Latest news with #SMeC
Borneo Post
03-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Media firms should cover journalists' AI tool costs, says S'wak deputy minister
Abdullah delivers his closing remarks at the event. – Photo by Kong Jun Liung KUCHING (July 3): Media companies may need to take responsibility for the cost of artificial intelligence (AI) tools and digital applications used by journalists in their daily work, said Datuk Abdullah Saidol. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Sarawak Media Conference (SMeC) 2025 here today, the Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department acknowledged the growing financial burden media professionals face in keeping up with evolving digital requirements. 'Some reporters and journalists told me, 'I have to download this app – it costs me RM90 a month. Then I need another that costs RM300 per annum. I have to subscribe to this and that, and the company isn't covering it',' he said. 'Yes, these tools do help in their work, but employers must also understand that these extra expenses are necessary to enable digital assistance, whether AI or any otherwise.' He stressed that as technology advances rapidly, media companies must take into account these 'hidden costs' when discussing digital transformation. 'This is another consideration we must look at. Probably in future seminars, we can get researchers who have explored the actual costs involved, for both individuals and the government, in embracing digital advancements,' he said. Abdullah, who was SMeC 2025 organising chairman, noted that while AI is now part of everyday discourse, it must be approached with balance. 'We don't want to be left out, but neither should we be too quick in adopting new technologies. I used the term 'wholesale adoption' earlier, as one of the speakers mentioned, sometimes we shouldn't rush in adopting the latest advancements, especially when the fundamentals haven't been fully addressed.' He emphasised that the narrative of digital policy varies by country and government appetite. 'For example, the US is driven by commercial interests, the EU by standards, and China by security. In Sarawak, we must shape our own approach, one that aligns with our specific needs.' Abdullah also underscored the need for inclusive infrastructure, noting that many rural areas in Sarawak still lack basic connectivity. 'You don't have to talk about AI to me, my area doesn't even have internet. The tower is there, but it's not functioning,' he said, citing complaints from rural constituents. He acknowledged that while the Sarawak government has invested billions in digital infrastructure, more efforts are needed to close the digital divide. He also advocated for early education in AI, including governance and ethics, to prepare the next generation for a digital future. 'A teacher told me yesterday to pass the message to the Premier, that maybe we should start teaching children as early as primary school about the good and bad that AI can bring,' he shared. Abdullah also reminded that while AI may evolve to simulate intelligence and emotion, it cannot replicate the human qualities that matter most, such as empathy, feeling, and cultural understanding. 'In Malaysia, and especially in Sarawak, with our diversity in race, religion, and language, this is something AI will never understand,' he said. The SMeC 2025, which brought together journalists, academics, policymakers, and tech experts, focused on the intersection of innovation, governance, and the media industry's digital future. Abdullah Saidol AI tools cost journalists media company
Borneo Post
03-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
SMeC 2025: AI can assist, but storytelling must stay human, says Broadcasting Malaysia D-G
Suhaimi speaks to reporters during the SMeC 2025. – Photo by Jude Toyat KUCHING (July 3): Artificial intelligence (AI) may assist in journalism, but the role of crafting compelling and meaningful stories must remain with human journalists, said Broadcasting Malaysia Director-General, Datuk Suhaimi Sulaiman. He said that while AI can support media practitioners by generating ideas and background data, it cannot replace the human touch required in storytelling. 'The most important thing, from a reporter's point of view, is that AI helps us to develop a story — it gives ideas. But ultimately, we are the real storytellers,' he told reporters when met during the Sarawak Media Conference (SMeC) 2025 here today. He urged journalists to adopt a mindset of continuous learning to remain adaptable in the evolving media environment. 'We must always seek to increase our knowledge. Every journalist needs to have an attitude that embraces lifelong learning, because there are many branches of knowledge involved when we talk about AI,' he said. Suhaimi highlighted that understanding how AI works is crucial, but so is recognising its limitations, particularly when it comes to regional and local content. 'For example, here in Sarawak, there are many things about our state that may not exist in the current data sets. The challenge is for us to teach AI about the local data that can be shared — not everything, but enough to make search results more meaningful,' he explained. On the question of cost involved in transitioning to AI, Suhaimi encouraged the media industry to view it as a long-term investment. 