ASEAN ministers approve Kuala Lumpur declaration on safe social media use

The bloc reaffirmed its collective commitment to cultivating a safe, inclusive, and responsible digital environment across the region.

Delegates attending the 17th Conference of ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Information (Photo: asean.bernama.com)
Delegates attending the 17th Conference of ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Information (Photo: asean.bernama.com)

Kuala Lumpur (VNA) - The 17th Conference of ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Information (AMRI) and Related Meetings wrapped up in Bandar Seri Begawan of Brunei on May 7, with the issuance of the "Kuala Lumpur Declaration on Safe and Responsible Use of Social Media Platforms for ASEAN".

In this declaration, the bloc reaffirmed its collective commitment to cultivating a safe, inclusive, and responsible digital environment across the region.

The conference reaffirmed the importance of promoting a resilient and people-centred ASEAN Community by addressing the challenges posed by the misuse of social media, including the spread of disinformation, hate speech, and online exploitation.

Ministers also highlighted the vital role of the grouping’s information sector in fostering collaborative engagement with key stakeholders, including social media platforms, to craft and implement practical measures to address harmful online content while safeguarding freedom of expression.

The meeting also acknowledged the ongoing development of the "Guidelines for Safe and Responsible Use of Social Media Platforms for ASEAN", which aims to provide pragmatic strategies for enhancing online safety and promoting cyber wellness across member states.

The declaration sets a strategic direction for enhancing the sector’s capacity in navigating digital era challenges, particularly in combating disinformation, managing the effects of digital transformation, empowering youth as key drivers of innovation in media and communication, as well as promoting the creative economy across the region.

It confirms that the 18th AMRI and its related meetings will be convened in Cambodia in 2027./.

VNA

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