AKP Phnom Penh, July 19, 2025 --

Cambodia is set to showcase its initiatives and landmark achievements in the fight against fake news at the upcoming 20th Asian Media Summit (AMS) and related meetings, scheduled for July 21-24 in Siem Reap province, to foster regional cooperation and enhance joint efforts to further address the challenge.

In an interview with the National Television of Cambodia (TVK), Minister of Information H.E. Neth Pheaktra highlighted that when Cambodia first hosted AMS in 2019, the fight against fake news was already a key priority, and the issue remains central today due to its increasingly harmful impact on society.

With the rise of modern technology and artificial intelligence (AI), the creation and spread of fake news, fraudulent content, and misleading information have surged, so we must spearhead our cooperation to address this growing challenge, said the Minister.

According to official records, Cambodia reported approximately 2,630 cases of fake news in the first half of 2025, while in 2024, it recorded 3,621 cases that affected critical areas such as national security, public order, peace, and the economy.

To address this pressing challenge, H.E. Neth Pheaktra has initiated strategic information diplomacy to foster collaboration with key players and other countries.

Under his leadership, the Ministry of Information also launched a nationwide campaign against fake news in April 2025, aimed at changing public behaviour and deepening citizens’ understanding of its impact and prevention strategies.

H.E. Neth Pheaktra emphasised that these efforts are not intended to suppress freedom of expression or publication, but rather to enhance the quality and security of information for the public.

With the experiences and achievements, Cambodia will share its experiences and best practices with AMS participants and looks forward to learning from other countries to develop joint initiatives that strengthen regional cooperation.

Undersecretary of State and Ministry Spokesperson H.E. Tep Asnarith echoed the importance, noting that fake news undermines public trust and poses serious risks to national security, social stability, and international relations.

He added that the 20th AMS will serve as a vital international platform to address these challenges, focusing on countering disinformation, promoting public awareness, advancing media literacy, and reinforcing information diplomacy.

Bringing together about 700 media delegates, keynote speakers, and partners from approximately 50 countries, the summit will also cover information exchange mechanisms, crisis response strategies, and measures to ensure information security.

 
Article in Khmer by Kong Sereyroth
Article in English by C. Nika