Kuala Lumpur: Every media organisation in the country is advised to prepare an artificial intelligence (AI) transformation plan in their respective operations, according to Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil. He emphasized the need for careful investment in technology to prevent negative impacts on existing employees.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fahmi expressed concerns about potential job losses and increased workloads for journalists due to AI integration. He noted that journalists often take on additional tasks beyond their primary reporting duties and suggested that AI could help improve operational efficiencies in this context. Fahmi shared these insights at a press conference following the launch of the 'AI in the Newsroom' course, organized by the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama). The course is part of a series of AI-related training programs aimed at media professionals.

Bernama's key figures, including Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin and Huawei Malaysia's Chief Executive Officer Simon Sun, attended the event. Other notable attendees were Bernama's editor-in-chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj and several other high-ranking officials.

Fahmi also highlighted the importance of appointing a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) within media organisations to protect valuable data. He emphasized the critical role of this position, particularly in light of recent amendments to the Personal Data Protection Act, which underscore the value and vulnerability of data produced by media companies.

Addressing the course, Fahmi expressed hope that media organisations would benefit from the expertise of invited professionals. He indicated that the ministry plans to gather feedback from media companies and journalists to explore government support avenues amid the technological shift. Fahmi recalled previous discussions on social media's impact and acknowledged the potential effects of AI on roles such as editors and graphic designers.

Fahmi concluded by expressing optimism that the training course would enable media organisations to harness AI advancements while creating new opportunities for employees. The course is expected to expand to other states, allowing media outlets nationwide to benefit from enhanced knowledge and skills in AI applications.