Mekong Countries Push Stronger Regional Cooperation Against Fake News and AI Disinformation

PHNOM PENH, June 3, 2026 (KPT) — Representatives from Cambodia, China, Myanmar and Vietnam have called for stronger regional cooperation to counter the growing threat of fake news, online scams and AI‑driven disinformation during a panel discussion under the Mekong‑Lancang Cooperation framework’s “Zero Fake News Campaign” forum.

The discussion, themed “From Viral Falsehood to Public Trust: How Mekong Countries Can Respond to Fake News,” brought together government officials, media leaders and fact‑checking experts to exchange strategies for tackling misinformation across the region.

Cambodia’s government spokesman Pen Bona warned that fake news, misinformation and disinformation pose serious threats to social cohesion, public trust, institutional credibility and regional stability.

He cited false reports on national security and border issues, manipulated photos, AI‑generated content, scams using fake accounts and hate speech designed to provoke hostility.

Bona said Cambodia responds through rapid fact‑checking, timely clarification, cooperation with media and influencers, awareness campaigns and legal action against content that incites hatred.

Chinese fact‑checking director Li Yiqing cautioned that AI has lowered barriers to producing fake content, describing the rise of “industrial production and viral spread” of misinformation as a major challenge.

Myanmar officials linked fake news to cybercrime, trafficking and money laundering, while highlighting national crackdowns and literacy initiatives.

Vietnamese media representatives pointed to the impact of misinformation on politics, economic stability, disaster response and social trust, noting profit‑driven campaigns amplified by platforms such as TikTok, YouTube and Facebook.

Participants agreed that stronger cooperation among governments, media, digital platforms, civil society and educators will be essential to protect public trust across the Mekong region.