernama news in 2 languages|publisher=The Straits Times|date=26 October 1966|access-date=9 January 2017|page=13|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109133530/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19661026-1.2.86|url-status=live}} On 22 December 1966, the establishment of Bernama was approved by the Cabinet.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19661222-1.2.30|title=Bernama gets the go-ahead|publisher=The Straits Times|date=22 December 1966|access-date=11 January 2017|page=7|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111022520/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19661222-1.2.30|url-status=live}} It also revealed that Bernama will incorporate a new system called teleprinter connection system which will "incorporated between its office in Kuala Lumpur and its branch in Sabah and Sarawak".{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19661222-1.2.6|title=BERNAMA akan menggunakan sistem hubongan radio-teleprinter|publisher=Berita Harian|date=22 December 1966|access-date=7 January 2017|page=1|archive-date=7 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107092549/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19661222-1.2.6|url-status=live}} A bill on Bernama's establishment was tabled to the Dewan Rakyat on 19 January 1967;{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19670118-1.2.7|title=Rang untok Bernama di-bentang Khamis|publisher=Berita Harian|date=18 January 1967|access-date=7 January 2017|page=1|archive-date=7 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107140050/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19670118-1.2.7|url-status=live}} vital changes to the bill were made when Senu move important amendments to Bernama.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19670127-1.2.112|title=Bernama: Vital changes made to Bill|publisher=The Straits Times|date=27 January 1967|access-date=9 January 2017|page=20|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109134813/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19670127-1.2.112|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19670224-1.2.113|title=BERNAMA BILL: 'VIEWS OF ALL' REINSTATED|publisher=The Straits Times|date=24 February 1967|access-date=9 January 2017|page=16|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109134814/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19670224-1.2.113|url-status=live}} However, the bill was amended again in which the new amendment replaced the old amendment that distributed before. The new bill ensure Bernama could provide news content with "credible and accurate, without touching public, national interests and community's views".{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19670224-1.2.41|title=Rang undang2 kantor berita nasional di-pinda lagi|publisher=Berita Harian|date=24 February 1967|access-date=10 January 2017|page=5|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110043945/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19670224-1.2.41|url-status=live}} The bill passed on 8 March 1967.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19670308-1.2.24.1|title=SENU: Our newspapers were not dragged into joining BERNAMA|publisher=Eastern Sun|date=8 March 1967|access-date=7 January 2017|page=10|archive-date=7 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107093359/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19670308-1.2.24.1|url-status=live}} Senu said that the formation of Bernama is "not intended to blocked the press freedom", but instead to "developing news contents even more".{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19670308-1.2.41|title=Senu: Kita mesti ada kantor berita sendiri|publisher=Berita Harian|date=8 March 1967|access-date=9 January 2017|page=5|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109060959/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19670308-1.2.41|url-status=live}} The Dewan Rakyat assured that Bernama will be an "independent, corporate body and not a government news agency".{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitsbudget19670315-1.2.48|title=Bernama will be independent|publisher=The Straits Budget|date=5 March 1967|access-date=9 January 2017|page=9|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109090345/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitsbudget19670315-1.2.48|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19670308-1.2.32|title=Senu's pledge: Bernama will be independent|publisher=The Straits Times|date=8 March 1967|access-date=9 January 2017|page=5|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109090348/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19670308-1.2.32|url-status=live}}

Bernama was established under the Act of Parliament on 6 April 1967 and launched a day prior to what would have been 10th anniversary of Malaysia's independence, on 30 August 1967 and officiated by the then-Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman.Sources on Bernama's establishment and launching:

• {{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19670831-1.2.40|title=Bernama lahir di-iringi do'a restu|publisher=Berita Harian|date=31 August 1967|access-date=7 January 2017|page=5|archive-date=7 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107143037/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19670831-1.2.40|url-status=live}}
• {{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19670831-1.2.76|title=Bernama—Malaysia's own news agency is launched|publisher=The Straits Times|date=31 August 1967|access-date=9 January 2017|page=15|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109042421/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19670831-1.2.76|url-status=live}}
• {{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19670901-1.2.30|title=Mengalu2kan Bernama|publisher=Berita Harian|date=1 September 1967|access-date=7 January 2017|page=4|archive-date=7 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107143037/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19670901-1.2.30|url-status=live}}
• {{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19670820-1.2.12.27|title=Tunku will launch Bernama on Aug. 30|publisher=Eastern Sun|date=20 August 1967|access-date=9 January 2017|page=4|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109060958/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19670820-1.2.12.27|url-status=live}} Abdul Aziz Yeop become its first chairman.{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/2393791/berakhirnya-cengkaman-penjajah-inggeris|title=Berakhirnya cengkaman penjajah Inggeris|author=Rashidah Ibrahim|publisher=Berita Harian|date=26 August 1991|accessdate=14 December 2021}} In September 1967, Bernama was invited to be the member of the Organization of Asia-Pacific News Agencies (OANA){{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19670918-1.2.21|title=BERNAMA dapat undangan|publisher=Berita Harian|date=18 September 1967|access-date=7 January 2017|page=2|archive-date=7 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107085722/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19670918-1.2.21|url-status=live}} and officially became a full member a year later, in September 1968.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19680922-1.2.13.22|title=Bernama is now member of OANA|publisher=Eastern Sun|date=22 September 1968|access-date=7 January 2017|page=4|archive-date=7 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107085721/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19680922-1.2.13.22|url-status=live}} A month later, Bernama is looking for three top executive posts to fill the position.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitsbudget19671004-1.2.14|title=Bernama seeking three top executives|publisher=The Straits Budget|date=4 October 1967|access-date=9 January 2017|page=5|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109060957/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitsbudget19671004-1.2.14|url-status=live}}

