FCI lecturer delivers keynote address at 2nd China-ASEAN Media and Communication Education International Academic Conference

FCI’s Kenneth Lee during his keynote address

Kenneth Lee Tze Wui from Faculty of Creative Industries (FCI) represented UTAR to deliver a keynote address at the 2nd China-ASEAN Media and Communication Education International Academic Conference that took place on 14 October 2023 at the School of Journalism and Communication at Guangxi University, China. Lee delivered a presentation titled “Spotlight on Malaysia: Crafting a global image through media narratives”.

The conference, organised by Guangxi University, aimed to promote interdisciplinary integration, highlight ASEAN-focused education, enhance internationalisation, strengthen the capability of constructing first-class disciplines, and deepen regional educational exchanges and cooperation between China and ASEAN.

The conference provided an excellent platform for exchanging ideas and discussing collaborative opportunities. Conference participants included counterparts from Southeast Asian countries, including Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Indonesia, and Singapore.

The conference was a significant component of a two-day event at Guangxi University, which featured a main forum and 11 sub-forums, addressing various aspects of potential China-ASEAN cooperation and development.

At the conference, Lee spoke about the media's role in shaping Malaysia's international image. He covered various aspects, including the promotion of the country's tourism through different channels and platforms, media coverage of business and investment opportunities in the country, as well as cultural exchange and diplomacy.

He shared, “The Malaysian media consistently offers insights into the country's economic conditions, business prospects, and investment climate, contributing to the gradual shaping of the nation's international image. A positive image attracts foreign investors and multinational corporations. Aside from that, the local media also plays a crucial role in promoting the country’s cultural events, festivals, and arts to foster international cultural exchange and diplomacy.”

“Media serves as a powerful amplifier, disseminating information, stories, and narratives that influence how the world perceives a nation,” Lee said. “Overall, there is a substantial amount of positive media coverage that strengthens Malaysia's international image and surpasses any negative coverage. Currently, Malaysia's international image includes elements such as cultural diversity and vibrancy, natural beauty, culinary delights, and economic vitality.”

Kenneth Lee Tze Wui is currently the Head of Department of Mass Communication at the Faculty of Creative Industries. FCI offers various programmes, including the Bachelor of Corporate Communication (Honours) and Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Journalism in Chinese Media, among others.

To find out more about the available programmes, click here.

Group photo session during the 2nd China-ASEAN Media and Communication Education International Academic Conference

Participants at the 2nd China-ASEAN Media and Communication Education International Academic Conference