SINGAPORE — The Singapore government reaffirmed on Tuesday that all media organisations operating in the city-state are expected to uphold responsible journalism standards, warning against harmful practices that could mislead the public and damage social cohesion.

Speaking at a media industry event, Minister for Communications and Information Josephine Teo emphasised the importance of accurate, balanced and fair reporting, particularly in an era dominated by digital platforms and rapid information flows.

“The media plays a critical role in informing the public. It must do so with integrity, transparency and a commitment to facts,” Ms Teo said. She added that while freedom of expression is protected, it must be exercised responsibly and with respect for the community.

Her remarks come amid ongoing discussions about the role of news outlets, social media channels and citizen journalism in shaping public discourse. Ms Teo stressed that misleading headlines, sensationalism and unverified content can erode trust and harm individuals or groups.

The minister also reiterated the government’s support for strong media institutions and training initiatives to strengthen professionalism within the industry. She pointed to programmes aimed at enhancing journalists’ digital literacy and fact-checking skills, noting that these efforts are critical to maintaining public confidence.

Industry representatives present at the event acknowledged the challenges faced by media companies in a competitive landscape, including pressures to attract readership and adapt to new technologies. However, they affirmed their commitment to ethical reporting and collaboration with regulatory bodies.

Singapore’s regulatory framework for media outlets includes provisions that hold organisations and individuals accountable for false or harmful content. Ms Teo underscored that these measures are not intended to stifle legitimate reporting, but to protect the public interest.

“As we navigate an increasingly complex information environment, our collective goal must be to ensure that the media remains a trusted source of news and analysis,” she said.