Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim described the media as both a guardian of integrity and a vital bridge between cultures, saying it is indispensable for building informed, cohesive communities.
He said the press is a crucial partner in realising the Malaysia MADANI vision through the promotion of good governance, transparency, knowledge sharing and social harmony.
“For Malaysia, the media remains a vital pillar of public life. In the age of big data, generative artificial intelligence and borderless communication, the world needs responsible journalism and a deeper commitment to truth, fairness and dignity,” he said.
Anwar made the remarks in a recorded message for the 58th Annual Conference of the World Chinese Language Press Institute held at the Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery today.
The conference was officiated by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and attended by Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Steven Sim and Bernama chairman Wong Chun Wai.
The two-day conference is hosted by Penang-based newspaper Kwong Wah Yit Poh in conjunction with its 115th anniversary.
Anwar said the gathering symbolised the resilience and cultural contribution of Chinese-language media in Malaysia, particularly with the historic Kwong Wah Yit Poh as host.
He noted that since its founding in 1968, the World Chinese Language Press Institute has played a key role in upholding press freedom, strengthening professional standards and fostering collaboration among Chinese-language media worldwide.
On technological change, Anwar said artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the media landscape, reshaping how information is produced and shared.
While AI offers opportunities to boost efficiency and reduce costs, he said it also demands deeper reflection on ethics, responsibility and the evolving role of Chinese-language media.
Anwar also highlighted Kwong Wah Yit Poh as one of the world’s oldest surviving Chinese newspapers, having endured colonial rule, conflict, self-governance and the digital revolution.
He said Malaysia is ready to strengthen cooperation with Chinese-language media globally to enhance regional information networks, deepen cultural understanding and contribute to a more enlightened global community.
