Press groups urge for ethical use of AI in media industry

Summary

• The National Union of Journalists Malaysia and Gerakan Media Merdeka say the media industry should not use AI to replace journalists

• They call for the technology to be used ethically and warn risks of becoming fully dependent on machines to produce news reports.

• Soon-to-be set up Media Council can play a role by issuing guidelines on AI use, says NUJM.

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In conjunction with World Press Freedom Day, two local press groups today pushed for a more ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the media industry.

In separate statements, the National Union of Journalists Malaysia (NUJM) and Gerakan Media Merdeka (Geramm) said while media companies embrace the new technology, it should not be used to replace journalists.

NUJM general secretary Teh Athira Yusof said the increased use of AI within the industry presents both opportunities and risks, and hopes for better regulation under the soon-to-be set up Malaysian Media Council.

"We hope that, with the media council, more guidelines can be issued, and the NUJM is ready to offer its assistance on the matter.

"There is a need for the ethical use of AI within journalism, as the technology should not replace the talent, skill, and creativity possessed by journalists - qualities that must be recognised and valued.

"This is important as it will also ensure better welfare for the journalists," she said in a statement issued on behalf of the NUJM executive council.

Livelihood, fake news

In a similar tone, Geramm warned about the impact of AI on journalists' livelihood and the risk of fake news being generated by machines.

"Geramm is of the view that AI must be regulated and used ethically, and not to replace human touch that provides context, values and conscience.

"Media is not a machine that merely spews out content - it is a social responsibility," it said.

The use of AI in the news industry has come under scrutiny after a local Chinese-language publication, Sin Chew Daily published an incomplete Jalur Gemilang illustration on its front page two weeks ago.

Several other similar gaffes involving the national flag soon followed.

All the incidents are under police investigation.

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