MIRI: The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in today's world of journalism must be accompanied by control and responsibility so as not to affect the accuracy and integrity of news reports.

Sarawak Transport Minister, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin stressed that although AI is increasingly playing an important role in the tasks of today's journalists, its use must be done carefully so as not to produce inaccurate or misleading news.

“AI can help but if we are not careful, it can also cause problems.

“Sometimes if we are not careful, the news becomes AI news, not the right news, less accurate, and can cause problems,” he said.

He said this when officiating the Sarawak Media Sports Carnival 2025 Northern Zone in conjunction with the Sarawak National Journalist Day (HAWANA) celebration at J Sports PLT, Miri, on Saturday.

Recognizing the rapid development of the digital world, he suggested that journalist associations such as the Northern Sarawak Journalists Association (NSJA) collaborate with higher learning institutions to organise training courses related to the challenges of digital journalism and the use of AI in news delivery.

“Maybe Curtin University can help because they have courses in mass media.

“So that our journalists can follow the trend of developments in world journalism, and we can further improve the standard of journalism in Sarawak,” he added.

At the same time, he also suggested that media practitioners should not only focus on the technological aspect alone, but also pay attention to their own personal health.

He said that as a continuous support for the welfare of journalists, he has allocated RM10,000 annually to NSJA for the purpose of annual health check-ups.

According to Lee, journalists who are physically healthy and knowledgeable in the latest technology will be an important asset in delivering quality information to the people, in line with the aspirations of development and unity in Sarawak.

“I would like to encourage journalists to take care of their health, today's diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease are a major threat.

“Through this allocation, journalists can do medical check-ups and stay healthy,” he added.

Earlier in the morning, Dato Sri Lee also joined a motorcycle convoy with UKAS Director, Awang Putrayusrie Awang Redzuan and his entourage as a symbol of the spirit of togetherness and support for the organisation of the Sarawak Media Sports Carnival 2025 Northern Zone.-UKASnews