KUALA LUMPUR, 8 May 2025 – The 17th ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Information (AMRI) conference concluded today with the adoption of the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on the Responsible and Safe Use of Social Media, marking a significant regional commitment to combat online harm and misinformation.
The declaration, endorsed by information ministers from ASEAN member states, outlines collaborative strategies to promote digital literacy, curb the spread of false information, and create safer online environments—especially for vulnerable groups such as children and youth.
Malaysian Communications and Digital Minister, Fahmi Fadzil, who chaired the conference, emphasized the urgency of regional action amid rising concerns over online abuse, cyberbullying, and digital misinformation.
“The Kuala Lumpur Declaration is not just a political commitment, but a regional pledge to foster digital responsibility and accountability. We must ensure that the digital space does not become a threat to peace, social cohesion, and democracy,” said Fahmi during the closing ceremony.
The declaration includes several key action points:
Promoting digital literacy across all age groups;
Strengthening collaboration with technology platforms to tackle harmful content;
Enhancing fact-checking and media education initiatives;
Supporting the development of policies that uphold human rights and freedom of expression while curbing abuse.
The AMRI conference also provided a platform for ASEAN countries to share best practices and discuss future frameworks for regulating digital platforms without stifling innovation.
Delegates from ASEAN dialogue partners, including China, Japan, and South Korea, were also present, reflecting broader regional interest in safer digital ecosystems.
This year’s AMRI was held in conjunction with the 2025 ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, which has brought together leaders from Southeast Asia to discuss a range of political, economic, and digital transformation issues.
Source – Bernama
