Sarawak journalism groups launch AI training to move beyond 'churnalism'
Business Events Sarawak and local journalism associations launched an AI literacy programme for 35 media practitioners on June 8, aiming to help journalists move beyond routine reporting by using AI tools for deeper research and stronger storytelling.
The "AI Masterclass: Strategic Usage, Productivity & Efficiency" programme teaches journalists to use AI as a tool that supports professional judgment rather than replaces it. Participants will learn to apply AI responsibly in daily work while maintaining core journalistic ethics.
What journalists will gain
Ronnie Teo, president of the Kuching Division Journalists Association, said the training addresses a specific gap in the industry. "We need the media community to move beyond 'churnalism' and use AI to support deeper research, stronger storytelling and more meaningful journalism," he said.
AI literacy helps journalists uncover important issues, tell compelling stories, and serve the public interest more effectively, Teo added. The training also keeps media practitioners relevant as the industry evolves.
Nancy Nais, president of the Commonwealth Journalists Association's Sarawak branch, said the programme ensures journalists can leverage AI tools while upholding journalistic standards. "Building AI literacy would help journalists remain competitive and better equipped to deliver quality journalism that serves communities across Sarawak," she said.
Why industry groups are investing
Jason Tan Chin Foo, acting chief executive of Business Events Sarawak, said equipping media practitioners with emerging technologies helps stakeholders understand how business events support Sarawak's economic growth.
Ongoing learning and knowledge sharing build a stronger media ecosystem, Tan said. The programme supports Sarawak's broader goal of becoming a knowledge-driven destination.
For journalists looking to develop these skills further, resources on prompt engineering and AI research courses can deepen practical capabilities in using AI for reporting work.
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