KUCHING, July 30 — Amid the surge of fast-spreading and unverified content on social media, the Malaysian Press Institute (MPI) is working to develop credible journalist-influencers.
MPI president Datuk Yong Soo Heong said professional journalists could become trusted influencers without compromising facts or journalistic ethics.
“Many young journalists are now able to produce reports quickly while ensuring they go through fact-checking processes, as they understand the responsibility they carry towards themselves, their employers and news consumers.
“It is time for journalists to strengthen their role and leverage their expertise in explaining issues, rather than merely becoming ‘observers of information’. We fight fire with fire, but we do so responsibly,” he told Bernama.
He said the initiative was not about encouraging journalists to pursue popularity or amass followers, but to ensure their content reached a wider audience through credible and reliable sources.
He said advances in digital technology in recent years had enabled anyone to disseminate information.
“We cannot stop people from obtaining information from influencers…this is where media literacy plays a crucial role in shaping a Malaysian society that is more aware and better informed.
“Media literacy skills must be strengthened so that those who consume news and information can identify credible media outlets and understand narratives that are produced, created or manipulated by non-media individuals who are merely seeking attention or trying to increase their followers,” he said.
Yong said MPI would seek feedback from various mainstream and alternative media organisations, as well as engage with relevant authorities, in an effort to distinguish genuine media practitioners from others.
“This initiative is aimed at helping differentiate between legitimate media practitioners and influencers who merely compile information from authentic media sources.
“Once this initiative is implemented, there will be clearer distinctions and recognition, allowing media professionals to be better appreciated by society,” he said.
He said MPI would also engage with active players in the social media space.
“There are many social media content creators who are responsible and uphold ethical standards. However, many members of the public still struggle to differentiate between responsible reporting and irresponsible reporting,” he said.
He added that MPI would continue to act as a bridge between the government and the media industry in empowering Malaysian journalists who are not only able to compete on digital platforms, but also bring Malaysian stories to the international stage.
