Datuk Norliza Kamaruddin, CEO of Bernama, called on members of the Organisation of Asia-Pacific News Agencies (OANA) to make use of new technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) to ensure they maintain a leading position in the continuously evolving media landscape.
She stated that through the Organisation of Asia-Pacific News Agencies, members have the opportunity to set standards of excellence in journalism, enabling their organizations to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world.
“As media professionals, we have a responsibility to uphold the values of freedom of speech, journalistic ethics, and the fair dissemination of news, which are the cornerstones of a free and informed society.”
She said this today (17th) during her speech at the 54th Executive Board Meeting of the Organisation of Asia-Pacific News Agencies, hosted by Bernama.
Also present were OANA Secretary-General and Director of International Relations at the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), Zaman Reza Zakkani, Bernama Editor-in-Chief Ellyna Ali, and representatives from 13 international news agencies.
Norliza noted that the rapid technological advancements, changing audience behaviors, and the pervasive threat of misinformation require media professionals to engage in innovative and collaborative thinking.
She said that the panel discussions at this meeting will focus on exploring key themes, including establishing a digital-first, audience-centric approach, and strategies for combating misinformation and disinformation.
She shared Bernama's initiatives in combating misinformation and disinformation, namely the establishment of an independent fact-checking initiative (MyCheck Malaysia) in March 2020, which focuses on issues affecting social harmony, security, everyday life, and economic well-being based on standards set by the International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN).
“The fact-checking process includes monitoring potential sources of misinformation, collaborative discussions, thorough investigations, and transparent reporting.”
Additionally, Norliza mentioned that as Malaysia assumes the ASEAN chairmanship in 2025, there is a commitment to promoting regional cooperation, economic growth, and cultural understanding. This year, a series of significant regional conferences will be held, and Bernama will provide comprehensive coverage and share news on the Organisation of Asia-Pacific News Agencies channel for the benefit of all organization members.