As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape journalism in Southeast Asia, a new survey by Vero reveals that journalists across the region are increasingly recognizing the importance of AI in their work. However, they also acknowledge the need for deeper understanding and comprehensive training to fully harness this technology.
The study, titled “AI and Journalism in Southeast Asia: A Survey of Opportunities and Challenges,” offers insights based on a survey of 75 journalists from Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. It highlights both the enthusiasm for AI and the challenges journalists face in adapting to this rapidly evolving landscape.
“AI’s influence on journalism extends beyond just automation; it’s about enhancing the accuracy, speed, and depth of reporting,” said Raphael Lachkar, Chief Operating Officer at Vero. “As pioneers at the intersection of communications and technology, we are committed to leading this transformative journey, helping our clients and partners not only adapt but excel in this AI-driven era.”
Survey Highlights: Regional Embrace of AI
In Indonesia and Thailand, 95% of journalists have a significant understanding of AI, with a 95% adaptation rate in Thailand, reflecting effective integration into their work.
In the Philippines, 90% of journalists are familiar with AI, but only 52% have incorporated it into their workflows.
In Vietnam, while 78% are familiar with AI, 100% expressed a positive attitude towards adapting to AI’s impact on their work.
Despite the optimism, journalists also expressed valid concerns, including AI’s governance, impact on labor, and cybersecurity issues. In Thailand, for example, there is apprehension that overreliance on AI could compromise the quality and trust in journalism. “In Vietnam, the enthusiasm for AI is tempered with a keen focus on strong data privacy and security measures,” added Lachkar.
The Need for Tailored AI Education
The survey underscores the urgent need for tailored AI education. Journalists across the region are eager to fully understand AI’s capabilities to remain competitive in the fast-evolving digital media landscape. Vero recommends the following steps to ensure a positive integration of AI:
Educate: Develop and provide tailored training programs to facilitate seamless AI integration into journalism.
Acknowledge: Address concerns of seasoned journalists about AI’s impact on job security, copyright, and the integrity of journalism.
Be Transparent: Clearly communicate the functionalities and limitations of AI tools to build trust and manage expectations.
Be Responsible: Maintain a robust support system to address any challenges presented by AI tools, ensuring accountability and ethical usage.
“We envision this white paper as a catalyst for ongoing research and proactive engagement on AI’s role in enhancing journalism, ensuring it serves the public good while respecting the fundamental principles of the field,” said Chatrine Siswoyo, Vero Senior Advisor for ASEAN.
The full white paper on “AI and Journalism in Southeast Asia” is available for free on the Vero website and serves as a resource for communications and media professionals navigating the AI landscape.