Interview: Bernama unveils new mobile motorhome studio with ad capabilities

The Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) is elevating its service delivery and content production with a new Auto-Roller motorhome, equipped with mini-studio facilities. The motorhome was unveiled by communications minister Fahmi Fadzil who said that the vehicle could function as both a mobile news unit and also a mobile podcast recording studio, according a Bernama report. 

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He also called the motorhome a gamechanger for the news outlet, adding that the motorhome is one of Bernama's projects under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) to strengthen external coverage operations and news production in a flexible manner. The motorhome will be used as a new medium for broadcasting news content live from locations, for Bernama TV and Bernama Radio programmes, as well as for major events. 

When reached out to by A+M, Bernama shared that the motorhome will be fitted with cameras, audio systems, LED lights, broadcast cameras, talkback headsets, a video audio transmitter, speaker sets and even internet connectivity. 

It added that the agency acquired the motorhome to strengthen and empower Bernama's daily operations mobility, as well as to ensure more effective and enhanced information dissemination. 

Head of Bernama Radio, Azlan Idris told A+M that the motorhome will also be shared with the wires department, enabling its journalists to work on the ground more comfortably.

"We have turned a normal motorhome into what we need as a broadcast player. During the incident involving the gas pipe explosion, our journalists were on the ground day and night to give us the latest updates. In future instances, this can be their 'home' to either have a short rest or to have a comfortable space for delivery," said Azlan. 

He added that the motorhome is different from the usual outside broadcast (OB) van, which usually serves as a mobile production unit fitted with equipments for live events and live crosses. 

"This is a mini studio, where you can also do editing inside as it is well equipped," he explained. 

Meanwhile, Azlan also shared that the agency is undergoing clearance from authorities to fit three LED screens on the exteriors of the motorhome. 

"It will work as out-of-home (OOH) advertising screens, so clients can advertise and promote with us, giving them yet another commercial option. Normally, our clients will buy ad time for radio and TV. So this is set to become our next new revenue stream," he told A+M. 

Besides advertising, the LEDs will also be used to disseminate government news and public service announcements, as Bernama is first and foremost a government agency. Bernama is also aiming to host sponsored programs and series out of the motorhome, and also utilise the vehicle for coverage of events which it is the official media for.

Additionally, the national news agency is aiming to use the Auto-Roller studio for special programs held by government agencies, state governments and also corporate companies, and any other events involving outdoor broadcasting.

"I think that we can claim this— based our market surveys and checks, we are the first broadcast agency to use the Auto-Roller motorhome as a mobile unit," said Azlan. He added that the news agency's internal goal, is to keep the motorhome moving every day.

Photo courtesy of Bernama.

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