Journalists Have Strategic Role in Introducing ASEAN To The Public

Jakarta, Jan 11 (Antara) - Journalists are instrumental in introducing the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to the people within the framework of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), Director of Community Affairs Directorate of ASEAN Lee Yoong Yoong stated. "We have conducted a survey, and the results show that 75 percent of the general public has a lack of understanding on what the ASEAN is," Lee noted in his opening remarks at the meeting of the Board of Directors of the Confederation of ASEAN Journalists (CAJ) here on Friday. He remarked that most people in ASEAN countries know the organization by the name the Association of Southeast Asian Nations but are unaware of its programs and benefits. "The involvement of the media is crucial in providing accurate information on the ASEAN and current issues in the region and prevents the spread of biased news," Lee asserted. Lee emphasized that journalists have a key role, as they can improve the people's understanding and prevent misconceptions regarding various issues while guiding them in facing challenges and utilizing opportunities offered by the AEC, which was established in December 2015. "Journalists and the media can help people in developing ideas, making decisions, and taking advantage of all opportunities provided by the AEC," he added. The CAJ Board of Directors' meeting was held in Jakarta on January 5-8, 2016, and was attended by delegates from Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam. The CAJ was established in Jakarta on March 11, 1975, by the delegates of the national journalists of ASEAN member countries.