Minister of Information, Neth Pheaktra, has disclosed substantial progress in the realms of information security and media operation evaluations in the inaugural year of the seventh mandate of the Royal Government which began on August 24, 2023. Significant developments have been observed in the sector as reported during the Ministry’s annual gathering.
In his address, Minister Pheaktra elaborated on the Ministry’s initiatives, particularly emphasizing the safeguarding of information by bolstering accuracy and efficacy. These measures were taken to maintain the citizens’ entitlement to obtain reliable and secure information. Pheaktra elaborated on the Ministry’s role in bolstering the reliability of the media and the security of the information provided to the public.
An illuminating moment in the meeting came when Pheaktra unveiled updated data on Cambodia’s media landscape, showing the existence of more than two thousand different media platforms. These varied sources of media, which range from traditional to modern, comprise nearly a thousand online channels that operate with liberty and autonomy in their reportage.
Further, within the span of a year, the Ministry of Information has allocated around 8,000 journalist identity cards that incorporate a QR code technology for better authenticity and management. Pheaktra remarked that the Ministry had focused on the development of systems and protocols to fortify the integrity of the information space and to deter the spread of false information.
In the framework of the meeting, the Minister outlined the future trajectory for the media sector. He delineated that the Ministry is dedicated to fostering a secure and safe milieu for journalism practices in Cambodia. Efforts will be concentrated on enhancing the professional standards, capabilities, and ethics of journalists. The Minister also stated that there will be ongoing reinforcement of media policies and regulations to ensure maintenance of order, and quality and security control in the realm of information.
The Ministry’s spokesperson, Tep Asnarith, emphasized the significance of information security in elevating the standard of Cambodia’s media sector. Strong information security policies are crucial for countering misinformation and observing high journalistic principles. He noted how modern media serves as a pivotal medium in disseminating information to the public.
Under Minister Neth Pheaktra’s guidance, the Ministry has put forth efforts to draft and enforce a journalism code of ethics that includes four main chapters along with 27 important points. This code prescribes fundamental journalistic values and constructs a framework for media professionals to promote adherence to ethical standards and foster public confidence in the media.
Source: Fresh News
