Government Public Relations Department (PRD) Director-General Sudruetai Lertkasem presided over the opening of the 24th General Conference of the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD), calling for media organizations to place trust, ethics, and public service alongside technological progress as the institute approaches its 50th anniversary in 2027.

Sudruetai, who serves as president of the AIBD General Conference, addressed delegates on the theme “AIBD Towards 50 Years of Media Excellence.” The opening ceremony was attended by Nepal’s Minister for Information and Communications Dr. Bikram Timilsina, South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation Secretary-General Md. Golam Sarwar, AIBD Secretary-General Philomena Gnanapragasam, Association of Community Radio Broadcasters Nepal President Arjun Giri, and representatives from member countries.

In her address, Sudruetai stressed that technological capability alone does not define media excellence. Credibility, professionalism, ethical standards, and service to the public interest remain essential as broadcasters adapt to rapid changes in technology and audience behavior.

Delegates reviewed AIBD’s work over the past year and discussed priorities, including AI, emerging technologies, digital transformation, public-interest media, disaster and climate communication, gender equality, and the long-term sustainability of media organizations. Members are also being encouraged to propose and jointly organize activities for AIBD’s 50th anniversary.

The Asia Media Summit 2027 in the Republic of Korea is expected to be a major event during the anniversary year. The General Conference is also setting the direction for AIBD’s next chapter, with responsible use of emerging technologies, professional ethics, and public trust at the center of its work across the Asia-Pacific region.

Source: NBT World