On 9 April 1968, Bernama announced that it would start operations by 1 May,{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19680409-1.2.14.2|title=Bernama to start operations towards end of May|publisher=Eastern Sun|date=9 April 1968|access-date=9 January 2017|page=2|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109090346/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19680409-1.2.14.2|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19680412-1.2.17.54|title=Bernama to start operations on May 20|publisher=Eastern Sun|date=12 April 1968|access-date=9 January 2017|page=10|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109092642/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19680412-1.2.17.54|url-status=live}} but it officially commenced its operations on 20 May.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19680521-1.2.13.1|title=Bernama starts operations|publisher=Eastern Sun|date=21 May 1968|access-date=7 January 2017|page=2|archive-date=7 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107140048/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19680521-1.2.13.1|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19680520-1.2.37|title=Selamat bertugas|publisher=Berita Harian|date=20 May 1968|access-date=9 January 2017|page=4|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109090347/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19680520-1.2.37|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19680520-1.2.12.27|title=Tunku wishes Bernama every success|publisher=Eastern Sun|date=20 May 1968|access-date=9 January 2017|page=4|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110062354/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19680520-1.2.12.27|url-status=live}} At the time it began operations, Bernama has only 20 staffs with its headquarters located at the four-room bungalow at Jalan Pekeliling, Kuala Lumpur.{{cite news|url=https://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news/196975/bernama-staying-relevant-55-years-on/|title=Bernama staying relevant 55 years on|author=Anthea Peter|publisher=Daily Express|date=3 August 2022|access-date=7 January 2023|archive-date=10 August 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220810045206/http://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news/196975/bernama-staying-relevant-55-years-on/|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19680303-1.2.11|title=Senu lawat BERNAMA|publisher=Berita Harian|date=3 March 1968|access-date=9 January 2017|page=1|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109042423/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19680303-1.2.11|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19671123-1.2.13.8|title=Bernama's Board to meet at own home|publisher=Eastern Sun|date=23 November 1967|access-date=9 January 2017|page=3|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109060959/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19671123-1.2.13.8|url-status=live}} In its inaugural meeting on 30 July, the then-Secretary to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Junid Abd Rahim said that the Government will spend RM500,000 for Bernama, which was part of the RM1.5 million launching grant to Bernama.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19670730-1.2.28|title=$500,000 kick-off for Bernama|publisher=The Straits Times|date=30 July 1967|access-date=9 January 2017|page=3|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109060957/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19670730-1.2.28|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19670730-1.2.9.16|title=BERNAMA: Govt. agrees to first instalment of $500,000|publisher=Eastern Sun|date=30 July 1967|access-date=9 January 2017|page=4|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109092644/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19670730-1.2.9.16|url-status=live}}

In June 1968, Bernama received 9 subscribers to its news service.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19680630-1.2.15.20|title=Bernama gets 9 new subscribers|publisher=Eastern Sun|date=30 June 1968|access-date=7 January 2017|page=2|archive-date=7 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107140049/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19680630-1.2.15.20|url-status=live}} In December the same year, it sought assistance from the Thomson Foundation for its expansion programme.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19681202-1.2.15.22|title=Bernama may seek help from Thomson Foundation|publisher=Eastern Sun|date=2 December 1968|access-date=9 January 2017|page=4|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109042420/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19681202-1.2.15.22|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitsbudget19681211-1.2.23|title=BERNAMA MAY ASK AID FROM BRITAIN|publisher=The Straits Budget|date=11 December 1968|access-date=9 January 2017|page=6|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109060956/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitsbudget19681211-1.2.23|url-status=live}}

In 1971, Bernama partnered with Indonesian news agency, Antara for news partnership.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19711003-1.2.22|title=BERNAMA, ANTARA, DI-USULKAN CHAPAI TARAF ANTARA BANGSA|publisher=Berita Harian|date=3 October 1971|access-date=7 January 2017|page=3|archive-date=7 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107143038/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19711003-1.2.22|url-status=live}} In 1972, Bernama planned to take control on foreign news while it was in talks for sole distribution rights in Malaysia with four international news agencies, including Reuters and Associated Press.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/newnation19720816-1.2.6|title=Bernama plans news takeover|author1=V.K. Chin|author2=Lee Yew Meng|publisher=New Nation|date=16 August 1972|access-date=7 January 2017|page=1|archive-date=7 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107143038/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/newnation19720816-1.2.6|url-status=live}}

In 1978, Bernama planned to introduce a photo service by 1979 and a radio teletype service by 1981. These services were meant for overseas transmissions purposes.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19781023-1.2.74.8|title=Bernama plans to expand|publisher=The Straits Times|date=23 October 1978|access-date=9 January 2017|page=12|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109092643/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19781023-1.2.74.8|url-status=live}} In 1979, Bernama proposed its plan to open its office in Manila, Philippines before the year-end. It would be the news agency's first regional office outside of Malaysia.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19790521-1.2.52.2|title=Bernama plans to open office in Manila|publisher=The Straits Times|date=21 May 1979|access-date=9 January 2017|page=12|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109092642/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19790521-1.2.52.2|url-status=live}}

In 1981, Bernama was selected as a host for the four-day Asean news agencies conferences which expected to held in October,{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19810624-1.2.3.3|title=Tuan rumah|publisher=Berita Harian Singapura|date=24 June 1981|access-date=10 January 2017|page=1|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110063610/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19810624-1.2.3.3|url-status=live}} which took place officially from 2 to 5 November and attended by 23 international news agencies.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19810830-1.2.24.8|title=Bernama to host talks|publisher=The Straits Times|date=30 August 1981|access-date=12 January 2017|page=6|archive-date=12 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240112030308/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19810830-1.2.24.8|url-status=live}}

In September 1982, Bernama partnered with Kyodo News Agency to launch a 24-hour communications link for better news exchange between the two agencies.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19820902-1.2.59.8|title=News link to Kyodo agency|publisher=The Straits Times|date=2 September 1982|access-date=11 January 2017|page=14|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111051456/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19820902-1.2.59.8|url-status=live}} Days later, Bernama opened its bureau in Singapore and managed by two Bernama officials.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19820915-1.2.52|title=Bernama tubuh sebuah biro di S'pura|publisher=Berita Harian|date=15 September 1982|access-date=11 January 2017|page=8|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111051456/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19820915-1.2.52|url-status=live}}

On 1 February 1983, Bernama held a new daily news file on developments in ASEAN countries.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19830124-1.2.2.5|title=Berita baru Bernama|publisher=Berita Harian|date=24 January 1983|access-date=11 January 2017|page=1|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111060838/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19830124-1.2.2.5|url-status=live}}

