Kuala Lumpur: The theme 'Journalism in the New Era: Embracing AI, Safeguarding Ethics' has been selected for the National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2025 celebration, scheduled to take place from June 13 to 15 at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTC KL).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, who announced the theme, emphasized the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on information gathering, processing, and dissemination, while stressing the importance of maintaining journalistic ethics. He stated that this year's HAWANA celebration aims to align technology with journalism's core values.
Fahmi made these remarks at the HAWANA 2025-Bernama Strategic Partners' Appreciation Ceremony and the Official Launch of BERNAMA Motorhome at Wisma Bernama. He also unveiled the HAWANA 2025 logo at the event. Other notable attendees included Communications Ministry secretary-general Datuk Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa, Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) CEO Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, and editor-in-chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj, who is also the HAWANA 2025 project director.
Fahmi highlighted the challenges posed by generative AI (Gen AI), particularly when such tools create content resembling legitimate news. He noted that the accessibility of technology has made producing AI-generated videos easier and more affordable, even with a smartphone, raising concerns about the equivalence of AI-generated content to verified journalism.
The minister urged journalists to help the public assess the accuracy and reliability of AI-generated information, especially in a media environment where traditional outlets face economic pressures. He reaffirmed the significance of Malaysia's Code of Ethics for Journalists, introduced in February 2024, as an ongoing guide for media practitioners.
Fahmi expressed hope that HAWANA 2025 will be a significant forum for journalists globally to discuss media industry trends. He emphasized Malaysia's ASEAN Chairmanship as an opportunity to invite media representatives from all ASEAN countries to foster regional integration and sustainability.
The HAWANA 2025 logo, revealed today, features national symbols such as the Petronas Twin Towers and Merdeka 118, alongside a pen illustration representing intellectual strength and the media's role in shaping informed societies.
Describing HAWANA as a platform for reflection and collaboration, Fahmi outlined various events scheduled for this year's celebration, including the HAWANA-DBP Pantun Festival, carnivals and exhibitions, the HAWANA Media Forum, and the UNESCO-Young Creator Fellowship.
HAWANA 2025 has garnered support from 79 strategic partners, an increase from 44 last year, indicating growing confidence in Malaysia's largest journalism event. The main ceremony will be held on June 14, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as the guest of honour. Over 1,000 media practitioners, local journalists' associations, and ASEAN media representatives are expected to participate.
National Journalists' Day was officially designated on May 29 to coincide with the first publication of Utusan Melayu daily in 1939, celebrating journalists' contributions to national development and public discourse.