Press Freedom Index: Gov't safeguards media interests in AI era
He said that currently, media practitioners are dealing with various urgent challenges, including employment issues, welfare concerns and the rise of AI, which raises fears over whether it could replace the role of journalists.
'In this regard, the World Press Freedom Index 2025 report released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) presents an opportunity for the government to enhance efforts to defend the interests of media practitioners,' he told reporters after attending the Universiti Malaya Public Health Campaign: Diabetes Is Not a Barrier here today.
Malaysia improved its standing in the World Press Freedom Index 2025 by climbing 19 spots to 88th place, the second highest in ASEAN behind Thailand, which ranks 85th.
Fahmi, who is also the Member of Parliament for Lembah Pantai, said several government efforts, including the drafting of legislation for the Malaysian Media Council, have contributed to the positive outcome in the country's ranking.
'We hope that by National Journalists Day, the council or its founding board can be formed. This would be a positive and significant step forward,' he said.
Fahmi also expressed his readiness to meet with representatives from media groups such as journalist clubs, the National Union of Journalists Malaysia (NUJ) and the Malaysian Press Institute (MPI) to discuss guidelines on AI use in journalism.
'We certainly need guidelines. We need understanding so we can harness AI's potential and not fall victim to false news, inaccurate information, or the misuse of AI, especially in the media industry.
'I am ready to meet and will try to make time this week to at least gather initial input from NUJ,' he said.
Commenting on the 3R (race, religion, royalty) issue raised by RSF in the report, Fahmi stressed the importance of balancing freedom of expression with adherence to existing laws.
'We cannot allow misinformation, including content that touches on 3R issues and disrupts public order, to spread unchecked. Malaysians, including media colleagues, have the right to speak and report, but existing laws still apply,' he said.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Barnama
an hour ago
- Barnama
Fahmi Prays For Rafizi's Son Swift Recovery
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 13 (Bernama) -- Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil has prayed for the speedy recovery of the son of former Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, who was assaulted at a shopping mall this afternoon. In a post on X, Fahmi, who is also PKR Information Chief, expressed sadness, shock and anger over the news. 'As a father with children around the same age as Rafizi Ramli's son, I am also deeply concerned about my family's safety. 'I pray for Ben's speedy recovery, may Allah grant safety to Rafizi and his family, and may the attackers be swiftly apprehended and brought to justice,' he said. Earlier, Selangor police chief Datuk Shazeli Kahar said the assault on the boy is believed to have occurred at 2 pm at the mall's pick-up and drop-off area while he was with his mother and their driver. Meanwhile, Deputy Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister and PKR secretary-general Datuk Dr Fuziah Salleh said in a statement that PKR strongly condemns the assault on the Pandan MP's son, urging authorities to take immediate and firm action to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety and protection of all citizens, especially children. 'I pray for his son's full and speedy recovery, and that his family remains strong in facing this ordeal. Children must never be made victims under any circumstances. Such actions are cruel, inhumane, and must be strongly condemned by all,' said Fuziah. Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang, who is also PKR vice-president, in a Facebook post, urged the police to act swiftly to identify the perpetrators and masterminds, and bring them to justice. 'This serious crime was clearly premeditated and targeted,' he said.
Barnama
an hour ago
- Barnama
HAWANA 2025 Roadshow With Polytechnic Students Kicks Off Tomorrow
GENERAL SHAH ALAM, Aug 13 (Bernama) -- The National Journalists Day (HAWANA) 2025 Roadshow with Polytechnic Students, which kicks off tomorrow, is expected to serve as a platform to raise awareness on cyber safety. Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) chief executive officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin said in addition to introducing students to the journalism industry in Malaysia, the roadshow will also focus on internet safety to ensure that students remain vigilant when going online. She said that, in line with this effort, the roadshow has received cooperation from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to provide explanations and understanding on internet safety and risks. "As students, they are individuals who often use gadgets. They should understand why it is important to stay cautious when using any applications and internet connections. "This is, among other things, to ensure that students do not fall victim to (especially) online scams. This is our opportunity to help spread what the Ministry of Communications has been emphasising about cyber safety," she said. She said this when met after checking on the final preparations for the HAWANA 2025 Roadshow at Politeknik Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah here today. Also present were Bernama's head of Corporate Affairs, Mariati Mohd Arif, and head of the HAWANA 2025 Roadshow with Polytechnic Students programme, Zaria Mohd Nasri. Senior Undersecretary (Management) of the Ministry of Communications, Mazlan Abd Mutalib, is scheduled to launch the roadshow tomorrow. Politeknik Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah, Shah Alam, will be the first stop of the roadshow series, featuring three knowledge-sharing sessions on Mobile Journalism, Fact-Checking, and the Safe Internet Campaign talk.
The Sun
2 hours ago
- The Sun
Malaysia's 13MP focuses on AI and 5G for digital transformation
KUALA LUMPUR: The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) places strong emphasis on technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), to accelerate the nation's digital transformation. Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo stated that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has prioritised the AI Nation Framework as a key initiative. The framework aims to maximise Malaysia's 5G network for digital solutions, including smart city projects using existing data. Gobind noted that the 13MP also introduces the concept of a data commission to strengthen digital trust. He described these measures as crucial steps toward achieving AI nation status in the near future. The minister shared these insights after launching the 5G Enterprise and AI City Grant. The initiative will be showcased at the Smart City Expo Kuala Lumpur 2025 (SCEKL25) from Sept 17–19. The event will highlight Malaysia's smart city progress and encourage collaboration among stakeholders. Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB) and Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) are leading the AI Cities initiative. This effort complements the Smart Cities programme under the Ministry of Housing and Local Government. Gobind expressed confidence that these initiatives will drive actionable innovation nationwide. He stressed the importance of aligning policy with practical implementation for tangible local impact. The 5G Enterprise and AI City Grant was awarded to 14 recipients, including universities, companies, and local authorities. Selected proposals focus on sectors like agriculture, healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, and education. These projects leverage AI and 5G to solve real-world challenges with scalable solutions. Examples include autonomous drone corridors, AI-powered dashboards, and intelligent transport systems. The initiatives also aim to empower SMEs and public institutions, ensuring wider access to innovation.