In July 1983, the Government decided to turn Bernama as a sole distributor of foreign news from international news outlets.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830708-1.2.66.2|title=Role for Bernama surprises editors|publisher=The Straits Times|date=8 July 1983|access-date=11 January 2017|page=19|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111022524/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830708-1.2.66.2|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19830704-1.2.36.7|title=Bernama to be sole channel for foreign news|publisher=The Straits Times|date=4 July 1983|access-date=10 January 2017|page=11|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110063610/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19830704-1.2.36.7|url-status=live}} Editors and publishers in the country have been consulted to Bernama following the move.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830810-1.2.53.4|title=Editors and publishers 'were consulted on Bernama move'|publisher=The Straits Times|date=10 August 1983|access-date=11 January 2017|page=17|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111062357/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830810-1.2.53.4|url-status=live}} A month later, it was reported that Bernama would likely to sold to private investors. Information Minister at that time, Adib Adam clarified that the privatisation of Bernama could run on a "profit-oriented basis".{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830811-1.2.49.3|title=Bernama may go private|publisher=The Straits Times|date=11 August 1983|access-date=10 January 2020|page=12|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110155703/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830811-1.2.49.3|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830830-1.2.13.7|title=ACROSS THE CAUSEWAY|publisher=The Straits Times|date=30 August 1983|access-date=10 January 2017|page=2|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110155702/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830830-1.2.13.7|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830830-1.2.44.1|title=Bernama may go private: Minister|publisher=The Straits Times|date=30 August 1983|access-date=10 January 2020|page=11|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110155704/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830830-1.2.44.1|url-status=live}} In September that year, Bernama steps into foreign news distribution plan, inline with the government's decision to channel foreign news to Malaysian newspapers via its platform, albeit received objection from newspaper editors.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830904-1.2.19.3|title=Bernama goes ahead with foreign news distribution plan|publisher=The Straits Times|date=4 September 1983|access-date=11 January 2017|page=7|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111022524/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830904-1.2.19.3|url-status=live}} It also took the responsibility to provide a teletext service that could help to generate its income.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19831019-1.2.60.6|title=Bernama to get teletex|publisher=The Straits Times|date=19 October 1983|access-date=11 January 2017|page=17|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111055135/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19831019-1.2.60.6|url-status=live}}

In January 1984, Bernama signed an agreement with the German news agency, Deutsche Presse-Agentur (DPA) to enter a commercial arrangement for the distribution of the latter's service.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19840103-1.2.24.1|title=W. German news agency links up with Bernama|publisher=The Straits Times|date=3 January 1984|access-date=10 January 2017|page=13|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110060452/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19840103-1.2.24.1|url-status=live}} In February, the news agency announced that it will introduce an AP-Telerate financial information service.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19840213-1.2.14.8|title=Bernama to introduce AP-Telerate service|publisher=The Business Times|date=13 February 1984|access-date=11 January 2017|page=4|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111033600/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19840213-1.2.14.8|url-status=live}}

On 16 March, Bernama signed an agreement with the United Press International (UPI) for the distribution of the latter's news and picture services in Malaysia by Bernama.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19840211-1.2.29.3|title=Bernama to file UPI reports and photos|publisher=The Straits Times|date=11 February 1984|access-date=10 January 2017|page=19|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110050855/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19840211-1.2.29.3|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19840317-1.2.6.7|title=Bernama-UPI deal|publisher=The Business Times|date=17 March 1984|access-date=10 January 2017|page=1|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110050852/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19840317-1.2.6.7|url-status=live}} Starting on 1 May 1984, Bernama will transform as a standalone news distributor from all international news agencies operated in Malaysia.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19830704-1.2.36.7|title=Usaha buat Bernama pengedar tunggal berita asing|publisher=Berita Harian Singapura|date=4 July 1983|access-date=10 January 2017|page=7|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110063610/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19830704-1.2.36.7|url-status=live}} At the same time, it moved its new headquarters from MCOBA Building, Jalan Syed Putra to Jalan Tun Razak.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19840503-1.2.30.2|title=Bernama dengan bangunan sendiri|publisher=Berita Harian|date=3 May 1984|access-date=11 January 2017|page=4|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111051453/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19840503-1.2.30.2|url-status=live}}

Bernama became the first news agency in Asia to incorporate editorial computer in its operation in 1984.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19840618-1.2.29.7|title=Bernama on-line|publisher=The Straits Times|date=18 June 1984|access-date=12 January 2017|page=13|archive-date=12 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240112030305/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19840618-1.2.29.7|url-status=live}}

In September, Bernama launched the Bernama AP-Dow Jones Telerate Service, a financial news service that allowed international business community to obtain access to global information on the world's financial market.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19840710-1.2.47.2|title=New news service|publisher=The Business Times|date=10 July 1984|access-date=11 January 2017|page=16|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111051454/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19840710-1.2.47.2|url-status=live}}

In November of the same year, Bernama pivoted towards teletext service with the launch of the Bernama Newscan service which provides up-to-date news via video terminals. The service made available in Malay and English and targeted to hotels, banks and other business premises.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/singmonitor19841109-1.2.13.7|title=Bernama goes into the videotext business|publisher=Singapore Monitor|date=9 November 1984|access-date=10 January 2017|page=12|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110060452/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/singmonitor19841109-1.2.13.7|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19841110-1.2.22.6.5|title=Video news service|publisher=The Straits Times|date=10 November 1984|access-date=12 January 2017|page=10|archive-date=12 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240112030307/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19841110-1.2.22.6.5|url-status=live}} Days later, the then-Information Minister, Rais Yatim announced that Bernama would likely to be privatised.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19841126-1.2.22.5|title=Operations of news agency may be privatised|publisher=The Straits Times|date=26 November 1984|access-date=10 January 2017|page=9|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110142421/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19841126-1.2.22.5|url-status=live}}

In September 1985, Rais confirmed that the agency will be corporatised into a private entity, pending approval from the Government, citing that it is "being studied",{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19850919-1.2.22.3|title=Bernama may go private, says minister|publisher=The Straits Times|date=19 September 1985|access-date=10 January 2017|page=9|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110050851/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19850919-1.2.22.3|url-status=live}} including the review of the Bernama Act.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19850919-1.2.28.11|title=Privatisation of Bernama|publisher=The Business Times|date=19 September 1985|access-date=10 January 2017|page=11|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110050853/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19850919-1.2.28.11|url-status=live}} The plan was later abandoned.

