Zambry: Journalists must break echo chamber, uphold truth in digital age
KUALA LUMPUR: The digital revolution has fundamentally reshaped the media landscape, offering both immense opportunities and formidable challenges.
Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir said journalism today operates in a fast-paced, AI-assisted environment where news travels instantly and algorithms dictate daily information exposure.
"While digital transformation offers new platforms for news delivery and tools like data analytics and AI to aid reporters, it also brings profound challenges," he said in a speech at the 2024 MPI-Petronas journalism award Malaysian Media Night (Malam Wartawan Malaysia or MWM) 2025.
Among the key concerns, he said, is the "filter bubble" phenomenon, a situation where readers are fed only content that aligns with their existing beliefs, risking polarisation and distortion of the truth.
"Echo chambers damage the media's role as a credible public communication channel.
"Journalists must break these walls with balanced and inclusive reporting to ensure all voices, including minority ones, are heard."
He said the post-truth era has seen a rise in misinformation and conspiracy theories, undermining public trust in the media.
"In such times, journalists must return to core values, to uphold truth and social responsibility.
"Their duty is not to please or vilify those in power, but to report facts and uphold what is right."
Zambry described journalists' noble role as a "guardian of democracy's conscience," echoing the views of prominent thinkers such as Albert Camus, José Martí and Walter Lippmann on press freedom and its necessity in a functioning democracy.
He said press freedom is not a privilege but an essential pillar of a progressive society.
"Journalists are the eyes and ears of the people. Through critical reporting, they help leaders make informed decisions."
Zambry also lauded the efforts of the Malaysian Press Institute (MPI) in upholding journalism ethics through initiatives such as the Malaysian Journalism Awards (HKM), professional training, and the recent launch of its first e-journal on journalism.
"MPI has long been a catalyst for journalistic excellence.
"The new e-journal bridges the gap between media practice and academia, empowering journalists with research and thought leadership."
Zambry said the Higher Education Ministry is committed to ensuring journalism curricula remain relevant, incorporating AI, data analytics, cyber law, and professional ethics.
"We must produce not only skilled reporters, but critical thinkers grounded in ethical values and a philosophical understanding of their roles."
He encouraged stronger collaboration between universities and media organisations through joint research, training, and ethics-focused colloquiums.
Zambry also praised MPI's recent symbolic yet meaningful Media Integrity Support Signature Campaign, calling it a reminder that ethics remain the backbone of journalism.
"Change is inevitable. Growth is optional. While technology will continue to evolve, our personal and professional growth as journalists is a choice—a choice to hold firm to ideals, to continuously learn, and to always prioritise truth."
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