Sim Kui Hian: In the Era of Information Overload, Credible Media Is Most Important

(Kuching, 19th) — Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Sim Kui Hian stated that in an environment where information overload and the spread of misinformation are intensifying, credible media professionals have become indispensable for ensuring the public receives accurate and reliable information.
Sim Kui Hian pointed out that the rise of social media has led to an “information epidemic,” making it increasingly difficult for people to distinguish fact from falsehood amid the vast sea of content.
“Nowadays, anyone can become a social media influencer. Even a passerby, as long as they appear at the right place at the right time, could achieve overnight fame,” he said during the Chinese New Year banquet hosted by the Kuching Division Journalists Association (KDJA) on Wednesday (March 18) in Kuching.

He also acknowledged that while the public’s active sharing of information can have positive aspects, it also raises concerns over accuracy and reliability.
“There’s just too much information. The question is—are these pieces of information correct? Are they true? This is something we must be very adept at judging,” he added.
Sim Kui Hian pointed out that misinformation and conflicting narratives—including mistaken attributions involving global figures and false claims—reflect how quickly chaotic information spreads in today’s digital environment.
“If even those active on social media feel confused, not to mention the general public—this confusion will only increase.” he said.
He further emphasized that although the public has been wary of online scams for years, many still fall victim, showing that information alone is not enough—credibility and trust are vital.
“Scams have existed for years, yet people are still defrauded of hundreds of thousands. This shows that information alone is not enough—credibility and trust are key.”

Sim Kui Hian emphasized that professional journalists shoulder the important responsibility of upholding standards of accuracy and integrity.
“Your profession is more important than ever. You must be reliable sources of information the public can trust.”
“Sarawak journalists must play a role in supporting the state’s development, especially as Sarawak continues to advance nation-building.”
“Sarawak is in a stage of nation-building, and each of us must fulfill our responsibilities. If we don’t do it, no one will help Sarawak.”
He also reminded that much of the information circulating on local social media is increasingly misleading and even outright false, especially as AI-generated deepfake content increases.
“Every Sarawakian must remain vigilant, as much of the content on Malaysia’s social media is at best neutral narration, but headlines are increasingly misleading, and there are stories that are unverified, outright wrong, and even malicious.”