The National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2026 celebration in Butterworth paid tribute to Azlan Idris, the former head of Bernama Radio, by presenting him with a special award in recognition of his enduring influence on Malaysian broadcasting and journalism. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim delivered the posthumous honour to Azlan's widow, Wan Syahrina Wan Abdul Rahman, at a formal ceremony held at the PICCA@Arena Butterworth Convention Centre on June 20. The event drew prominent figures from Malaysia's media landscape and government, underscoring the esteem in which the deceased journalist was held across the industry.

Azlan Idris passed away on January 15 at the age of 57, leaving behind a legacy that spanned multiple decades in Malaysian broadcasting. His career trajectory encompassed significant roles at several major television networks before his appointment at Bernama Radio, having previously worked with TV3, NTV7, and Channel 9 in various capacities. These positions allowed him to accumulate extensive experience across both radio and television platforms, establishing him as a versatile and accomplished media professional.

The award specifically recognised Azlan's instrumental role in developing Bernama Radio from its inception in 2007 onwards. During the nearly two decades following its launch, he was instrumental in shaping the station's editorial direction, news gathering operations, and broadcasting standards. His stewardship of the organisation during this formative period helped establish Bernama Radio as a credible news source within Malaysia's competitive media environment, contributing to the agency's broader mission to deliver accurate and timely information to the public.

Beyond his executive responsibilities at Bernama Radio, Azlan demonstrated substantial commitment to the broader journalism community through his active participation in organising the National Journalists' Day celebrations. He served as chairman of the main celebration committee commencing with the 2022 event held in Melaka, a position he maintained through subsequent years. This organisational role required him to coordinate complex logistics, liaise with industry stakeholders, and ensure that the annual commemoration of Malaysian journalists maintained its significance and relevance to the profession.

The ceremony was attended by key government officials and industry leaders, reflecting the significance attached to Azlan's contributions. Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil were present, alongside Malaysian National News Agency chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai. Also in attendance were Bernama's chief executive officer, Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, who chairs the HAWANA 2026 organising committee, and representatives from Malaysia's major media organisations. This gathering of influential figures underscored the respect Azlan commanded within both government and media circles.

The posthumous recognition carries particular significance within Malaysia's journalism sector, where HAWANA serves as the primary platform for honouring contributions to the profession. The award programme acknowledges individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to journalistic excellence, ethical standards, and the advancement of news media in the country. By selecting Azlan Idris, the awards committee recognised not only his technical competencies but also his role in mentoring younger journalists and in maintaining professional standards within Bernama's operations.

Azlan's passing earlier this year represented a notable loss to Malaysian broadcasting, as his expertise and institutional knowledge were accumulated over decades of professional engagement. Colleagues and peers have noted his dedication to fostering quality journalism practice and his ability to navigate the evolving media landscape as technology and audience preferences shifted. His experience spanning traditional broadcasting platforms positioned him uniquely to guide organisations through periods of significant industry transformation.

The HAWANA awards serve as an important mechanism for recognising journalistic excellence and honouring individuals whose careers have significantly contributed to Malaysia's media development. By presenting the 2026 special award to Azlan Idris posthumously, the awards committee ensured that his contributions would be formally acknowledged and preserved within the collective memory of Malaysia's journalism community. This recognition extends his influence beyond his lifetime, affirming the lasting value of his work and the standards he helped establish.

For the Malaysian journalism sector, Azlan Idris's career and the recognition bestowed upon him represent important markers of professionalism and institutional commitment. His journey through multiple broadcasting organisations and his foundational role at Bernama Radio during a crucial period of its development demonstrate the breadth of experience that characterises accomplished media professionals in the country. The award ceremony in Butterworth thus served not merely as a tribute to one individual but as a broader affirmation of the values and commitments that continue to guide Malaysian journalism.