Speaking at the opening of the 10th ASEAN Media Forum in Manila, ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn reaffirmed the ASEAN Secretariat’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the media. He emphasised the importance of responsible journalism in fostering greater public understanding of ASEAN’s regional integration efforts.
ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn delivered the welcoming remarks at the 10th ASEAN Media Forum (AMF) in Manila, the Philippines, bringing together media leaders, policymakers, academics, and communication professionals from across the region. The forum serves as a key platform for dialogue on the evolving role of the media in supporting ASEAN’s vision of a more connected, informed, and resilient community.
In his address, Dr. Kao reaffirmed the ASEAN Secretariat’s commitment to working closely with the media to strengthen public awareness of regional cooperation and integration. He highlighted the media’s unique role in translating ASEAN’s policies, initiatives, and achievements into meaningful stories that resonate with citizens across Southeast Asia.
Dr. Kao noted that the narratives shaped by journalists are instrumental in helping people better understand and appreciate ASEAN’s efforts to improve the quality of life for its citizens. By providing accurate, balanced, and engaging reporting, media organisations can contribute to building a stronger sense of regional identity while encouraging greater public participation in ASEAN’s development agenda.
The Secretary-General also underscored the importance of continued collaboration between the ASEAN Secretariat and media stakeholders to ensure timely, credible, and accessible communication. As ASEAN continues to address regional opportunities and challenges, partnerships with the media remain essential in promoting transparency, fostering informed public discourse, and strengthening trust in regional institutions.
The 10th ASEAN Media Forum reflects ASEAN’s ongoing commitment to engaging the media as a strategic partner in advancing regional integration. By bringing together journalists, policymakers, and academics, the forum reinforces the shared responsibility of ensuring that ASEAN’s story reaches communities across the region and beyond.
Source: ASEAN
