Ministry aim for global voice in media sector amid ‘transformation’
JOURNALISTS serve as a reflection of society and play an essential role in the country’s development, said Minister of Information Neth Pheaktra during a recent meeting with the Global Peace Journalists Coalition Association.
“Journalist associations are crucial partners for enhancing the media sector, both within the country and the region. Their contribution is vital to socio-economic development, maintaining social order and safeguarding peace in Cambodia,” he said.
According to ministry spokesman Tep Asnarith, the meeting touched on the minister’s key guidance for the journalism profession, including the dissemination of the seventh-mandate government’s policies and other priority plans pursued by the ministry
Specifically, the meeting aimed to communicate the ministry’s vision of transforming into a government public relations institution and Cambodia’s global voice. The goal, he said, is to provide information about Cambodia’s reality to people both within the country and around the world.
With the world advancing in media technology, including various online and social media platforms, he said there is a substantial impact on traditional media like newspapers, magazines, radio and television. This shift has led to a notable decline in readership and listenership, consequently affecting a portion of the revenue traditional media derived from advertising products or services.
“In the digital age, the media sector is undergoing changes, and this trend is not unique to Cambodia; it is happening in other countries in the region and around the world as well,” said Asnarith.
“Despite the challenges, the growth of digital media has also created new opportunities for all information providers. Therefore, we need to collaborate to enhance the quality of the press and compete in the digital information market,” he added.
He continued that producing high-quality, engaging content promptly is a crucial factor for the press to maintain competitiveness in the current market. Otherwise, people will opt for alternative sources of information.
Asnarith underscored the importance of enhancing professional skills in creating and distributing quality content while ensuring the accurate and consistent implementation of journalistic ethics.
He said developing human resources in journalism is a key priority for the information ministry. The ministry appreciates the association’s efforts in coordinating training courses for its members and encourages further initiatives to enhance competencies, skills and professional standards.
By so doing, the media and journalists stand to gain significant benefits. Quality news content, comprehensive information with transparent sources, and well-balanced reporting are crucial aspects. To achieve this, journalists must establish positive relationships with information sources, including spokespersons from ministries, institutions, relevant authorities and various parties.
The spokesman said it is important to strike a balance and not exceed the traditional roles and responsibilities of journalists. This approach not only captures the audience’s attention but also plays a role in curbing the spread of misinformation.
During the meeting, Pheaktra urged media outlets that have not registered with the ministry to do so, mentioning the five-year patent tax exemption for small online media from 2023 to 2028. Additionally, the ministry has announced a 50 per cent reduction in fees for new licence applications.
Registering with the ministry ensures legal recognition for press units, offering legal protection throughout their journalism career. Journalists with a ministry-issued card are also eligible for a 30 per cent healthcare discount at Biomedic Diagnostic Centre, he noted.