Indonesian minister hails media exchange trip
Media exchange programmes, such as Ikatan Setiakawan Wartawan Malaysia-Indonesia (Iswami), can strengthen the bond between both nations, says Indonesian Communications and Informatics Minister Budi Arie Setiadi.
He said as both countries shared similar cultures, social interactions among the people of Malaysia and Indonesia, especially in journalism, would help forge stronger ties.
“Iswami Malaysia’s visit to Indonesia is part of the cultural exchange and social interaction between Malaysians and Indonesians, especially in journalism.
Budi said: “The press is the fourth pillar of democracy, and with this, the press in Indonesia and Malaysia can help strengthen the democracy of both nations.
“This is a very good initiative, and we should continue the relationship between Malaysian and Indonesian media houses, so that there is a better understanding of our cultures.”
He said this to Malaysian media members, who are part of the Iswami Malaysia delegation to Indonesia to learn about the presidential election last week and experience the country’s National Press Day tomorrow.
He said with rapid global digitalisation, the media, too, must head embrace technology.
He said there were strategic issues surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) that needed to be addressed.
Budi said: “AI will eventually replace many roles in the media world.
“With AI, how can we continue to produce quality journalism?
“There needs to be ethical and AI understanding, because this technology can be of help or cause concern.
“We want to ensure that our digital space is healthy and used productively.”