The ASEAN–China Centre (ACC) is forging new ground by intensifying cooperation with major regional media outlets to deepen mutual understanding and promote cultural exchange across ASEAN and China.
Media as a Catalyst for Regional Unity
At a recent meeting in Kuala Lumpur during the Boao Forum’s regional roundtable, ACC Secretary-General Shi Zhongjun highlighted the pivotal role of media in advancing ASEAN–China relations. He emphasized that the ACC is launching joint seminars and training programs focusing on emerging media trends, ethical storytelling, and strengthening media influence across the region.
Recognizing the significant reach of national news organizations, ACC is preparing to partner with Malaysia’s Bernama to leverage its extensive influence—not only in Malaysia but throughout Asia—to bolster China–Malaysia ties, ultimately contributing to broader ASEAN–China cooperation.
Building on Past Milestones in Media Collaboration
This initiative builds on a series of earlier ACC-led efforts to spark media cooperation:
- In May 2025, the ACC co-hosted the ASEAN–China Media Cooperation Forum in Luoyang, themed “Harnessing the Power of AI to Enhance Communication Cooperation.” The event gathered media professionals and officials from all 10 ASEAN nations and stressed the importance of AI ethics, media integrity, and digital partnership.
- In 2024, ACC and the China International Communications Group (CICG) launched the ASEAN–China media cooperation network, aimed at fostering regular exchanges and collaborative projects between media entities from both regions.
Additionally, recent initiatives include an open-access media platform and task force—planned for rollout in Q3 2025—that will enable shared resources like training materials, case studies, and partnership opportunities for media professionals across ASEAN and China.
Vision for the Future
With rising geopolitical and economic complexities, ACC is anchoring its vision on media-driven soft diplomacy. The targeted collaboration with Bernama and other leading outlets aims to:
- Bridge cultural divides and strengthen people-to-people connectivity
- Equip media professionals with skills in AI ethics, storytelling, and digital innovation
- Counter misinformation while promoting balanced, trustworthy narratives that reinforce ASEAN–China unity
