ASEAN Media Workshop Highlights AI's Role in Transforming Journalism

Exploring the Future of Journalism Through AI at the ASEAN Workshop

The ASEAN Media Capacity Building Workshop took place in Hong Kong from July 14 to July 18, 2025, gathering over 20 senior media professionals from ASEAN nations. The workshop focused on the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on journalism, addressing both opportunities and challenges. As the AI revolution continues to reshape industries globally, media professionals are exploring how to effectively navigate this new landscape.

During the workshop, attending journalists discussed AI's dual impact on the media industry. While AI has the potential to significantly enhance reporting efficiency, there is also the risk of overreliance leading to factual inaccuracies. Instructors from China Daily emphasized the importance of leveraging AI tools for technical functions like spotting spelling and grammatical errors but cautioned participants against allowing AI to dominate the storytelling process.

Doan Minh Anh, a reporter from VietnamPlus, pointed out that journalists must remain confident in their skills as storytellers. She stressed the necessity of using AI as a supportive tool rather than allowing it to dictate their work. This sentiment resonated throughout the sessions, highlighting the critical role of human judgment and creativity in journalism.

Understanding audience preferences was identified as another crucial aspect of media transformation. Zhong Zhen, managing director of Xiaohongshu's Greater Bay Area E-commerce Operating Center, articulated the necessity of creating emotionally resonant content. “Content that connects with users on an emotional level is key to engagement and accessibility,” Zhong noted, showcasing the balance between AI-generated content and the human touch.

A significant discussion point was the future of traditional media in an increasingly digital age. Justin Clarence Lao Tembresa, CEO of Lannang Studios in the Philippines, emphasized the need for traditional media to maintain high content standards while leveraging new technologies. He remarked that the secret lies in blending the strengths of traditional media with innovative approaches and safeguarding the warmth and relatability of content.

In addition to discussions, participants engaged in hands-on sessions focused on modern reporting techniques. This included photography skills where instructors showcased various equipment such as drones, action cameras, and pocket cameras. The journalists' enthusiasm was palpable as they explored mobile photography accessories that they could integrate into their workflows.

The workshop featured site visits in Hong Kong, including stops at the Legislative Council and Cyberport, providing attendees with insights into the city’s technological advancements and media landscape. Journalists from various nations had the opportunity to interact and exchange ideas, enhancing cross-border collaboration in the media sector.

Moreover, participants traveled to Shenzhen, where they visited the Shenzhen Nanshan Energy Ecological Park, a symbol of China's dedication to green economic initiatives. Soo Wern Jun, a senior journalist from the Malay Mail in Kuala Lumpur, described the park as a model for energy conservation and a source of inspiration she hopes to implement in her reporting back in Malaysia.

The event, co-organized by the Chinese Mission to ASEAN and China Daily, served as a platform for sharing knowledge and experience, focusing on the vital integration of AI in journalism and the evolving nature of media in the digital era. As ASEAN media professionals reflect on their learning, the overarching goal remains to harmonize technology with the sincere craft of storytelling in their respective regions.