SEBERANG JAYA, June 20 — Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has reaffirmed that artificial intelligence cannot replace journalists.
Revealing he rejected a proposal to use the Media Innovation Fund to develop an AI application capable of generating news without reporters.
Speaking at the Malaysia Media Retreat 2.0 held in conjunction with Hari Wartawan Nasional 2026, Fahmi said journalists play an irreplaceable role as witnesses.
Primary source gatherers and fact-checkers. He stressed that quality journalism requires human judgement, experience and context.
Fahmi also urged media organisations facing financial pressures to engage with the ministry before considering workforce reductions.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting journalism and media jobs.
