As ASEAN Chair, Malaysia organized the “Seminar on Developing Training Module for Combating Fake News in ASEAN”, presided over by YB Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, Minister of Communications of Malaysia, at Concorde Hotel, Kuala Lumpur. The event was spearheaded by the Institut Penyiaran dan Penerangan Tun Abdul Razak (IPPTAR) and brought together journalists, public relations practitioners, academics, and government officials from all 10 ASEAN member states. Participants exchanged views and expertise under a shared goal: to develop frameworks, formats, and components of training programs for countering fake news at the regional level.

Representing Thailand were delegates from the National Broadcasting Services of Thailand (NBT) and NBT Connext, both of which play key roles in disseminating accurate information and building public understanding.

YB Datuk Fahmi Fadzil emphasized that misinformation and fake news pose major societal challenges, particularly during crises, when people are most vulnerable to false information—resulting in psychological harm, financial losses, and erosion of public trust.

He added that in today’s digital era, social media plays a significant role not only in revenue generation but also in information dissemination. Therefore, all individuals should comply with national laws and regulations in combating fake news. Malaysia itself has adopted proactive measures against fake news, and it is believed that many ASEAN countries face similar challenges of misinformation and online scams.

This has led to the creation of a shared experience within ASEAN, with this seminar serving as a platform to develop systems and components for online safety, enhance public protection, and safeguard children and youth from digital threats. The knowledge gained will be adapted and applied in each country moving forward.