Kuala Lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced an allocation of RM30 million to support media organisations in digital transformation initiatives and the adoption of new technologies for content production. The Prime Minister stated that the allocation aligns with efforts to strengthen the country’s media ecosystem and ensure its sustainability.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar emphasized that this is the largest allocation ever provided by the government for journalists since independence. He highlighted the importance of training and exposure, especially for young journalists, to ensure the media industry keeps pace with advancements in artificial intelligence while maintaining a balance between AI and journalistic ethics. The announcement was made during his speech at the National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) 2025 celebration at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL).
The event was attended by Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa, and other notable figures in the media industry. Approximately 1,000 media practitioners from local and international outlets participated in the prestigious gathering.
Anwar outlined that the initiative will be supported by targeted training and exposure for journalists to adapt to the evolving technological landscape. The fund will be implemented through Project Sigma, with an expansion planned under Project Sigma 2.0 in collaboration with Google and the Tun Abdul Razak Broadcasting and Information Institute (IPPTAR). This expanded project aims to develop innovative approaches to news delivery and content creation.
Project Sigma 2.0 will provide agencies under the Ministry of Communications, such as the Malaysian National News Agency (BERNAMA), the Broadcasting Department (RTM), and others, with insights into information consumption patterns and the needs of Generation Z audiences. The initiative is part of efforts to ensure the media remains relevant and effective in the digital age.
HAWANA 2025, organized by the Ministry of Communications and supported by various media organisations, focused on the theme ‘Journalism in the New Era: Embracing AI, Safeguarding Ethics’. The event emphasized the importance of balancing AI advancements with ethical journalism practices, as stressed by Anwar in his address.
The Prime Minister also reiterated the government’s commitment to its reform agenda, particularly in strengthening financial governance and addressing corruption. He emphasized that reforms should be implemented wisely to ensure national security and effective financial management.