KUCHING – The Sarawak Media Conference 2026, held at the Pullman Hotel on Thursday, 16 July, has been described as a vital platform for empowering media practitioners to manage their roles professionally and deliver accurate information on Sarawak’s ongoing development.
Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, emphasised the state government’s commitment to supporting the growth of the local media industry so that it can stand alongside leading global organisations.
“The Sarawak Government will continue to provide direction and support to media practitioners so that you become among the best media in the world,” he said during his keynote address.
The Premier noted that as Sarawak’s economy continues to grow strongly, prosperity will be shared with various sectors, including the media industry, which he described as a strategic partner in the state’s development. He assured that allocations would be made to strengthen the industry as long as the economy remains on track.
He also highlighted the importance of balancing media freedom with ethical values, particularly in the era of artificial intelligence (AI), where information spreads rapidly.
“Freedom cannot be unlimited. It must be guided by ethics. This is where the role of the media is to make the right judgment in presenting information,” he stressed.
The Premier reminded media practitioners of their role as guardians of information integrity, urging them to uphold ethical journalism to ensure the public receives authentic, accurate, and responsible reporting. He warned against the misuse of technology to spread false or misleading content, underscoring the need for responsible use of AI in journalism.
The conference brought together media professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss challenges and opportunities in the digital era. Topics included the role of ethical journalism in combating misinformation, the integration of AI in newsrooms, and strategies for strengthening Sarawak’s media landscape.
By reinforcing the principles of ethical and competitive journalism, the Sarawak Government aims to ensure that the media continues to play a central role in informing the public and supporting the state’s development agenda.
