HAWANA Media Forum A Vital Platform To Build Industry Resilience - Teo
KUALA LUMPUR, May 7 (Bernama) -- The National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) Media Forum is a timely platform for media practitioners to exchange ideas and develop practical solutions to ensure the industry remains relevant and resilient amid rapid transformation.
Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said the forum, themed “Media Integrity Strengthens Credibility,” which was attended by more than 200 participants, is not merely a platform for discussion but also an avenue to shape the future of journalism.
“The theme is not only relevant but indeed fundamental to the resilience, sustainability and continued strength of journalism in today's rapidly evolving information landscape,” she said in her speech at the forum’s opening ceremony here today.
Also present were 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 further stressed that despite technological advancements, it is vital for journalism to retain its human core.
“While AI (artificial intelligence) offers powerful tools to enhance efficiency and innovation, it should support - not replace - human judgment, integrity and accountability. This balance is critical as we navigate the evolving media landscape,” she said.
On media sustainability, Teo said the Media Innovation Fund, introduced to support training, technology adoption, infrastructure, content development, as well as research and development (R&D), has shown encouraging progress.
She said Phase 1 was successfully completed, with 34 organisations receiving RM12.38 million. Phase 2 saw 16 organisations receive RM5.16 million, and in Phase 3, RM2.6 million was approved for 10 organisations, recipients of which started receiving their approval letters today.
“For Phase 4, which closed on April 14, 10 applications were received, with seven confirmed eligible and currently under evaluation. Phase 5 is now open until May 14.
“Local media organisations registered with the Information Department are strongly encouraged to apply to strengthen skills, enhance competitiveness and explore new approaches in the evolving media landscape,” she added.
Held ahead of the HAWANA 2026 Summit on June 20 in Penang, the forum is expected to focus on media sustainability, the evolving realities of the profession, and the adoption of technologies such as AI, all part of ongoing efforts to keep the industry relevant.
Meanwhile, on Tabung Kasih@HAWANA, Teo said the initiative, managed by Bernama, continues to safeguard the welfare of media practitioners.
She said a total of 728 media practitioners nationwide have benefited from the initiative, with cumulative contributions reaching RM1.94 million as of April 30.
“This year alone, contributions have been channelled to 122 media practitioners, amounting to a total of RM370,000,” she said, adding that the role of journalists is not only professionally demanding but also comes with safety risks and health challenges.
“As we move forward, it is crucial that we continue to support not only the sustainability of media institutions but also the people behind the stories who keep the public informed every single day,” she emphasised.
-- BERNAMA