On 14 December 1985, Bernama in collaboration with Xinhua News Agency to signing their inaugural bilateral news exchange agreement.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19851217-1.2.47.6|title=Bernama links up with Xinhua|publisher=The Business Times|date=17 December 1985|access-date=3 February 2017|page=16|archive-date=3 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240203090041/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19851217-1.2.47.6|url-status=live}}

In 1986, Bernama began supplying news materials, articles and information on current development to Malaysian diasporas.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19860116-1.2.22.3|title=Bernama to supply news abroad|publisher=The Straits Times|date=16 January 1986|access-date=11 January 2017|page=11|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111022525/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19860116-1.2.22.3|url-status=live}} The cost of sending news contents to Malaysian diasporas would be bore by the Government.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19860411-1.2.23.8|title=Govt to pay for sending news to students abroad|publisher=The Straits Times|date=11 April 1986|access-date=11 January 2017|page=11|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111022523/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19860411-1.2.23.8|url-status=live}} It also signed an agreement with Sime Darby's wholly-owned subsidiary, Sime Darby Systems to create a nationwide voice grade communications network which covers all major towns in Malaysia.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19860501-1.2.36.19|title=Bernama and Sime sign network pact|publisher=The Straits Times|date=1 May 1986|access-date=11 January 2017|page=26|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111051457/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19860501-1.2.36.19|url-status=live}}

The Government in September 1987 have considered the idea to amend the Bernama Act in which Bernama would likely to be "profit-oriented" organisation rather than a non-profit organisation and allowed the agency to operated commercially.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19870930-1.2.23.6|title=Act may be amended to let Bernama run commercially|publisher=The Straits Times|date=30 September 1987|access-date=10 January 2017|page=10|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110060451/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19870930-1.2.23.6|url-status=live}} In October that year, Bernama set up an online real-time information database, known as Bernama Livecom. The service aims to provide packaged business information to all business premises.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19870918-1.2.39.10|title=Bernama to start information service|publisher=The Business Times|date=18 September 1987|access-date=11 January 2017|page=17|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111051455/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19870918-1.2.39.10|url-status=live}}

On 13 April 1988, Bernama partnered with the Turkish news agency, Anadolu News Agency as part of its expansion of the international news exchange network.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19880414-1.2.27.2|title=Bernama links up with Turkish news agency|publisher=The Straits Times|date=14 April 1988|access-date=11 January 2017|page=12|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111051457/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19880414-1.2.27.2|url-status=live}}

In December, Bernama secured RM16.5 loan from two banks, one of them is Permata Chartered Merchant Bank, to recover the existing loan for its headquarters in Jalan Tun Razak.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19881214-1.2.23.1|title=Bernama gets M$16.5m loan from two banks|publisher=The Business Times|date=14 December 1988|access-date=10 January 2017|page=7|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110050854/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19881214-1.2.23.1|url-status=live}}

In 1989, Bernama began to increased its presence in the electronic media marketplace by launching Bernama Monitor and Newscan II, awhile at the same time, it acquires 400 personal computers for both services.{{cite news|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=x1lPAAAAIBAJ&dq=Bernama&pg=PA25&article_id=5956,2119537|title=Bernama to buy 400 PCs for news services|publisher=New Straits Times|date=23 November 1989|access-date=25 July 2019}}

On 27 February 1990, the Government tabled a bill at the Dewan Rakyat to grant Bernama a specific rights to determine the types of news materials from international news agencies which it "considered suitable for local publications".{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19900228-1.2.7|title=Hak bagi Bernama pilih bahan berita luar negeri|publisher=Berita Harian|date=28 February 1990|access-date=10 January 2017|page=1|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110134019/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19900228-1.2.7|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/stoverseas19900303-1.2.9.6|title=Govt tables Bill to give Bernama more control|publisher=The Straits Times|date=3 March 1990|access-date=11 January 2017|page=10|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111033601/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/stoverseas19900303-1.2.9.6|url-status=live}} Ahead of the privatisation of Bernama, the then-Information Minister, Mohamed Rahmat said that the proposed privatisation will only involves certain aspects of its operations.{{cite news|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=VK5UAAAAIBAJ&dq=Bernama&pg=PA6&article_id=4792,1022458|title=Certain operations of Bernama to go private|publisher=New Straits Times|date=19 May 1990|access-date=25 July 2019}}

In June the same year, the amendment of the 1967 Bernama Act was tabled again in Parliament. The amendment was "not intended to restrict, control or abuse press freedom in the country".{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19900612-1.2.26.8.7|title=Bernama Act's changes 'not to restrict press'|publisher=The Straits Times|date=12 June 1990|access-date=10 January 2017|page=14|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110132822/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19900612-1.2.26.8.7|url-status=live}} A day later, Bernama was given sole rights to receive and distribute news in the country and allowed to ventured into business to ensure it is self-financed after the Parliament passed amendments of the act.{{cite news|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8sBUAAAAIBAJ&dq=Bernama&pg=PA4&article_id=6840,3375077|title=Bill giving Bernama exclusive rights passed|publisher=New Straits Times|date=12 June 1990|access-date=25 July 2019}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19900613-1.2.25.1|title=Bernama given sole right to distribute news|author=Kalimullah Hassan|publisher=The Straits Times|date=13 June 1990|access-date=10 January 2017|page=14|archive-date=21 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231221034840/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19900613-1.2.25.1|url-status=live}}

In January 1991, Bernama partnered with Hongkong Bank to launch a daily facsimile news service, known as Bernama-Hongkong Bank Five O'Clock Digest.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19910103-1.2.21.2|title=Bernama and Hongkong Bank launch news service|publisher=The Business Times|date=3 January 1991|access-date=11 January 2017|page=7|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111153916/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19910103-1.2.21.2|url-status=live}}

The plan for privatisation of Bernama revived in September 1991 when its Editor-in-Chief at that time, Abdul Rahman Sulaiman said that the agency will be undergoing a major restructuring as part of its preparation to transform itself into a private entity.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19910930-1.2.27.6|title=Bernama to be revamped to prepare it for privatisation|publisher=The Straits Times|date=30 September 1991|access-date=10 January 2017|page=17|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110132824/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19910930-1.2.27.6|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19910930-1.2.12.7|title=Bernama to be revamped ahead of privatisation|publisher=The Business Times|date=30 September 1991|access-date=10 January 2017|page=3|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110142823/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19910930-1.2.12.7|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19910919-1.2.14.9.2|title=Malaysia to privatise Bernama|publisher=The Business Times|date=19 September 1991|access-date=11 January 2017|page=3|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111022522/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19910919-1.2.14.9.2|url-status=live}} By early 1992, Bernama inked a joint venture agreement with Pegi Malaysia's wholly-owned subsidiary, Applied Information Management Services to marketed a new real-time financial information service, known as the Information Edge. The joint venture was launched on 21 January 1992 and officiated by the then-Information Minister, Mohamed Rahmat.{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/2465590/bernama-in-new-information-venture|title=Bernama in new information venture|publisher=Business Times|date=21 January 1992|accessdate=14 December 2020}}

In March 1992, Bernama launched a personal computer-based technical analysis service on price movements on the Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange (now Bursa Malaysia) which targeted for investors.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19920318-1.2.17.6|title=Bernama launches PC-based technical analysis of KLSE|publisher=The Business Times|date=18 March 1992|access-date=12 January 2017|page=6|archive-date=12 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240112030305/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19920318-1.2.17.6|url-status=live}}

