More Compact, Greater Impact, More Community-Focused

The transition of Berita Harian (BH) to a compact format is expected to offer a more concise and user-friendly reading experience, as the newspaper adapts to an increasingly digital world, according to readers and community leaders.

Dr Azhar Ibrahim, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Malay Studies, National University of Singapore (NUS) and a BH reader for more than four decades, described the transition to the compact format as a natural progression.

He sees it as a form of renewal that reflects evolving reading habits while preserving the newspaper’s core purpose: to inform, challenge, and cultivate critical thinking.

“Every era must find its own rhythm, and this change ensures that BH remains close to the pulse of younger readers without losing its gravitas,” said Dr Azhar.

He also believes that BH continues to serve as an enduring voice of the community — relevant, reflective, and rooted in shared experiences.

Managing Director of RICE Media, Mr Khai Asyraf, who has been reading BH since his school days, said the newspaper helped shape his understanding of society through stories about individuals from diverse backgrounds.

“The new compact format feels like a thoughtful refresh: practical, modern, and reader-friendly for people my age who still appreciate the experience of reading a printed newspaper.

“In a media landscape dominated by English-language platforms, BH remains important — a trusted space that preserves our language, celebrates our stories, and ensures that our community’s voice continues to be heard,” he said.

Mr Khai is also a board member of the Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SMCCI).

The introduction of the compact-format newspaper coincides with the Anugerah Jauhari event organised by Berita Harian, marking this milestone as part of the publication’s continued engagement with the community.

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Disclaimer: This article was originally published in Berita Harian. It has been reproduced here on my personal website as part of my personal archive and portfolio of published work.

Click here to read the original article: https://www.beritaharian.sg/singapura/lebih-padat-lebih-impak-lebih-bermasyarakat