Phnom Penh: Since the border clash on May 28, the Ministry of Information has detected a surge in fake news related to the ongoing border tension, said H.E. Tep Asnarith, Undersecretary of State and Spokesperson for the Ministry. The spokesperson revealed that over 90 cases of fake news have been identified on social media from early June to June 11, with most of the content focused on the border issue.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, among the more than 90 recorded cases of fake news-mostly from social media-approximately 50 involve incitement or socially harmful content. These include misleading, humorous, or insulting posts that undermine the morale and spirit of forces working along the border.
H.E. Tep Asnarith also pointed out that certain media outlets have published reports inconsistent with the spirit of Cambodia's press law and professional code of ethics. He noted that some of these reports rely on unofficial foreign sources, leading to public confusion.
To address the spread of misinformation, the Ministry of Information has implemented several key measures. State-run media, as the national voice, will deliver timely updates on the border situation, particularly regarding the mechanisms and strategic measures adopted by the Royal Government. Both state and private media outlets are encouraged to broadcast statements and press releases from the Royal Government, ministries, and relevant institutions to ensure the public receives accurate and reliable information.
The Ministry is working closely with other ministries and competent institutions to report fake news cases, clarify misinformation, and issue timely press releases in response. As most fake news originates from overseas, the Ministry has cooperated with relevant ministries to engage with companies such as Meta and TikTok to block or remove content that violates both community standards and national laws.
Furthermore, the Ministry will organise orientation programmes for media organisations, associations, and social media content creators in Cambodia. These sessions will focus on professional ethics and responsible journalism to promote the dissemination of truthful information, safeguard national interests, and uphold national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and ethnic harmony.