'Don't look at it from the perspective of cost. See it as an investment. When you invest in something, surely there will be returns, just like when we invest in education,' he said. He warned that ignoring AI would leave media professionals behind. 'This is knowledge that we cannot avoid. If we don't embrace it or use it, we will lose out. But we also need to be wise — we must be smart in how we use this knowledge in the best possible way,' he added. Addressing concerns over AI replacing media roles such as news anchors, Suhaimi clarified that Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) uses AI only as a temporary solution while seeking suitable human talent. 'For RTM, it's a stopgap measure until we get the right people to come in. The younger generation — some of them — prefer part-time work. They don't want to work on Sundays or Mondays. Because of that, we have to resort to AI,' he said. However, he maintained that human anchors are still essential for serious news content. 'We let AI present community news, human interest stories, and entertainment. But the more serious ones will always be handled by humans,' he said. Suhaimi also responded to concerns that AI may reduce opportunities for fresh graduates, saying employability now depends on adaptability and value creation. 'I don't think we'll hire fewer fresh grads. What's important is how resourceful and valuable you are. Whatever you study in university, you must balance it with other knowledge to keep up with the rapid changes in technology,' he said. 'You may have a journalism degree, so what? But if you can also do this, this, and this, if you're an expert in something, you become a lot more marketable,' he added. Suhaimi concluded by reiterating that although AI may take over repetitive tasks, the essence of journalism must remain human-led. 'Moving forward with AI, there will be certain jobs that AI will take over. But the position is still there. You are expected to come up with new skills to meet the new challenges. 'Your value should be more than just the repetition work that AI can do,' he said. AI artificial intelligence journalism Suhaimi Sulaiman
The Sun
02-07-2025
- Politics
- The Sun
Fadillah urges Sarawak media to focus on key development stories
KUCHING: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof has encouraged media practitioners in Sarawak to consistently spotlight critical development narratives as the state progresses towards its Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 objectives. Speaking at a dinner event linked to the Sarawak Media Conference (SMeC) 2025 and state-level National Journalists Day (HAWANA) celebration, he emphasised the need for news coverage to align with Sarawak's strategic direction. 'News that can be highlighted includes advancements in green and hydrogen technology, as well as stories of struggle and resilience amid the rising cost of living. Other crucial narratives include the impact of policies and public services, right here in the heart of Borneo, that truly matter,' he said. Fadillah stressed that media platforms must uphold truth, dignity, and hope in their reporting. During the event, the Deputy Prime Minister presented the Sarawak Premier's Special Appreciation Award 2025 to 10 media professionals. The awards recognised contributions across categories such as editor, journalist, newsreader, radio announcer, and photographer. Recipients included Sarawak Bernama bureau chief Hamdan Ismail, Sarawak Tribune editor-in-chief Aden Nagrace, and Cheng Lian Hock from Dayak Daily.
Borneo Post
02-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Madani Government reaffirms commitment to ethical, resilient media ecosystem, says DPM Fadillah
Fadillah (centre) receives a souvenir from Abdullah while Lee (right) looks on. – Photo by Chimon Upon KUCHING (July 2): The Madani Government remains steadfast in its commitment to cultivating a robust, ethical, and resilient media ecosystem in Malaysia, said Deputy Prime Minister Dato Sri Fadillah Yusof. He said this commitment reached a milestone with the passing of the Malaysian Media Council Bill 2024 – a significant step toward industry self-regulation, symbolising trust, maturity, and empowerment. 'Just last month, during National Journalists' Day (Hawana) 2025, our Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil announced ground breaking protections for part-time and freelance journalists – stringers – through Socso and the i-Saraan EPF scheme, benefitting thousands, while also extending travel support through 50 per cent AirAsia fare discounts across Asean destinations. 'These are not just policies. These are affirmations of respect for your labour, your integrity, and your service to society,' Fadillah said during the Sarawak Media Conference (SMeC) 2025 and Hawana dinner at a hotel here this evening. He emphasised the pivotal role of media in national development. 'The media is not a bystander in national development. It is a vital strategic partner. Journalists are not just storytellers. You are the eyes that witness truth, the ears that listen to the nation's heartbeat, and the pens that shape understanding. You give voice to the voiceless. 'You hold power to account. You keep democracy alive. In this age of misinformation, your role becomes more crucial than ever. When truth is drowned in a flood of falsehoods, you are the beacons of clarity, the guardians of integrity,' he said. Fadillah also spoke about the disruptive impact of artificial intelligence on all aspects of life, including journalism. 