MALAYSIA needs an independent press that will bravely speak up without fear, Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil said.

Fahmi said free and independent media provides checks and balances while also reporting and documenting the news.

“Malaysia is ranked 73rd in the World Press Freedom Index 2023 released by Reporters Without Borders, the highest Malaysia has achieved in many years. But this position should not be taken for granted; there’s a lot of work to be done,” he said at a media forum in Ipoh, today.

Fahmi urged the attendees taking part in the conversations at the event to do what is needed for the future of the industry.

The event is jointly organised by Bernama and the Institute of Broadcasting and Information Tun Abdul Razak in conjunction with National Journalists’ Day.

Fahmi said many industries are now employing artificial intelligence (AI).

“Today some of the challenges that we face include the accelerated growth of the use of AI, and we have seen how a lot of countries are grappling with the question of AI, whether in media or government.

“And yet in many jurisdictions and countries, this question is not being tackled. I hope friends of media who are here today will also help us to understand some of the regulatory challenges that we need to assess, to think through and adopt to ensure that AI ethics are addressed comprehensively by the government,” he said.

Fahmi urged traditional media to innovate and change, such as by adopting new technologies and embracing online platforms.

“It is important for them to have striking content and great storytelling to stand out from the crowd. The greater role of social media in people’s lives has raised another concern, the spread of fake news and disinformation.” – Bernama, May 28, 2023.