Media and think tank representatives from the ten ASEAN member states and China engaged in in-depth discussions on topics such as artificial intelligence (AI) at the ASEAN-China Media and Think Tank Forum in Malaysia on April 11.

Speakers at the discussion session on major markets and connectivity at the forum.

In his opening remarks, Lyu Yansong, Editor-in-Chief of Xinhua, said the forum focused on how media outlets and research institutions can contribute to deepening traditional ties, fostering mutually beneficial cooperation, and building a closer ASEAN-China community with a shared future.

Media and research bodies in ASEAN and China can serve as bridges, Lyu said, amplifying the significant achievements of ASEAN-China cooperation and contributing to regional and global peace, stability, and prosperity in an era of profound change.

He acknowledged that while the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) brings new growth opportunities, it also poses unpredictable risks.

Lyu encouraged media and research organisations to embrace this technological revolution, leveraging AI’s advantages to promote continuous innovation and guide public understanding of technological change, all while aiming for a smart, secure, and innovative future.

Lyu expressed confidence that the forum will foster broader consensus and deeper collaboration among media and research institutions, contributing to the region’s development, recovery, unity, and cooperation.

Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Haji Yusof, in his address, said the forum reflected the shared commitment of ASEAN and China to deepen regional cooperation and shape a prosperous future amid global transformations.

He affirmed that media and research institutions play a crucial role in fostering mutual understanding and building a strong, sustainable ASEAN-China partnership.

Also speaking at the forum, Malaysian Minister of Communications Fahmi Fadzil expressed confidence that the event will strengthen regional collaboration in information exchange, journalism training, media ethics, and digital capacity-building.

He underscored the media’s proactive role in shaping perception and fostering deeper mutual understanding in ASEAN-China relations. Malaysia, he said, stands ready to support initiatives promoting media development, dialogue, and digital innovation for regional benefit.

The forum featured three key discussion themes: promoting civilisational exchange and setting a model for the Southern hemisphere, advancing maritime silk road cooperation and outlining a new path for peaceful development, and harnessing the AI revolution and seizing unprecedented opportunities.

Julia Roknifard, Senior Lecturer in International Relations at Taylor's University (Malaysia), observed that both media and academic communities recognise the positive trajectory of ASEAN-China ties, as well as Malaysia-China relations in particular.

One of the forum’s 18 speakers, Dr. Ei Sun Oh, Principal Adviser at the Pacific Research Centre of Malaysia, highlighted the close and traditional partnership between China and ASEAN in trade, investment, and security. He expressed hope that this relationship will continue to thrive, improving the quality of life for people across the region.

The forum was held in the lead-up to 2025, designated the Year of ASEAN - China Humanistic Exchange, which also marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the ASEAN Community.

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