AKP Phnom Penh, August 27, 2026 --

ASEAN Member States are discussing measures to minimise the negative impacts of digital transformation on traditional media, with emphasis on media sustainability, digital adaptation, misinformation and disinformation, professional ethics and public trust.

The issue was highlighted at the ASEAN Workshop on Minimising Negative Impacts of Digital Transformation on Traditional Media, being held from Aug. 25 to 28 at Sunway Hotel in Phnom Penh.

The workshop aims to strengthen dialogue and mutual learning among policymakers, government officials, journalists and media professionals, while identifying practical areas for future ASEAN cooperation in knowledge sharing, capacity building, and enhancing the resilience and sustainability of traditional media.

In his welcome remarks, H.E. Dr. Sles Alfin, Under Secretary of State at the Ministry of Information, said traditional newspapers, television and radio are increasingly operating in an environment shaped by digital platforms, social media, mobile technologies and artificial intelligence (AI).

He noted that traditional media are facing growing economic and financial pressures as advertising revenues shift towards digital platforms, while competition for audiences has intensified and become increasingly fragmented.

At the same time, the rapid development of AI has created new challenges for the media sector, including AI-generated content, deepfakes, copyright issues, professional ethics and public trust.

H.E. Has Sam Ath, Under Secretary of State at the Ministry of Information and Chairman of SCI, said the workshop provides an important platform for ASEAN Member States to exchange experiences, share best practices and explore innovative approaches to integrating traditional media with digital technologies.

He proposed that participants identify common challenges facing traditional media across ASEAN, particularly those related to media sustainability, regulation and professional ethics.

He also encouraged the exchange of best practices on digital adaptation, fair compensation models and fact-checking mechanisms to help traditional media respond effectively to the rapidly changing media landscape.

The workshop is expected to contribute to stronger regional cooperation and provide practical recommendations to support the sustainability, credibility and resilience of traditional media in the digital era.

By Somany