AKP Kunming, September 17, 2025 --

A representative from Cambodia’s state-owned Agence Kampuchea Presse (AKP), has called on media outlets across Asia to embrace their "unique responsibility" as storytellers and truth-seekers, in a joint effort to counter misinformation and foster mutual understanding in a rapidly changing global landscape.

Speaking at the 11th ASEAN+3 Media Cooperation Forum in Kunming, Yunnan province, China this afternoon, Mr. Keo Chandara, Advisor to the Ministry of Information of the Kingdom of Cambodia and Representative of AKP, presented a vision for enhanced regional media collaboration rooted in ethical journalism, innovation, and a shared “Asian Consciousness” to respond to shifting geopolitics and the rise of artificial intelligence (AI).

“On behalf of AKP and the Cambodian media community, I extend our profound gratitude to the People’s Daily for hosting this significant forum,” Mr. Chandara said. “This gathering serves as a vital bridge, connecting our collective voices and visions.”

He emphasised that the forum’s theme, “Shared Media Responsibility for Exchanges and Mutual Learning Among Civilisations,” underscores the essential role of the media in building trust, promoting dialogue, and fostering solidarity—particularly within frameworks like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and ASEAN+3.

“In an era of global transformation, the media holds a unique responsibility to shape narratives that build bridges, not barriers,” he said. “We are the storytellers countering misinformation and the truth-seekers fostering trust. Our commitment to truthful, balanced, and timely reporting is more critical than ever.”

Mr. Chandara highlighted how the Belt and Road Initiative has profoundly reshaped Cambodia, pointing to its vital role in boosting connectivity, trade, and cultural exchange—all essential for the nation's socio-economic growth.

“As a partner in this journey, the media plays a pivotal role in communicating these stories of cooperation and shared growth with clarity and context,” he added.

He also addressed the rise of AI technologies, acknowledging their potential to improve efficiency and reach, while cautioning that such tools must be guided by strong ethical standards, human judgment, and accountability.

The 11th ASEAN+3 framework—comprising ASEAN member states plus China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea—was described as a powerful engine for regional understanding and shared prosperity. Mr. Chandara called for deepening a sense of “Asian Consciousness” and applying “Oriental Wisdom” to navigate global challenges rooted in a shared cultural heritage.

AKP, he said, remains committed to enhancing cooperation with media partners under both the BRI and ASEAN+3 frameworks. This includes sharing best practices, strengthening professional capacity, and promoting the dissemination of accurate information to support mutual learning among civilisations.

“We look forward to the discussions ahead, to building stronger professional networks, and to participating in the upcoming media workshop,” he said. “Such opportunities are essential for deepening our skills, exploring emerging technologies, and witnessing the remarkable progress and dynamism of our host, China.”

In closing, Mr. Chandara reminded participants that media influence extends far beyond headlines.

“Every story we choose to tell—or not to tell—shapes perceptions. We must embrace this responsibility,” he stressed. “For Cambodia, this means championing balanced reporting, investing in journalist training, and actively engaging in regional and global media cooperation.”

“Let us depart from Kunming with a renewed commitment: to be truthful in our reporting, respectful in our dialogue, innovative in our methods, and united in our mission to bring our peoples closer together.

Together, we can ensure that the media remains not a divider, but a bridge—paving the way for lasting peace, mutual understanding, and shared prosperity.”

By K. Rithy Reak