KUCHING: “Media and Information Literacy (MIL) is all about encouraging critical thinking, ethical judgment, and digital skills,” stated Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Minister Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn.
He emphasized that MIL goes beyond just consuming information; it’s the foundation for nurturing informed, engaged, and empowered citizens.
“In today’s world, truth can be twisted and distorted. The spread of fake news and misinformation has undermined trust in institutions, media, and scientific facts.
“Hence, MIL acts as a shield against these growing dangers. It enables individuals not only to absorb information but also to assess it critically and create content responsibly.
“It prepares them to recognize biases, question harmful stereotypes, and uphold ethical standards in media production and consumption,” he highlighted.
These remarks were made during his address at the Media and Information Literacy Week 2024, Global Media and Information Literacy Dialogue 2024 held at Pustaka Gallery today (Oct 24).
Sagah also pointed out the intriguing rise of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in contemporary times. This technology, capable of producing various content forms such as text, images, and videos, presents exciting opportunities for creativity, efficiency, and accessibility.
For example, AI can help create educational content in various languages, tailor learning experiences to individuals, and improve our capacity to handle large volumes of information.
“Yet, alongside these benefits arise ethical dilemmas. Our youth are coming of age in a world where the line between the digital realm and physical reality is increasingly blurred.
“They are not mere information consumers anymore; they are creators, influencers, and innovators. Therefore, we must equip them with the essential critical thinking abilities and ethical principles to navigate this world responsibly.”
“Our education system plays a crucial role in this endeavour. By integrating media and information literacy into our curricula early on, we can ensure that the younger generation is ready for the challenges of the digital era.
“However, the responsibility does not end within the classroom. Parents, community leaders, and online platforms must also actively participate in fostering these skills,” he stressed.
Sagah underscored the importance of continuous collaboration across borders, industries, and fields to guarantee that future digital tools serve the public good.
“I call upon all participants, whether policymakers, educators, media professionals, or digital content creators, to leverage the insights gained from this dialogue and apply them to your respective fields of work,” he urged.
