Cambodia's Information Ministry Urges Closer Media Cooperation for National Interest and Security

The Ministry of Information has emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation and building good relationships between provincial information departments and journalists, which serve as a robust foundation for providing accurate and trustworthy information, especially concerning military affairs and the territorial integrity of Cambodia. During an orientation meeting on "Information and Public Opinion Work" for public officials of the Banteay Meanchey Provincial Information Department on the afternoon of July 15, Mr. Tep Asnarith, Undersecretary of State and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Information, stated that understanding the needs for cooperation between officials of the information department and local journalists, or those from other provinces across the country, is crucial for promoting professional and quality information dissemination, particularly regarding national security. He noted that this cooperation should be conducted regularly and through all available means to support journalistic needs and provide key insights to facilitate journalists' work in gathering information and interviewing relevant officials, authorities, and stakeholders. Simultaneously, timely and comprehensive information provision will help protect journalists from disseminating inaccuracies that could lead to reactions or legal issues. Furthermore, the Ministry of Information's spokesperson encouraged all journalists to cooperate with authorities and coordinate with the information departments of all 25 provinces and cities to foster good relationships and a culture of collaboration in disseminating accurate information. The primary goal is to ensure responsible information dissemination that does not harm national security or individual honor, by collectively adhering strictly to professional ethics. Mr. Tep Asnarith stated, "As a lesson from the past, during periods of territorial integrity violations by the Thai side, the Ministry of Information observed that a small number of journalists strayed, reporting in ways that affected national security and military secrets. Such careless dissemination became a burden and caused severe consequences." Therefore, he stressed that cooperation within the framework of collaboration and facilitation of journalistic work is not only essential for enhancing capability and professionalism but also a paramount duty for the common cause of our motherland. Mr. Sek Sokum, Director of the Banteay Meanchey Provincial Information Department, expressed his full support for the Ministry of Information's spokesperson's guidance. He affirmed his readiness to cooperate closely with journalists from all directions intending to gather news in Banteay Meanchey province, promising to facilitate coordination with relevant parties to enable journalists to perform their duties in accordance with professional ethics.