SMeC 2026: Media freedom, ethics and wisdom
- BT
- Jul 16
- 2 min read
KUCHING, 16 July 2026: The 3rd edition of the Sarawak Media Conference (SMeC) officially took place today at Pullman Kuching under the theme ‘Media, Trust & Governance in a Rapidly Evolving Digital World’, uniting over 800 media practitioners for a day centered on navigating issues brought on by the digital landscape, including public trust, good governance practices, ethical journalism as well as opportunities and challenges brought on by digital technology, including AI.
SMeC 2026 was launched earlier today by the Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr.) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, who called for a balance between freedom and ethics in his keynote address. “SMeC 2026’s theme aptly reflects the challenges that are faced by the media industry today. You, as media practitioners, must exercise freedom with ethics and wisdom when carrying out the responsibilities entrusted to you.”
The Premier also talked about the challenges that come with advancement, citing the risk of misinformation and deepfakes through AI, “AI is like a knife you use in the kitchen. You need it to cut meat and other foods but when misused, it can kill. Therefore, the usage of AI must come together with ethics, because while the technology is meant for good, it can also be abused and cause more harm.”
In his speech, the Premier also announced that the state is ready to collaborate with the Malaysian Media Council (MMC) in the hosting of more national and international media events, welcoming a closer cooperation as well as serving as venues for future conferences. This was in response to an earlier suggestion made by MMC’s Deputy Chairman, Premesh Chandran.
“As a lawmaker, when I look at the digital landscape today, I see that your jobs have transformed entirely. You are no longer just reporting the news or managing corporate reputations. You are emergency first responders in a relentless information war. Today, our shared mission is clear; we must uphold the standard of truth in an era where algorithmic speed is routinely prioritized over substance,” added Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information & UKAS), Datuk Abdullah Saidol in his welcoming address.