The then-Deputy Prime Minister, Ghafar Baba confirmed that the Government will corporatised Bernama by the end of 1993 and will privatised within 3 years while clarified that the move will "help enhance the country's communications facilities".{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19930204-1.2.25.8|title=Bernama to be privatised within 3 years|publisher=The Straits Times|date=4 February 1993|access-date=11 January 2017|page=17|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111022525/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19930204-1.2.25.8|url-status=live}} Bernama has set up its third regional office in Hanoi, Vietnam and began operations on 1 November 1993.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19931102-1.2.24.4|title=Bernama opens third overseas bureau in Hanoi|publisher=The Straits Times|date=2 November 1993|access-date=11 November 2017|page=14|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111030938/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19931102-1.2.24.4|url-status=live}}

In 1994, a proposal from Bernama senior executives for a management buyout of the agency was rejected by the Government.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19940714-1.2.72.56|title=KL rejects plan for management buy-out of national news agency|author=Kalimullah Hassan|publisher=The Straits Times|date=14 July 1994|access-date=10 January 2017|page=39|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110142422/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19940714-1.2.72.56|url-status=live}} The agency collaborated with telecommunications company, Celcom in August 1994 to launch a wireless stock data network, known as Wireless Stock Information Services which allow investors to access online trading data information accurately.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19940809-1.2.51.38|title=Celcom and Bernama to offer wireless KL stock data network|publisher=The Straits Times|date=9 August 1994|access-date=12 January 2017|page=35|archive-date=12 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240112030306/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19940809-1.2.51.38|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19940809-1.2.27.8.9|title=Celcom, Bernama offer wireless stock data service|publisher=The Business Times|date=9 August 1994|access-date=12 January 2017|page=12|archive-date=12 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240112030308/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19940809-1.2.27.8.9|url-status=live}}

The plan for Bernama's privatisation become the subject of discussion again when Information Minister at that time, Mohamed Rahmat in 1995 said that the agency would be corporatised as a private commercial entity before being privatised in 1997.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19951223-1.2.33.4.5|title=BERNAMA MOVE|publisher=The Straits Times|date=23 December 1995|access-date=11 January 2017|page=22|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111030937/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19951223-1.2.33.4.5|url-status=live}} He also pointed out that the agency "will still have to discharged its social obligations in news coverage" when Bernama become a corporate entity upon its privatisation.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19960401-1.2.42.5.7|title='BE CREDIBLE'|publisher=The Straits Times|date=1 April 1996|access-date=11 January 2017|page=29|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111062357/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19960401-1.2.42.5.7|url-status=live}}

In 1997, the Government decided to withdraw the monopoly of Bernama as a distributor of foreign news in the country.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19970612-1.2.40.3|title=Bernama to lose monopoly as news agency|publisher=The Straits Times|date=12 June 1997|access-date=10 January 2017|page=31|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110142421/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19970612-1.2.40.3|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19970612-1.2.18.6|title=Govt to end Bernama's control of foreign news flow|publisher=The Business Times|date=12 June 1997|access-date=10 January 2017|page=7|archive-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110142423/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19970612-1.2.18.6|url-status=live}}

Bernama began reporting using the audio-visual medium with the opening of its audio-visual division in September 1998.

In 2000, former New Straits Times editor-in-chief Abdul Kadir Jasin submitted his proposal to take over Bernama, but later withdrew his decision to acquire the news agency.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes20001002-1.2.23.8|title=Ex-editor of NST plans to take over Bernama: report|publisher=The Business Times|date=2 October 2000|access-date=11 January 2017|page=13|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111130945/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes20001002-1.2.23.8|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes20001002-1.2.32.5|title=Ex-editor plans to take over Bernama|publisher=The Straits Times|date=2 October 2000|access-date=11 January 2017|page=25|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111130947/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes20001002-1.2.32.5|url-status=live}} Aside of Abdul Kadir, three other individuals also proposed to acquire Bernama. One of them is Jalaluddin Baharuddin, a former press secretary of the then-Prime Minister, Mahathir Mohamad.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes20001003-1.2.27.3|title=Bid for Bernama, state TV, radio submitted|publisher=The Business Times|date=3 October 2000|access-date=11 January 2017|page=15|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111130946/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes20001003-1.2.27.3|url-status=live}} Jalaluddin and two other individuals later withdrew their decision to take over Bernama.

In April 2001, Bernama entered a strategic partnership with Amanah Capital Berhad for website content exchange partnerships.{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/2045185/kerjasama-amanah-capital-bernama|title=Kerjasama Amanah Capital, Bernama|author=Ahmad Fiesal Othman|publisher=Berita Harian|date=11 April 2001|access-date=12 January 2021|archive-date=12 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240112095229/https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/2045185/kerjasama-amanah-capital-bernama|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/3414072/perkongsian-acp-bernama|title=Perkongsian ACP, Bernama|publisher=Harian Metro|date=11 April 2001|access-date=12 January 2021|archive-date=12 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240112095230/https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/3414072/perkongsian-acp-bernama|url-status=live}} In November, Bernama partnered with Astro where the latter will air Bernama news on all Astro's in-house channels.{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/3884454/astro-to-broadcast-bernama-news|title=Astro to broadcast Bernama news|publisher=The Malay Mail|date=6 November 2001|access-date=6 February 2021|archive-date=6 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240206133143/https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/3884454/astro-to-broadcast-bernama-news|url-status=live}}

In 2002, Bernama launched an Arabic news service as part of its plan to disseminate information to West Asia and several other African countries.{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/2073841/bernama-perkenal-khidmat-berita-arab|title=Bernama perkenal khidmat berita Arab|publisher=Berita Harian|date=25 October 2002|access-date=12 January 2021|archive-date=12 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240112155504/https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/2073841/bernama-perkenal-khidmat-berita-arab|url-status=live}}

Bernama and Algerian news agency, Algerie Presse Service (APS) signed a news exchange agreement on 12 August 2003 with a purpose to enhance information dissemination between the two countries.{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/2116053/mou-aps-bernama-pererat-hubungan|title=MoU APS, Bernama pererat hubungan|publisher=Berita Harian|date=13 August 2003|access-date=26 January 2021|archive-date=26 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240126015742/https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/2116053/mou-aps-bernama-pererat-hubungan|url-status=live}}

