KUCHING: Journalists in the state have been called to establish a legal or professional framework to combat disinformation and misinformation, particularly amid the growing influence of technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
In making this call, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg pointed out that journalism is bound for a change in light of growing AI influence and quick access to information.
“In the past, we would read the newspaper every morning. Now, before going to bed, the news has already been published. Then, there is streaming. Sometimes, streaming without your knowledge, and that is where it can create tension if it is not edited.
“Maybe you are quoted out of context. That creates tension because of misinformation. But that is part of the game now.
“The only thing is there must be rules and regulations that regulate. If the information is incorrect and there is some agenda behind it, there must be arbitration. There must be a penalty for misinformation,” he said.
He said this during the 36th edition of Kenyalang Journalism Awards (KJA) held at Riverside Majestic Hotel yesterday evening (Dec 14).
Thus, Abang Johari said there must be a certain legal or professional framework to be determined by journalists in order to preserve the reputation of professional journalists.
“With that, I leave the matter to the relevant parties because a high level of integrity must be maintained,” he said.
Earlier, the Premier also expressed his gratitude to journalists for their contributions in keeping the public informed and helping to foster unity in Sarawak.
“On behalf of my colleagues, I would like to express our appreciation to all the journalists for what you have done. At the same time, you inform the public about what we are doing, and you correct us if there are weaknesses.
“Due to that interaction between your readers and also the journalist fraternity with the government, you are able to maintain the unity that we have and also the unique Sarawakian culture that has been the envy of the rest. This is the basis for us to create what I call a friendly environment,” he said.
He added in a harmonious environment, the state can focus on enhancing the lives of its people and contribute significantly to nation building.
“We are part of a nation called Malaysia. That’s why I said if Sarawak is prosperous, Malaysia is prosperous.
“That is the concept that we have to nurture. Though at times it was misconstrued as if you are too much Sarawakian. But you can’t help it because we are Sarawakian,” said Abang Johari.
