AI, Fake News Take Centre Stage at Asia Media Summit in Siem Reap

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Information Minister Neth Pheaktra. KT

 

 

Cambodia has kicked off the 20th Asia Media Summit in Siem Reap, bringing together media professionals, policymakers, and experts from 29 countries to tackle some of the most pressing challenges facing the media industry — including disinformation, digital transformation, and the disruptive rise of artificial intelligence.

 

Held under the theme “Celebrating Two Decades of Excellence and Beyond,” the four-day summit opened Monday at the Sokha Siem Reap Resort & Convention Centre. It marks the second time Cambodia has hosted the prestigious regional gathering.

 

Information Minister Neth Pheaktra told reporters that Cambodia would showcase its efforts to combat fake news, citing over 3,600 cases recorded last year — a 14% rise on the previous year — spanning issues from national security to tourism and politics.

 

“This summit is not only about recognising the past 20 years but preparing for the next 20,” said Kem Gunawadh, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Information. “AI, digital journalism, and cross-border collaboration are at the heart of this conversation.”

 

A packed agenda of plenaries and workshops explores themes such as the role of governments and media in tackling disinformation, building trust, and harnessing technology to improve accessibility.

 

Among the highlights is the AIBD/VIORY Digital Newsroom Masterclass, which trains journalists in innovative storytelling, audience engagement, and newsroom management in the digital age.

 

Also featured is a regional workshop focused on technology-driven accessibility, where participants will examine how emerging tools can make media more resilient and inclusive.

 

Philomena Gnanapragasam, head of the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development, reflected on the summit’s legacy: “We are confronted by a fast-changing landscape that demands resilience, innovation, and integrity.”

 

As global media navigates the twin pressures of AI disruption and a credibility crisis, the summit aims to foster regional unity, information diplomacy, and practical solutions to challenges that increasingly transcend borders.

 

With the digital future arriving faster than many expected, Siem Reap has become this week’s focal point for how Asia’s media responds.

 

-2025-07-22