The formation of NAM News Agency, set to be run by Bernama, was planned at the Kuala Lumpur meeting of information ministers of Non-Aligned Movement member countries in November 2005, with operations set to start 2007.{{cite news |title=NAM agency to counter Western media |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/today20051122-2.2.18.1?qt=nam,%20news,%20network&q=NAM%20News%20Network |access-date=15 April 2024 |work=Today (Afternoon Edition) |date=22 November 2005 |archive-date=16 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240416190522/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/today20051122-2.2.18.1?qt=nam,%20news,%20network&q=NAM%20News%20Network |url-status=live }}

In 2006, Bernama collaborated again with Indonesian news agency, Antara. By this time, both signed an MoU on selected news translated in Arabic that would be released by Antara for the Gulf countries.{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/2263559/bernama-antara-jalin-kerjasama|title=Bernama, Antara jalin kerjasama|publisher=Berita Harian|date=22 February 2006|access-date=26 January 2021|archive-date=26 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240126022928/https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/2263559/bernama-antara-jalin-kerjasama|url-status=live}} It also expand its operations to India by set up an outpost in New Delhi in which it would make reports on Indian economy.{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/4485218/bernama-expands-to-india|title=Bernama expands to India|author=Habhajan Singh|publisher=Malaysian Business|date=1 December 2006|access-date=26 January 2021|archive-date=26 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240126015744/https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/4485218/bernama-expands-to-india|url-status=live}}

In April 2009, Bernama signed an MoU with the non-profit technology think tank, Malaysian Industry-Government Group for High Technology (MiGHT) in which the latter was commissioned to provides information, reports and data to the Malaysian public through the agency's library and infolink services.{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/4463164/kerjasama-khidmat-maklumat-data|title=Kerjasama khidmat maklumat, data|publisher=Berita Harian|date=2 April 2009|access-date=26 January 2021|archive-date=26 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240126090232/https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/4463164/kerjasama-khidmat-maklumat-data|url-status=live}}

Bernama and Indonesian news agency, Antara collaborated again in 2011. This time, both the news agencies would partner to produce a documentary with various topics on matters related to both Malaysia and Indonesia.{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/4935631/bernama-antara-tingkat-kerjasama|title=BERNAMA, ANTARA tingkat kerjasama|publisher=Berita Harian|date=12 March 2011|access-date=26 January 2020|archive-date=26 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240126092839/https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/4935631/bernama-antara-tingkat-kerjasama|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/4942908/bernama-antara-terbit-dokumentari|title=BERNAMA, ANTARA terbit dokumentari|author=Shaarani Ismail|publisher=Berita Minggu|date=13 March 2011|access-date=26 January 2020|archive-date=26 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240126092838/https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/4942908/bernama-antara-terbit-dokumentari|url-status=live}}

On 10 November 2011, Bernama launched a pictorial book titled Che Det which revolves on the turning point of Mahathir Mohamad's premiership as the fourth Prime Minister of Malaysia.{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/5191802/bernama-lancar-buku-bergambar-che-det-|title=BERNAMA lancar buku bergambar 'Che Det'|publisher=Berita Harian|date=7 November 2011|access-date=26 January 2020|archive-date=26 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240126133318/https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/5191802/bernama-lancar-buku-bergambar-che-det-|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/5202407/bernama-lancar-buku-che-det-|title=Bernama lancar buku 'Che Det'|publisher=Harian Metro|date=7 November 2011|access-date=26 January 2020|archive-date=26 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240126133316/https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/5202407/bernama-lancar-buku-che-det-|url-status=live}}

In 2014, Bernama launched a weekly business newsreel, known as Malaysia eBiz which provides selected weekly news related to business sector.{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/5531408/bernama-lancar-malaysia-ebiz|title=BERNAMA lancar Malaysia eBiz|publisher=Harian Metro|date=10 January 2014|access-date=26 January 2020|archive-date=26 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240126134941/https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/5531408/bernama-lancar-malaysia-ebiz|url-status=live}}

In 2018, it was announced that Bernama and Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) would merge to form a standalone public broadcasting corporation as part of the government's efforts to reduce operation costs. However, the merger plan was abandoned.Sources on Bernama-RTM proposed merger:

• {{cite news|url=https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/435945|title=Gabungan RTM - Bernama untuk bersaing agensi antarabangsa|author=Nadia Azam|publisher=Malaysiakini|date=26 June 2018|access-date=20 December 2018|archive-date=26 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180726105447/https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/435945|url-status=live}}
• {{cite news|url=https://www.astroawani.com/berita-malaysia/kertas-kerja-gabungan-bernama-rtm-diserah-sebelum-hujung-bulan-180245|title=Kertas kerja gabungan Bernama, RTM diserah sebelum hujung bulan|publisher=Astro Awani|date=12 July 2018|access-date=20 December 2018|archive-date=12 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712100943/http://www.astroawani.com/berita-malaysia/kertas-kerja-gabungan-bernama-rtm-diserah-sebelum-hujung-bulan-180245|url-status=live}}
• {{cite news|url=https://themalaysianreserve.com/2018/06/27/rtm-bernama-merger-on-the-cards/|title=RTM-Bernama merger on the cards|author1=P. Prem Kumar|author2=Alifah Zainuddin|publisher=The Malaysian Reserve|date=27 June 2018|access-date=20 December 2018|archive-date=22 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181022161307/https://themalaysianreserve.com/2018/06/27/rtm-bernama-merger-on-the-cards/|url-status=live}}
• {{cite news|url=https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2018/06/27/report-government-considering-bernama-rtm-merger/|title=Report: Government considering Bernama-RTM merger|publisher=Free Malaysia Today|date=27 June 2018|access-date=20 December 2018|archive-date=31 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181031133758/https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2018/06/27/report-government-considering-bernama-rtm-merger/|url-status=live}}

In conjunction with its 53rd anniversary in 2020, Bernama launches two new columns titled Tinta Minda in Malay and Thoughts in English, which consists of commentaries by experts from diverse backgrounds.{{cite news|url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2020/05/594211/bernama-introduces-new-products-53rd-annivesary|title=Bernama introduces new products on 53rd {{as written|anniv|esary [sic]}}|publisher=New Straits Times|date=20 May 2020|access-date=1 February 2021|archive-date=1 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200601053742/https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2020/05/594211/bernama-introduces-new-products-53rd-annivesary|url-status=live}}

In October 2024, Bernama has appointed as the official media and coordinator of the International Media Center for the 2025 ASEAN Summit.Sources on Bernama's appointment as the official media and coordinator of 2025 ASEAN Summit:

