Mister Manich of Thairath

Mister Manich (มานิจ สุขสมจิตร), senior editor of Thairath, one of the biggest newspaper publishers in the country, is also an invited lecturer to many classes across the country, with a position in Media Constitution Drafting Committee, spanning over six decades, offers invaluable insights into the evolution of the Thai media landscape, as well as in global scale from the perspective of a Thai journalist and the enduring principles of quality reporting. His recent article on media literacy in the news industry underscores the relevance of his perspective in today’s rapidly changing media environment. This essay will explore three crucial aspects of his career and views: the importance of ethics in journalism, the main problems facing the industry today, and his motivation for researching media literacy.

First and foremost, ethics plays a vital role in the career of journalists, as he has consistently emphasized throughout his professional life in multiple interviews and books that he took part in. For journalists, ethical conduct is not merely a noble ideal but a practical necessity. It forms the foundation of credibility and trust, which are the lifeblood of the profession. In an era where information flows freely and misinformation can spread rapidly, journalists’ commitment to ethical reporting becomes their most valuable asset.

Manich’s career, starting from his days as a trainee Bangkok Daily newspaper in 1958, has been characterized by an unwavering dedication to journalistic integrity. He has always stressed the importance of maintaining objectivity and respecting the dignity of news subjects. These ethical principles serve as a compass, guiding journalists through the complex terrain of reporting, especially when faced with pressures from various quarters – political or social.

Moreover, ethical journalism serves a crucial societal function. It ensures that the public receives accurate, unbiased information, which is essential for the functioning of a democratic society. As he often points out, journalists are not merely “purveyors of information” but guardians of truth and accountability. Their ethical conduct is thus intimately tied to their role as the fourth estate, acting as a check on power and giving voice to the voiceless.

Secondly, as someone who has witnessed the industry’s transformation over more than sixty years, Manich identifies several main problems facing journalism today. The advent of digital technology and social media has dramatically altered the media landscape, bringing both opportunities and challenges. The 24/7 news cycle and the pressure to break news first often compromise the thoroughness of reporting. The proliferation of fake news and misinformation poses a significant threat to the credibility of journalism as a whole.

Another major challenge is the changing business model of news organizations. With declining revenues from traditional sources, many outlets are struggling to maintain quality while staying financially viable. This economic pressure can sometimes lead to a prioritization of sensationalism over substance, further eroding public trust in media.

Manich also points to the decreasing attention span of audiences and the tendency towards echo chambers in social media as significant hurdles. These trends make it increasingly difficult for in-depth, nuanced reporting to reach and engage audiences effectively.

Lastly, his motivation to conduct extended research on media literacy in the news industry stems from his recognition of these contemporary challenges. Having witnessed the transformative power of information throughout his career, he understands that in today’s digital age, the ability to evaluate and understand media messages critically is more crucial than ever.

His research into media literacy is driven by a desire to empower audiences to navigate the complex media landscape effectively. By promoting media literacy aims to cultivate a more discerning public that can distinguish between credible journalism and unreliable information. This, in turn, he believes, will create a more informed citizenry and eventually strengthen the foundation of a democratic society.

Furthermore, Manich sees media literacy as a two-way street. It’s not just about educating the public but also about journalists understanding their audience better. This mutual understanding can lead to more effective communication and a stronger, more trusted journalism industry.