A discussion about media and information literacy was held at Sittwe Hotel in the Arakan State capital on February 26.

 

The event, jointly organized by BNI Multimedia Group and Development Media Group (DMG), was aimed at conveying the role of the media, helping media professionals review and assess the state of their industry, and identifying so-called “fake news” circulating in the social media sphere.

 

“The main purpose of this event is to share knowledge about the role of the media with all people, regardless of age. We need to carefully learn and review all sorts of news,” said Ko San Thel, BNI’s financial chairman.

 

Maung Saungkha, executive director of the free expression advocacy group Athan, also spoke about freedom of expression, security for media professionals and hate speech.

 

Phillip Soe Naing from the Khonumthung news agency shared knowledge about media and information literacy, information security, the right to information and methods for spotting fake news.

 

In addition, Man Yu Kyaw, an assistant editor from Narinjara News Agency and editors from Development Media Group (DMG) also took part in the discussions, touching on subjects including the current situation for local media and the difficulties they face.

 

Arakan State MP U Aye Thein for Sittwe constituency, representatives from civil society organizations, media professionals and enthusiasts totaling about 60 people attended the event.