• {{cite news|url=https://www.bernama.com/bm/news.php?id=2352613|title=ASEAN 2025: Bernama Dilantik Media Rasmi, Penyelaras Pusat Media Antarabangsa, RTM Penyiar Rasmi|publisher=Bernama|date=16 October 2024|accessdate=17 October 2024}}
• {{cite news|url=https://www.bernama.com/tv/news.php?id=2352614|title=ASEAN 2025: BERNAMA APPOINTED OFFICIAL MEDIA, INTERNATIONAL MEDIA CENTRE COORDINATOR, RTM OFFICIAL BROADCASTER|publisher=Bernama|date=16 October 2024|accessdate=17 October 2024}}
• {{cite news|url=https://www.bharian.com.my/berita/nasional/2024/10/1311881/asean-2025-bernama-dilantik-media-rasmi-penyelaras-pusat-media|title=ASEAN 2025: Bernama dilantik media rasmi, penyelaras pusat media antarabangsa, RTM penyiar rasmi|publisher=Berita Harian|date=16 October 2024|accessdate=17 October 2024}}
• {{cite news|url=https://www.hmetro.com.my/mutakhir/2024/10/1145113/asean-2025-bernama-dilantik-media-rasmi-penyelaras-pusat-media-antarabangsa|title=Asean 2025: Bernama dilantik media rasmi, penyelaras pusat media antarabangsa, RTM penyiar rasmi|publisher=Harian Metro|date=16 October 2024|accessdate=17 October 2024}}
• {{cite news|url=https://berita.rtm.gov.my/nasional/senarai-berita-nasional/senarai-artikel/rtm-bernama-media-rasmi-kepengerusian-asean-2025|title=RTM, BERNAMA media rasmi Kepengerusian ASEAN 2025|publisher=Berita RTM|date=25 October 2024|accessdate=23 February 2025}}

The agency planned to expand artificial intelligence (AI)-related courses to media staffs in February 2025.{{cite news|url=https://www.bernama.com/en/news.php/politics/sports/news.php?id=2395778|title=Bernama To Expand AI Courses To Behind-the-scene Media Staff, Also To Sabah, Sarawak|publisher=Bernama|date=24 February 2025|accessdate=2 March 2025}}

In March, Bernama began utilising AI technology to produced a 4-minute and 32-second azan video for the Maghrib call to prayer to "enhance the visual and spiritual experience for Muslims, in conjunction with the upcoming Ramadan". The AI-generated azan video began debuted in 2 March 2025 which is the first day of Ramadan on all Bernama's platforms.{{cite news|url=https://www.bernama.com/bm/news.php/politik/news.php?id=2397847|title=Bernama Hasilkan Video Azan Maghrib AI Sempena Ramadan|publisher=Bernama|date=28 February 2025|accessdate=2 March 2025}}{{cite news|url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/03/01/bernama-next-to-use-ai-generated-azan-clip-to-debut-during-ramadan-tomorrow/168346|title=Bernama next to use AI-generated ‘azan’ clip, to debut during Ramadan tomorrow|publisher=Malay Mail|date=1 March 2025|accessdate=2 March 2025}}{{cite news|url=https://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news/253218/bernama-next-to-use-ai-generated-azan-clip-to-debut-during-ramadan-tomorrow/|title=Bernama next to use AI-generated ‘azan’ clip, to debut during Ramadan tomorrow|publisher=Daily Express Malaysia|date=1 March 2025|accessdate=2 March 2025}}

Bernama is a statutory corporation under the Ministry of Communications and is a non-profit organisation that established under the Act of Parliament (1967 Bernama Act).{{cite news|url=https://hariinidalamsejarah.com/peristiwa/detail/3286-pelancaran-pertubuhan-berita-nasional-malaysia-bernama-.html|title=PELANCARAN PERTUBUHAN BERITA NASIONAL MALAYSIA (BERNAMA)|publisher=Hari Ini Dalam Sejarah|date=30 August 1967|access-date=12 January 2019|archive-date=30 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210830025024/https://hariinidalamsejarah.com/peristiwa/detail/3286-pelancaran-pertubuhan-berita-nasional-malaysia-bernama-.html|url-status=live}} It was once an independent corporate entity during its early history before becoming an autonomous corporation under government control via a ministry. The agency was co-funded by newspaper companies with Government assistance.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19680402-1.2.62|title=BERNAMA AKAN ADIL KAPADA SEMUA PEHAK|publisher=Berita Harian|date=2 April 1968|access-date=12 January 2017|page=5|archive-date=12 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240112012357/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19680402-1.2.62|url-status=live}} Though there have been several attempts to corporatised the agency into a privately held, Bernama remains a government-owned organisation with its obligation to provide comprehensive news and true information to Malaysia and abroad.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19680622-1.2.14.41|title=Bernama a success — Board|publisher=Eastern Sun|date=22 June 1968|access-date=12 January 2017|page=11|archive-date=12 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240112023153/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19680622-1.2.14.41|url-status=live}}

Bernama has more than 700 employees, with approximately 400 of them were journalists, photographers and cameramen. It has its branches in every state in Malaysia. It also has correspondents in Jakarta, Singapore and Bangkok as well as its stringers in Washington, D.C., New York City, Australia and London. Bernama also have bureaus in ASEAN countries, United States, United Kingdom, West Asia and Indian subcontinent. Its namesake free-to-air radio station, Bernama Radio, was launched in September 2007 as Radio24 before rebranded into its present name in 2016,{{cite news|url=http://en.people.cn/90001/90777/6253968.html|title=Malaysia launches first all-news radio station|publisher=People's Daily Online|date=3 September 2007|access-date=12 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304084521/http://en.people.cn/90001/90777/6253968.html|archive-date=4 March 2016}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.star-ecentral.com/news/story.asp?file=%2F2007%2F10%2F21%2Ftvnradio%2F19192424&sec=tvnradio |title=No blast on radio |author=Anthony Thanasayan|publisher=Star e-Central|date=21 October 2007|access-date=21 October 2007 |archive-date=21 October 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071021065635/http://www.star-ecentral.com/news/story.asp?file=%2F2007%2F10%2F21%2Ftvnradio%2F19192424&sec=tvnradio |url-status=live }} while its namesake free-to-air news channel, Bernama TV, launched in February 2008 and rebranded as Bernama News Channel in 2016 with a new logo before reverted to its original name and logo in 2019.{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/4334067/24-7-bernama-tv-goes-on-air-today|title=24/7 Bernama TV goes on air today|publisher=The Malay Mail|date=28 February 2008|access-date=7 January 2020|archive-date=7 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107003226/https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/4334067/24-7-bernama-tv-goes-on-air-today|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/4254239/saluran-berita-tv-tempatan-perlu-dipopularkan|title=Saluran berita TV tempatan perlu dipopularkan|author=Zainuri Misfar|publisher=Berita Harian|date=5 March 2008|access-date=7 January 2020|archive-date=7 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107004015/https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/4254239/saluran-berita-tv-tempatan-perlu-dipopularkan|url-status=live}}

