AI Empowers, Not Threatens, Journalism – Lee Kim Shin Urges Reporters to Learn Proactively

(Miri, 4th) – "Artificial intelligence is not a threat to journalists, but rather an important tool for improving news quality and efficiency."

Sarawak Minister of Transport, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, pointed this out during his speech at the closing ceremony of the "Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Newsroom" workshop this morning, adding that media professionals should actively embrace technology and pursue lifelong learning to meet the transformations and challenges of the digital era.

He said that although he does not come from a media background, he highly affirms the key roles played by journalists in democracy, national development, and social cohesion.

"Reporters are no longer just writers and photographers—they are content creators, data analysts, and strategic planners. Now, they must also master AI technology to keep up with the times."

He mentioned that this workshop was organized by the Northern Sarawak Journalists Association (NSJA) and co-organized by Curtin University Malaysia, marking an important milestone for the local news industry as it strides towards a digital future. He suggested that Curtin University could offer short-term courses on "AI and Journalism," inviting media professionals throughout Sarawak to participate and systematically learn about AI applications in the field of journalism.

"I am pleased to see NSJA become one of the first media organizations in the region to promote AI-focused training. This not only answers the global trend of media transformation but also marks a local starting point for the integration of professionalism and technology."

He pointed out that AI has long been widely used in the transport sector, such as unmanned rapid transit systems, drone management, and aviation navigation. The media industry should also make good use of AI tools.

"AI can assist journalists with voice transcription, multilingual translation, information gathering, and more, greatly improving work efficiency. But we must also face its potential risks, including the spread of false information, ethical issues, and job insecurity."

He said with a smile that nowadays some people even use AI to predict 4D numbers: "But AI is smart, it only gives suggestions, there are no guaranteed winnings."

He reminded everyone that AI may develop disruptive technologies in the future, such as medical applications or even "consciousness storage." If media professionals do not understand its principles and limitations, it will be difficult for them to judge the authenticity of information and could even mislead the public.

"AI cannot replace journalists' judgment, integrity, and sense of social responsibility, but those who do not know how to use AI in journalism may be eliminated by the times in the future."

Lee Kim Shin urged the Northern Sarawak Journalists Association to establish collaborations with Curtin University, government agencies, and tech enterprises to launch more practical training courses. He also encouraged media professionals to cultivate a culture of lifelong learning and continually enhance their professional abilities.

"Although this training had only 18 participants, what comforts me is that several experienced media professionals proactively came to learn, demonstrating professionalism and a continuous commitment to growth."

At the closing ceremony, he also thanked NSJA President Cai Chuanjin, organizing committee chair Jennifer, Curtin University Acting Vice Chancellor Professor Lee Jianquan, Professor Roy Rillera Marzo, as well as the lecturers and all participants for their contributions, which made the workshop a success.