'AI is changing the world at lightning speed. It touches everything — our food, our jobs, our homes, even our privacy and security. And yes, it is transforming journalism. But the question is not whether AI will shape the future. It will. The real question is: Will we shape AI – or will AI shape us? 'And that is why this conversation is so important. I do not pretend to have all the answers. But what I do have is faith – in the power of dialogue, of collective wisdom, and of a media community that is not afraid to evolve,' he said. As Sarawak pursues its ambition to become a high-income, green, and tech-driven economy under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, he called on the media to continue amplifying stories that matter. 'Let your platforms be spaces where the truth is heard, where dignity is preserved, and where hope is never extinguished,' he said. As a proud Sarawakian, Fadillah expressed his pride in Sarawak's leadership through the SMeC platform, which brings together policymakers and media practitioners for open dialogue and mutual learning. He also paid tribute to two Sarawakians — The Borneo Post and Utusan Borneo General Manager Madam Phyllis Wong, and Kuching Division Journalists Association President Ronnie Teo — who are among the founding members of the national Media Consultative Council. 'Their presence is a testament to the strength and leadership this state contributes to the national media landscape,' he said. Also present were Sarawak Deputy Transport Minister, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin and Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas)) Datuk Abdullah Saidol, who chaired the event's organising committee. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of media awards. The editors category were won by Bernama Sarawak Bureau Chief Hamdan Ismail, Sarawak Tribune Chief Editor Aden Nagrace and Dayak Daily Director Cheng Lian Hiok. The reporters category were won by Sarawak Tribune's Caroline Anne Ranyed Jackson, RTM's Dayang Fatimah Awang Lai and RTM's Petrus Abai. The news casters category was won by RTM Sarawak's Khalid Suut while the Radio (DJ) category were won by Red FM's Teo Oh Meng and Cats FM's Sharbarudin Abu Bakar. The photographers category were won by Sarawak Public Communications Unit's Mohammad Rais Sanusi and TV3 Sarawak's Basri Mohamad.
Borneo Post
02-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Singapore AI leader praises Sarawak's visionary digital push
Soh expresses admiration for Sarawak's digital and technological initiatives – particularly the development of its own AI model known as DeepSAR, designed to suit the state's unique digital landscape and resources. – Photo by Jude Toyat KUCHING (July 2): Sarawak and Singapore can strengthen bilateral ties through collaborative youth initiatives and a shared vision in artificial intelligence (AI) and innovation, said AI Visionary Society Singapore Founder and CEO, Soh Wan Wei. Speaking to reporters after delivering her talk titled 'Generative AI in Media: Balancing Innovation & Responsibility' at the Sarawak Media Conference (SMeC) 2025 here today, Soh highlighted ongoing efforts to build partnerships between the two regions. 'I also run a ground-up initiative called AIGents of Change in Singapore, and we have been working very closely with the Singapore Global Network. 'The sole mission of the Singapore Global Network is to strengthen friendships between Singapore and forward-looking, visionary regions like Sarawak,' she told The Borneo Post . Soh, who has a background in corporate communications and over eight years of background as a global keynote speaker in AI, media, and blockchain, also expressed admiration for Sarawak's digital and technological initiatives – particularly the development of its own AI model known as DeepSAR (DeepSarawak), designed to suit the state's unique digital landscape and resources. 'I think DeepSAR is very mind-blowing to me. 'How would a leader even think of DeepSAR? That process of thinking is so inspiring. Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg must have such insight and conviction that Sarawakians can do it – that we can succeed on the global stage,' she said. Soh said she hopes to tap into her current collaborations with the Singapore Global Network to build closer ties with Sarawak's youth and community. 'I wish to leverage my working relationship with the Singapore Global Network to strengthen engagement with young people in Sarawak, as well as the broader community. 'I believe Sarawak is a visionary society, and I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to visit,' she added. She also shared a personal connection to Sarawak from her school days. 'When we were 11 or 12 years old, Sarawak and Sabah were always mentioned in our social studies books – about the formation of Malaysia, and how Sarawak, Singapore, and Sabah came together to form the country,' she recalled. Reflecting on the potential for deeper cross-border collaboration, Soh expressed optimism that partnerships can be explored further. 'The Premier has clearly outlined Sarawak's vision, and I hope the relationship with Singapore will support and strengthen that direction,' she said. AI artificial intelligence Singapore Soh Wan Wei
