Identifake Exhibition Empowers Sabah Youths Against Misinformation

KOTA KINABALU, April 19 (Bernama) -- The Identifake Exhibition at the Tanjung Aru Library, here that kicked off yesterday until May will empower Sabah youths to enhance information literacy and combat misinformation and disinformation.

Sabah Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (KSTI) permanent secretary Datuk Mohd Hanafiah Mohd Kassim said the interactive exhibition programme would also educate visitors and participants on how to detect fake news.

“In a world where information spreads like wildfire, especially on social media, it's becoming increasingly challenging to separate fact from fiction.

“KSTI acknowledges the challenges and risks posed by technology, which makes it difficult to control the spread of misinformation.

“However, amidst these challenges lies an opportunity for us to leverage technology in the fight against misinformation,” he said during his speech at the launch of the programme today.

The exhibition is a collaborative effort between Arus Academy, Biji-Biji Initiative, The Fourth, Malaysia Informative Literacy Education and the United States (U.S) Embassy in Malaysia.

Meanwhile, US Embassy chargé d'affaires Manu Bhalla, in his speech, hoped the exhibition would serve as a platform for dialogue, education, and action against false information.

“Through interactive exhibits, workshops and discussions, we hope people, young and old, will learn how to critically evaluate information, recognise bias and distinguish fact from fiction,” he said.

The Identifake Exhibition has already made an impact in five other locations - Penang, Kelantan, Kedah, Kuala Lumpur and Sarawak - engaging over 3,000 participants and visitors.

It provides various engaging activities and workshops, enabling participants to gain valuable insights into techniques for identifying and combating misinformation, as well as effective tools and resources for promoting fact-checking and information literacy in the digital age.

In addition to the exhibition, Tanjung Aru Library also hosts the brand-new American Green Corner, focusing on environmental and climate issues.

-- BERNAMA