Citizen journalism – a key platform for social change and community development

13 Sept 12:58 Key points summarised by AI

A panel at MOJO Asia 2019 highlighted citizen journalists' crucial role in social and community development, stressing the need for connectivity, mobile device utilization, and capacity building to uphold reporting standards.
Global initiatives showcase this impact: Rappler's 'social media for social change' project empowers Philippine communities with mobile journalism and emergency technology training, while Thai PBS cultivates public involvement through its MOJO Thailand network.
Furthering this trend, Sri Lanka's MEND program nurtures young mobile journalists for future readiness and civic engagement, and freelance efforts in Lebanese refugee camps provide refugees with the tools to tell their stories, fostering hope and confidence.

Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning

Today 15:28 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister announced the government will seek clarification from the Chinese Embassy regarding its recent travel advisory warning Chinese nationals about safety concerns in Thailand.
The travel advisory is anticipated to negatively impact the number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand, despite recent increases in arrivals.
A meet-and-greet event featuring Chinese actress Bai Lu, a WeTV Global Ambassador, was abruptly cancelled just days after the Chinese Embassy issued its safety warning, though no official reason was provided.
The Chinese Embassy's advisory urged citizens to beware of job scams, fraudulent investments, suspicious travel arrangements, and the risk of illegal detention or being lured to the Thai-Myanmar border.
Chinese nationals were advised to verify job offers, use legitimate transport, avoid high-risk border areas, protect personal documents, and keep family informed of travel plans.