Kuala lumpur: The National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) Media Forum has been identified as an essential platform for media professionals to share ideas and formulate practical solutions to maintain the industry's relevance and resilience amidst the rapid transformations it faces today. Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching highlighted the significance of the forum themed 'Media Integrity Strengthens Credibility,' attended by over 200 participants, as not just a discussion venue but a foundation for shaping the future of journalism.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Teo emphasized the theme's critical role in ensuring the resilience, sustainability, and ongoing strength of journalism in the swiftly changing information environment. She articulated these thoughts during her speech at the forum's opening ceremony, which also saw the attendance of Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, Bernama chief executive officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, and Editor-in-Chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj.
Teo also underscored the necessity for journalism to maintain its human essence, despite technological advancements. While acknowledging AI's potential to improve efficiency and innovation, she insisted that it should complement rather than replace human judgment, integrity, and accountability. This equilibrium is deemed essential as the media landscape continues to evolve.
Focusing on media sustainability, Teo reported that the Media Innovation Fund has exhibited promising progress. The fund, aimed at supporting training, technology adoption, infrastructure, content development, as well as research and development (R and D), successfully completed Phase 1 with RM12.38 million allocated to 34 organizations. Phase 2 granted RM5.16 million to 16 organizations, and RM2.6 million was approved for 10 organizations in Phase 3, with recipients beginning to receive their approval letters today.
For Phase 4, which concluded on April 14, 10 applications were submitted, with seven confirmed eligible and currently under evaluation. Phase 5 is open for applications until May 14. Local media organizations registered with the Information Department are particularly encouraged to apply to enhance their skills, boost competitiveness, and explore new methodologies within the ever-evolving media landscape.
The forum, a precursor to the HAWANA 2026 Summit scheduled for June 20 in Penang, anticipates concentrating on media sustainability, the changing realities of the profession, and embracing technologies such as AI, all part of the continuous efforts to keep the industry pertinent.
On a related note, Teo mentioned the Tabung Kasih@HAWANA initiative, managed by Bernama, which continues to protect the welfare of media practitioners. The initiative has thus far benefited 728 media professionals nationwide, with cumulative contributions amounting to RM1.94 million as of April 30. This year alone, RM370,000 has been distributed to 122 media practitioners. Teo emphasized the demanding nature of journalism, which involves not only professional challenges but also safety risks and health concerns.
As the industry moves forward, Teo stressed the importance of supporting both the sustainability of media institutions and the journalists who play a crucial role in keeping the public informed every day.