Wong delivers his speech at the event.
SIBU (June 17): Artificial intelligence (AI) will never be able to replace journalists, as the profession requires human judgment, empathy and experience that technology cannot replicate, said Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh.
The Bawang Assan assemblyman said that while AI is advancing rapidly and can assist in various aspects of media work, it cannot take over the true role of a journalist.
According to Wong, journalism is not merely about gathering information but also requires reporters to be on the ground, witness events firsthand and understand the realities of a situation.
“AI may be able to assist in many aspects of journalistic work, but it will never be able to replace the true value of this profession.
“Journalists do not simply report facts. They also understand human emotions, the atmosphere on the ground, social relationships and the uniqueness of a community,” he said at the Gawai Dayak celebration organised by the Sibu Journalists Association (SJA) here on Monday.
He said the ability to understand context and build relationships with the community remains one of journalism’s greatest strengths and is difficult for technology to replicate.
At the same time, Wong noted that the rapid development of digital technology has brought new challenges, including the spread of fake news, manipulated information and misleading content on digital platforms.
As such, he urged the public to exercise caution when evaluating information and to rely on credible media organisations for news to avoid being misled by unverified reports.
Meanwhile, Wong announced a RM5,000 contribution to SJA to support the association’s future programmes and activities.
Also present were Sibu MP Oscar Ling, Lanang MP Alice Lau, Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng and political secretary to the Premier Joshua Ting.
