KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 4): The Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD) is focusing on combating the growing problem of disinformation and misinformation, also known as 'fake news' that has become a global issue.

Its newly appointed director, Philomena Gnanapragasam said Malaysia would undertake a year-long research project through the Angkor Anti-Fake News Initiative that would examine the impact of disinformation on its member countries, including governments, the media, private sector and society.

“The outcome of the research is also to serve as a blueprint for the formulation of policies by the respective governments to enhance the credibility of news and media in the Asia-Pacific region.

"AIBD is partnering with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), together with Taylor's University and Berjaya University College, to find out how they (country members) counter fake news. 

"Most importantly, AIBD wants to ensure that we can draw up a policy and help policy makers come out with a new law or enforcement to combat fake news," she said at a press conference, here, today.

Philomena said a suitable law or enforcement was crucial as fake news was not only a problem for the country, but also a global threat that required in-depth study and to be tackled prudently.

Her appointment as AIBD director effective last month has made her the first female director of the institute. She has three decades of experience in radio and television programming, including over 12 years in radio management and as station manager of local English radio station, Traxxfm, RTM. 

The Angkor Anti-Fake News Initiative was launched during the 16th Asia Media Summit held in June this year in Siem Reap Cambodia.

Given the gravity of the problem, the inter-governmental organisation together with UNESCO will carry out various activities such as conducting seminars or workshops, conferences and other relevant activities with all its members by highlighting the issues. — Bernama