Rais: New tech transforms communication

The advent of new communication technology has brought about a profound transformation in the way people communicate and share knowledge as well as information, Information, Communications and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim said on Monday.

He said new technology, such as interactive TV and IPTV, offered vast opportunities for public participation and engagement.

"The use of Media is expanded further and the time has come to examine the roots and routes of media, communication and culture," he said in his speech at the international conference on broadcast training, here.

The text of his speech was read out by Deputy Information, Communications and Culture Minister Datuk Joseph Salang.

Rais said audiences were proactive in seeking information and had the power to voice out their desires and the capability to create space for social and cultural change.

"The impact of HDTV (High Definition TV) should not be underestimated as not only the entertainment value is better but messages to the people can be more effective."

He said HDTV news programmes could show very clear images of events unfolding in the country, and this would help convince viewers and help eliminate confusion in the minds of the public.

"Technological development in the form of HDTV can deliver sharp pictures and surround sound," he added.

The first such international conference drew 60 people from 43 broadcasting training centres and organisations from 24 countries in the Asia Pacific region, Europe, the Arab States and Africa.

The two-day conference will discuss topics such as cutting-edge training tools and methodologies, creative content for programming, the challenges of HDTV, and attracting and retaining talent.