Journalism Ethics Essential To Survival Of Media Credibility
KUALA LUMPUR, June 18 (Bernama) -- Media practitioners in the country have been urged to uphold core journalism ethics to safeguard their credibility, while navigating a wave of unverified information on social media and fast-evolving AI technologies.
Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Journalists’ Club (KLS) president Wan Syamsul Amly said that while mainstream media faces fierce competition from the speed of social media, fact-checking and accountability must never be sacrificed for popularity or sensationalism.
He said the true spirit of journalism lies in adhering to its core principles and reporting facts based on official statements, unlike social media commentary, which is often mixed with assumptions and exaggeration.
He noted that journalists hold official accreditation, such as press cards from the Information Department, emphasising that the public must recognise that mainstream outlets operate with defined professional standards and responsibility.
"As journalists, we learn the ethics of our trade and know the dos and don'ts," he explained, adding that taking an extra five or 10 minutes to cross-check facts with the authorities is vastly superior to chasing a sensational headline with wrong information.
He was speaking as a guest on Bernama Radio's Jendela Fikir programme today for a National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2026 special titled "Survival Kredibiliti Media".
Regarding the main celebration of HAWANA 2026, Wan Syamsul said the event serves as a vital platform for bolstering the reputation and credibility of Malaysian journalism.
Media credibility hinges on public trust, he noted, calling for ongoing efforts to rebuild confidence in mainstream journalism and its commitment to verified facts and official sources.
"Our survival is an effort to reclaim public trust. Society must grasp the role of mainstream media, value the profession of journalism, and grant media practitioners the space to carry out their duties guided by facts and ethics," he said.
On AI usage in newsrooms, Wan Syamsul acknowledged that while the technology is a highly useful tool for speeding up daily tasks, it can never replace human capability.
"AI is a helpful tool, but it has no soul, feelings, or spirit. You can easily tell when a story is written completely by AI because it lacks the 'soul' that comes when a journalist writes from the heart and intellect,” he said.
He also urged the government to review the welfare of media practitioners, particularly freelance journalists or stringers across the country, arguing that more must be done to improve their support system.
"We will be examining the welfare of stringers and freelancers, alongside areas that require more support," he said, adding that a meeting will be held during HAWANA 2026 to finalise proposals that will be presented to the government to better protect journalists.
-- BERNAMA
