Journalists should be front line in countering fake news: Bernama rep

KUALA LUMPUR: Journalists have a responsibility to act as the front line in countering fake news, which is increasingly challenging efforts to maintain harmony as well as threatening professional journalism.
Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) Metro Desk chief Syed Iylia Hariz Al-Qadri, in his speech at the National Journalists' Day (Hawana) 2018 celebration said, with technological changes and competition from social media "journalists" whose credibility were doubtful, it was important for journalists in this era to be more united to face challenges in delivering authentic news to the public.
Speaking as a representative of young journalists he said, the responsibility to counter fake news should not be left entirely to the government.
"Nowadays anyone can get the latest information through the internet and pass them on to their friends. The question is, how accurate and reliable are the news found on the internet?" he asked.
The Hawana celebration organised by Bernama was launched by caretaker prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak at the Matrade Exhibition and Convention Hall here today.
Caretaker communications and multimedia minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak as well as leaders of media organisations were also present at the first-ever celebration to honour the contributions of media practitioners.
According to Syed Ilya fake news has become a phenomenon all over the world, which is now a serious problem in Malaysia.
"We accept the fact that fake news is not only bad but it can be defamatory and when lies are spread they can negatively influence readers," he said.
He said currently individuals using the social media claim themselves to be journalists to spread fake news and inaccurate information.
Syed Ilya said the spread of sensational news solely to attract readers' attention without understanding journalism ethics would degrade the quality of journalism.
"If this is not contained, I am worried about the fate of the media industry and the future of young journalists like us," he said. — Bernama