Minister of Information Neth Pheaktra has urged Chinese media associations and Chinese-language media outlets to help counter misinformation and promote accurate reporting on Cambodia, while strengthening responsible journalism standards.
The appeal was made during a meeting held on May 4 at the Ministry, where discussions focused on the development of media dissemination and cooperation in Cambodia.
The minister highlighted the importance of Chinese-language media in delivering accurate information about Cambodia to Chinese audiences, describing their role as essential in promoting the country’s image and countering misinformation.
The meeting also aimed to encourage closer collaboration between the ministry and Chinese media actors to expand the dissemination of positive news, particularly in relation to tourism and investment, while jointly addressing the spread of fake news.
Strengthened cooperation between Cambodian and Chinese media institutions was identified as key to improving reporting standards and tackling misleading narratives about Cambodia.
Ongoing collaboration between the Ministry of Information and Chinese partners in combating fake news has contributed to reducing rumours and promoting factual reporting.
Minister Pheaktra noted that Cambodia has previously faced reputational damage due to fabricated claims circulated by foreign social media users, including false reports of kidnappings intended to attract online attention.
He emphasised the need for wider dissemination of accurate information on Cambodia’s tourism potential, investment opportunities and broader positive developments to counter such misinformation.
Chinese-language media outlets were also encouraged to verify information thoroughly by consulting reliable sources when authenticity is in question, and to work closely with authorities to prevent the spread of false content.
The continued promotion of balanced and well-sourced reporting was underscored as vital to strengthening public trust in the media and deepening mutual understanding and solidarity between the peoples of Cambodia and China, he added.
