Adapting to technology has become a national duty to bridge gaps that enemies can use in distorting the country's image, a UAE minister has said.

Speaking at the Emirati Media Forum, Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of State and Chairman of the Board of the National Media Council, said a strong media infrastructure needs to be formed to deliver messages internally before moving to communicating the country's image abroad.

He said as the media proved successful in adjusting and dealing with the latest tough changes and conflicts, the focus should now be on smart content and empowering the youth who can adjust best with technology.

"The situation now has changed and it isn't as it was before. We have to adjust to changes or else there will be a gap through which enemies of progress can get to us through. We have to fill this gap ourselves," said Al Jaber.

The media, he said, has played an integral role in reflecting the country's progress and its contribution to the war in Yemen.

He emphasised that news agencies must adopt innovation in its form and picture and give tools to empower the youth as to create strong and maintain strong infrastructure.

"The youth are more capable than anyone in grasping technology. As media agencies, I cannot stress enough how important it is for us to provide them with the tools to empower and help them excel in what they do," said Al Jaber.

He noted that for the media to deliver its messages globally, education and awareness need to be spread to ensure the correct message of the UAE's progress is delivered. That is why, he said, media needs to focus on innovation in stating the facts to different cultures and languages before moving globally.

Al Jaber emphasised that the UAE media succeeded in uniting with neighbouring countries to combat extremism and terrorism and fight hatred speeches through its traditional and new platforms.

"Our response to the past challenges has been quick, credible and transparent, and it wouldn't have happened if we didn't work together as one unified team that was quick to step on its feet during crises," said Al Jaber. "This is a step we need to keep and take forward when adjusting to the fast-paced changes."

And while integrating media platforms is essential, Al Jaber emphasised that diversity is a critical success factor that makes media reflect the country's progress.

Source: Khaleej Times