ASEAN Adopts Declaration on Safe and Responsible Use of Social Media

Strategic Insights -

ASEAN foreign ministers came together on July 9 to adopt the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on Safe and Responsible Use of Social Media Platforms for ASEAN. The declaration marks a significant step towards fostering a safer and more inclusive online environment within the region. ASEAN acknowledged the efforts of the ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Information (AMRI) in promoting the safe and responsible use of social media platforms, enhancing cooperation to combat fake news and disinformation, and strengthening regional cohesion and mutual understanding.

Key Takeaways:

  • ASEAN has adopted the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on Safe and Responsible Use of Social Media Platforms for ASEAN, a collective effort to foster a safer and more inclusive online environment within the region.
  • The declaration acknowledges the commitment of ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Information (AMRI) in promoting the safe and responsible use of social media platforms and enhancing cooperation to combat fake news and disinformation.
  • AMRI has developed the Guidelines for Safe and Responsible Use of Social Media Platforms for ASEAN to support a coordinated regional approach to digital engagement.
  • ASEAN has welcomed the adoption of the Bandar Seri Begawan Declaration to Reaffirm AMRI's Commitment to Strategic Progress in Media and Information, which aims to strengthen ASEAN's cohesion and mutual understanding through the evolving role of media.
  • The region is expected to benefit from the ongoing development of the ASEAN Communication Master Plan III (ACMP III) (2026-2030), which will align with ASEAN's long-term vision under ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future.
  • ASEAN will implement the Work Plan for Information and Media (2026-2035) and the ACMP III to shape a responsive, inclusive, and forward-looking media and information landscape within ASEAN.

Statistics:

  • The 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting adopted the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on July 9.
  • The declaration emphasizes the importance of safe and responsible use of social media platforms in promoting a cohesive and inclusive online environment.
  • The Guidelines for Safe and Responsible Use of Social Media Platforms for ASEAN are in the development stage.
  • The ASEAN Communication Master Plan III (ACMP III) will run from 2026 to 2030.
  • The Work Plan for Information and Media (2026-2035) will guide the development of media and information strategies in ASEAN from 2026 to 2035.

Sources:

  • 12 Jul 2025 (BERNAMA News Agency)
  • Kuala Lumpur Declaration on Safe and Responsible Use of Social Media Platforms for ASEAN (no date mentioned in original)
  • Bandar Seri Begawan Declaration to Reaffirm AMRI's Commitment to Strategic Progress in Media and Information (no date mentioned in original)