HAWANA Forum Key Platform for Sustainable Journalism in Digital and AI Era, Says Teo
KUALA LUMPUR: The National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) Media Forum serves as a timely platform for media practitioners to exchange ideas and develop practical solutions to ensure the journalism industry remains relevant and resilient amid rapid transformation, says Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching.
Speaking at the forum’s opening ceremony on Wednesday (May 7), Teo said the theme of this year’s forum is both relevant and fundamental in strengthening journalism in today’s fast-changing information environment.
“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.
The forum, attended by more than 200 participants, was organised ahead of the HAWANA 2026 Summit scheduled for June 20 in Penang.
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 emphasised that despite rapid technological progress, journalism must continue to uphold its human values.
“While artificial intelligence offers powerful tools to improve efficiency and innovation, it should support not replace human judgment, integrity and accountability,” she said, stressing the need for balance in the adoption of new technologies.
On media sustainability, Teo highlighted the Media Innovation Fund as a key initiative supporting training, technology adoption, infrastructure, content development, and research and development (R&D).
She said the fund has shown strong progress across multiple phases, with Phase 1 disbursing RM12.38 million to 34 organisations, Phase 2 allocating RM5.16 million to 16 organisations, and Phase 3 approving RM2.6 million for 10 organisations, who received their approval letters on the same day.
For Phase 4, which closed on April 14, 10 applications were received, with seven deemed eligible and currently under evaluation. Phase 5 is now open until May 14.
Teo encouraged all registered local media organisations to apply, saying the fund aims to strengthen skills, enhance competitiveness, and encourage innovation in the evolving media landscape.
She also highlighted the Tabung Kasih@HAWANA initiative, managed by Bernama, which continues to support the welfare of media practitioners nationwide.
As of April 30, a total of 728 media practitioners have benefited from the initiative, with total contributions reaching RM1.94 million. This year alone, RM370,000 has been distributed to 122 media workers.
Teo stressed that journalism is not only a demanding profession but also one that carries safety risks and health challenges.
“As we move forward, it is crucial that we continue to support not only media institutions but also the people behind the stories who keep the public informed every day,” she said.