27-05-2025
HAWANA 2025 To Strengthen ASEAN Media Ties, Knowledge Sharing
GENERAL
By Shaidathul Suhana Ros
KUALA LUMPUR, May 27 (Bernama) -- The upcoming National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2025, set to welcome media practitioners from across ASEAN, is expected to become a vibrant platform for exchanging expertise and experiences in modern journalism.
President of the Gabungan Kelab Media Malaysia, Mohamad Fauzi Ishak, said events like HAWANA offer valuable opportunities for regional media professionals to learn from one another, especially in embracing technological and digital advancements crucial to contemporary journalism.
'This will not only enhance regional cooperation through information-sharing and discussions on current issues faced by ASEAN countries, particularly in communication and broadcasting, but also foster strategic partnerships that can elevate the quality of news delivery in the region,' he told Bernama.
He said that the convergence of diverse media approaches within ASEAN on platforms like HAWANA could pave the way for mutual learning, especially in mastering digital tools increasingly essential in today's fast-paced media landscape.
On similarities and differences in the region's media landscape, Mohamad Fauzi, who is also Johor Media Club president, said ASEAN member states generally share similar journalistic ethics, though media regulations and legal frameworks differ significantly.
'The media industry in ASEAN reflects the region's cultural diversity, varying political systems, economic development levels, and democratic maturity. Each country adopts its own approach to managing the media sector.
'While ethical journalism principles are largely consistent, the legal provisions governing media and communication vary across the region. These regulatory differences present opportunities for Malaysian media to innovate and lead by example,' he noted.
He cited the Malaysian Media Council Bill 2024 passed by Parliament in February as a progressive step toward more open and inclusive media regulation which allows industry players to actively participate in shaping important decisions, marking a move towards greater transparency and shared governance.
