Sarawak Premier calls for ethical journalism amidst digital media transformation

KUCHING (Oct 24): Journalists must uphold ethics and integrity as rapid technological advancements reshape the media landscape, said Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

In highlighting the transformation of media consumption among the communities, he noted that there is a shift from traditional printed newspapers to real-time digital news.

He pointed out that the ability to live-stream online has bridged the gap between public figures and the people, thereby reducing the potential for misinformation when handled ethically.

“Now, we face the media in various forms. Previously, we read newspapers every morning but now we read the news every minute, every second.

“Back then there was no such thing as streaming. Now with direct (live) streaming, people cannot twist (facts). Those who know how to twist it, this goes back to the question of integrity, it goes back to the issue of ethics.

“Journalism must have certain ethics, more so when you interface with the communities just in a matter of seconds,” he said.

He was speaking at the closing ceremony of Training for Sarawak Journalists programme organised by Malaysian Press Institute (MPI) at a hotel here this evening.

Abang Johari emphasised that journalists would be more respected when they maintain a high level of integrity.

He also addressed the impact of technology on journalism, noting the growing influence of social media and emerging communication platforms like podcasts.

He cautioned that while these platforms can disseminate information rapidly, they must be utilised responsibly.

Discussing the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and its societal implications, he remarked that technologies, including Generative AI, could transform how people think and communicate, presenting both opportunities and risks.

He encouraged journalists and media practitioners to stay abreast of these rapid technological changes while remaining committed to ethical practices.

“At the end of the day, it is your personal integrity that is being audited by the community,” he said.

Meanwhile, MPI President Datuk Yong Soo Heong expressed gratitude to Abang Johari for his ongoing support to the institute in strengthening the knowledge and skills of Sarawak’s media practitioners.

“We are confident and believe that the continuous support of the Premier in training and efficiency will position Sarawak as a hub of excellence for journalists, skilled in technology while maintaining factual, transparent, and accurate reporting to the public,” he said.

A total of 150 Sarawak media practitioners participated in three high-impact training programmes organised by MPI.

These three programmes were the Photojournalism Course, Workshop on Journalism in a New Media World, and the Data Journalism 2.0 Course: Sentiment Analysis.

Also present at the closing ceremony were Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and Ukas) Datuk Abdullah Saidol, and MPI chief executive officer Ainol Amriz Ismail.