According to Berita Harian, Bernama's legacy as a news organisation is marked by its key role to "combatting negative news that released by foreign news agency".{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/2270162/peranan-bernama-tangkis-berita-negatif|title=Peranan Bernama tangkis berita negatif|publisher=Berita Harian|date=6 December 2007|access-date=26 January 2020|archive-date=26 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240126085047/https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/2270162/peranan-bernama-tangkis-berita-negatif|url-status=live}} While tabling the bill of the news agency's formation which he later approved, Senu Abdul Rahman, former Minister of Information and Broadcasting assured that Bernama will not be "used as a propaganda tool".{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19670308-1.2.129|title=BERNAMA di-jamin tidak akan jadi alat propaganda|publisher=Berita Harian|date=8 March 1967|access-date=12 January 2017|page=14|archive-date=12 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240112031227/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19670308-1.2.129|url-status=live}} Syed Zainal Abidin, former Bernama General Manager said in 1968 that Bernama is not a Government's mouthpiece while pointed out that it "will report news objectively, impartially".{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19680402-1.2.13.1|title=Bernama is not mouthpiece of Govt. says Syed Zainal|publisher=Eastern Sun|date=2 April 1968|access-date=12 January 2017|page=2|archive-date=12 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240112023154/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/easternsun19680402-1.2.13.1|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19680402-1.2.115|title=Bernama's task—by its manager|publisher=The Straits Times|date=2 April 1968|access-date=12 January 2017|page=16|archive-date=12 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240112034505/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19680402-1.2.115|url-status=live}} Former Prime Minister, Mahathir Mohamad believes that Bernama is a vital component to news policy while stressed that it is crucial to strengthening Bernama, so it that could "handle its own information needs".{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830807-1.2.13.1|title=Bernama vital to our news policy, says Dr M|publisher=The Straits Times|date=7 August 1983|access-date=12 January 2017|page=5|archive-date=12 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240112094013/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830807-1.2.13.1|url-status=live}} Former Information Minister, Ahmad Shabery Cheek expressed his praise to Bernama for its reporting style which is said to be acceptable to all parties including the opposition.{{cite news|url=http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2008&dt=0923&pub=Utusan_Malaysia&sec=Dalam_Negeri&pg=dn_30.htm|title=RTM guna digital sepenuhnya tiga tahun lagi|work=Utusan Malaysia|date=23 September 2008|access-date=13 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080923104959/http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2008&dt=0923&pub=Utusan_Malaysia&sec=Dalam_Negeri&pg=dn_30.htm|archive-date=23 September 2008}}

During the occasion of Bernama's 56th anniversary, its former editor-in-chief, Zakaria Abdul Wahab said that Bernama upholds on its goal to "disseminating reliable news and content" while played a vital role to be the "people's voice" and "bridging the gap between the government and the people".{{cite news|url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2023/05/911451/bernama-56-years-and-counting|title=Bernama, 56 years and counting|publisher=New Straits Times|date=20 May 2023|access-date=31 January 2024|archive-date=31 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240131071540/https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2023/05/911451/bernama-56-years-and-counting|url-status=live}} On the same occasion, Communications and Digital Minister, Fahmi Fadzil stated, "Bernama has served to report and record historic moments in our country [... and] will continue to play its role as an official source for news and become a 'resource centre' for what is happening officially in our country".

On 22 August 1992, a bomb hoax, is said to be a fake call, made through a phone call by a man, saying that the bomb will exploded at Bernama's office, causing the news agency's operations interrupted for 90 minutes. All Bernama's staffs returned to work after the bomb disposal unit made an inspection and not found any explosives.{{cite news|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19920823-1.2.11.3.3|title=Berita 'bom' jejas Bernama|publisher=Berita Harian|date=23 August 1992|access-date=31 January 2017|page=2|archive-date=31 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240131044138/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19920823-1.2.11.3.3|url-status=live}}

In 2009, Bernama's headquarters in Jalan Tengku Putra Semerak, Kuala Lumpur was broken into by the thieves in an incident took place on 11 March. The total loss due to the incident is estimated at RM25,000.{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/4432760/pejabat-bernama-dipecah-pencuri|title=Pejabat Bernama dipecah pencuri|publisher=Harian Metro|date=12 March 2009|access-date=26 January 2020|archive-date=26 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240126022927/https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/4432760/pejabat-bernama-dipecah-pencuri|url-status=live}}

In January 2011, a Bernama cameramen was allegedly punched, threatened to be thrown away from the 3rd floor of the Terminal Bersepadu Selatan-Bandar Tasik Selatan and being soaked in a lake by the group of men who identified themselves as the terminal's auxiliary police.{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/5047880/polis-bantuan-tbs-bts-tumbuk-jurugambar|title=Polis bantuan TBS-BTS tumbuk jurugambar|author=Hardi Effendi Yaacob|publisher=Berita Harian|date=11 January 2011|access-date=26 January 2020|archive-date=26 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240126092837/https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/5047880/polis-bantuan-tbs-bts-tumbuk-jurugambar|url-status=live}} Following the incident, the suspects were arrested by the police to assist investigation.{{cite news|url=https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/5066611/sop-polis-bantuan-pukul-jurugambar-disiasat|title=SOP polis bantuan pukul jurugambar disiasat|publisher=Harian Metro|date=12 January 2011|access-date=26 January 2020|archive-date=26 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240126133317/https://www.klik.com.my/item/story/5066611/sop-polis-bantuan-pukul-jurugambar-disiasat|url-status=live}}

On 30 August 2013, Bernama's Terengganu bureau office in Jalan Sultan Sulaiman was robbed after Muslims performed their Friday prayers. In a 2:45 pm incident, two laptops and a BlackBerry phone was missing, believed to be taken away by a big-sized men based on a CCTV recording.{{cite news|url=https://www.mstar.com.my/lokal/semasa/2013/08/30/pejabat-bernama-biro-terengganu-dipecah-masuk-pencuri|title=Pejabat Bernama Biro Terengganu Dipecah Masuk Pencuri|publisher=mStar Online|date=30 August 2013|access-date=26 January 2018|archive-date=26 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240126022927/https://www.mstar.com.my/lokal/semasa/2013/08/30/pejabat-bernama-biro-terengganu-dipecah-masuk-pencuri|url-status=live}}

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