Malaysia Calls For Stronger Media Cooperation, Welcomes D-8 Media Excellence Centre

By Sharifah Nur Shahrizad Syed Mohamed Sharer

BAKU (Azerbaijan), Nov 21 (Bernama) -- Malaysia has called for deeper media cooperation among the Developing Eight Organisation for Economic Cooperation (D-8) member states, emphasising the need for stronger cross-border collaboration to combat misinformation, enhance digital resilience and amplify shared development goals.

The Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin said media plays a vital role not only as a source of information but as a bridge that connects communities, sustains shared values and catalyses inclusive development amid global challenges shaped by misinformation and digital disruption.

“At a time when global challenges are compounded by misinformation, polarisation and digital disruption, the D-8 community must leverage the media to promote accuracy, resilience and unity,” she said at opening of the inaugural D-8 Media Forum, here Friday.

Speaking as head of the Malaysian delegation, comprising eight other representatives from agencies under the Communications Ministry, Nur-ul Afida delivered the national statement on Malaysia’s behalf at the forum.

The D-8 Media Forum hosted by Azerbaijan, brings together media professionals, policymakers, scholars and communication experts to encourage mutual understanding, strengthen professional networks, and support constructive media dialogue.

Organised by Azerbaijan’s Media Development Agency (MEDIA), the forum aims to establish a unified information environment to combat disinformation, misinformation, and fragmented news, while fostering solidarity among member states.

Speaking further, Nur-ul Afida said Malaysia recognises both the benefits and risks of artificial intelligence (AI) in the information ecosystem.

She said the Communications Ministry has proposed a more comprehensive Anti-Fake News Act and an AI framework for media usage to ensure accuracy and accountability.

“Malaysia has also introduced significant reforms to strengthen the integrity of the digital ecosystem. This includes the Communications and Multimedia (Amendment) Act 2025, which empowers the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) with stronger regulatory tools to address harmful online content, increase fines and penalties for offences, and compel digital platforms to act more swiftly on misinformation, scams and harmful content circulating online,” she said.

Nur-ul Afida noted that the country is also finalising the Online Safety Act (ONSA), which will include mandatory labelling of AI-generated or manipulated content, such as deepfakes, to protect public trust and enhance digital transparency.

“ONSA is also designed to strengthen public protection against online harms, from cyberbullying to digital fraud, while promoting responsible use of emerging technologies.

“To continue advancing in these areas, collaboration is essential – not only within our national borders but across regions and platforms. This is why multilateral efforts like those we strive for within the D-8 are so critical in this digital era,” she stressed.

On government support for the media, Nur-ul Afida highlighted concrete steps taken to strengthen the profession and media infrastructure in Malaysia, including the Malaysia Media Council, which marked a milestone in media regulation and ethics.

“The MMC serves as a self-regulatory body aimed at enhancing professionalism and ensuring accountability without compromising media freedom. The Council’s framework aligns Malaysia with international best practices and helps restore public trust in journalism,” she said.

On another note, Nur-ul Afida said Malaysia welcomed the proposed establishment of the D-8 Media Excellence Centre, describing it as a “visionary platform” that will promote training, innovation, and cross-border content collaboration among member states.

“Let it nurture collaboration in areas such as fact-checking, ethical reporting, digital journalism and multilingual storytelling – crucial components in building an informed and resilient public sphere,” she added.

She concluded by expressing confidence that the D-8 Media Forum will pave the way for stronger partnerships, noting that the media must continue to champion truth, peace and unity as member states navigate increasing global uncertainty.

-- BERNAMA