By Linda Khoo
KUALA LUMPUR, July 4 (Bernama) -- The proposed ASEAN-China media network is a commendable and timely initiative to combat the spread of fake news and biased reporting while fostering media literacy across Southeast Asia and China.
Wilson Lee Flores, a columnist for "The Philippine Star," believes the network has the potential to strengthen ties between ASEAN and China, ultimately promoting regional peace, stability, and economic growth.
“The network could be instrumental in addressing the challenges posed by the proliferation of fake news and biased reporting. Through joint fact-checking initiatives, it can ensure the accuracy of shared information.
It can also promote media literacy by sharing best practices and educational resources, thereby equipping the public to discern credible news sources.
“By establishing robust communication channels, the network will facilitate the timely exchange of accurate information, helping to counter misinformation and foster a more reliable and transparent media environment,” he told Bernama.
By improving the flow of accurate information, Flores, who is also a columnist for the Filipino-language tabloid “Abante,” said the network can enhance mutual understanding and reduce misperceptions, thereby fostering a more cooperative regional environment.
“It can also elevate the global competitiveness of ASEAN and Chinese media, enabling them to reach and engage a broader audience worldwide with diverse news stories, analyses, and perspectives.
“Leveraging the significant population and economic power of the two regions, the network can play a crucial role in shaping a more integrated and informed ASEAN-China community, contributing to broader regional and global progress and stability,” he said.
The ASEAN-China Centre (ACC), co-founded by all 10 ASEAN nations and China, partnered with China International Communications Group (CICG) -- a comprehensive and professional foreign language publishing organisation -- launched the ASEAN-China Initiatives on “Jointly Promoting People-to-People Exchanges Through Media Cooperation” during the ASEAN-China Media Cooperation Forum in Dezhou city, Shandong Province recently.
Among other initiatives, it includes establishing an ASEAN-China media cooperation network to promote closer media exchanges and mutual understanding, as well as to facilitate information sharing and practical cooperation between both sides.
When asked about the current state of media cooperation between ASEAN and China, Flores said it is on an “upward trajectory” marked by a growing partnership in recent years.
He said the progress is facilitated by generally strong diplomatic and economic ties between the two regions, alongside rapid advancements in mass media and technology.
“There remains significant potential for deepening this cooperation, especially considering the evolving media environment and the increasing demand for cross-regional communication,” he said.
Flores said strengthening media cooperation with China offers a multitude of benefits for ASEAN countries.
“It can boost economic collaboration by enhancing trade relations and promoting tourism. Moreover, it fosters cultural exchange and mutual understanding, crucial for regional peace and harmony.
Effective media cooperation can bridge gaps in perception, foster people-to-people connections, and contribute to regional stability and prosperity by creating a more informed and cohesive community.”
Meanwhile, Supachai Wuthichuwong, a journalist with Manager Media Group, Thailand, said media cooperation between ASEAN and China will lead to comprehensive information and a better understanding of the 11 countries.
“Comprehensive information can reduce emotional provocation and may help deescalate conflicts; exchanges between each other will build understanding among the people, create media literacy, and help counter misinformation,” he said.
He said balanced reporting becomes even more critical as global tensions rise and conflicts erupt worldwide.
Therefore, he said media outlets actively seeking information from diverse sources are crucial to gain a comprehensive understanding of complex situations and enable precise decision-making.
At present, Supachai said media professionals face various challenges due to the rise of new technologies, social media platforms, and sophisticated information operations from various actors.
These challenges are especially significant when reporting on a growing power like China. However, media cooperation can offer solutions, he said.
-- BERNAMA
