The 21st Asia Media Summit, held at Villa Nautica from 11 to 14 May, has received positive feedback from international delegates who attended the event.
The summit, jointly organised by the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD) and Public Service Media (PSM), brought together media professionals, policymakers, and broadcasters from across the region to discuss developments in the media industry, emerging technologies, and the future of broadcasting.
Many delegates who spoke to PSM News said one of the most exciting aspects of the summit was the opportunity to attend a professional international gathering in the Maldives, widely recognised as one of the world’s leading tourist destinations.
“When my organisation first told me to participate in this year’s Asia Media Summit, I checked where it was being held. I saw it was in the Maldives. Since I had never been here before, I was truly delighted to be able to come for the summit,” a delegate from a Malaysian media organisation told PSM News.
Another participant representing a Singaporean media organisation said the experience exceeded expectations.
“Upon learning the summit was in the Maldives, I only expected to see beautiful scenery. But after arriving, I witnessed the industriousness of the Maldivian people and the excellence in their planning. This is at a much higher level than even our expectations,” the delegate said.
Participants also praised the logistical arrangements of the summit, highlighting the organisation and coordination provided throughout the event.
Delegates commended everything from the reception at Velana International Airport to the personalised attention given to participants and the efforts made to ensure sessions proceeded smoothly and on schedule.
As this year’s summit focused heavily on media technology and innovation, several participants noted that the quality of communication facilities and internet services available within a resort environment reflected the advancement of the Maldives’ digital infrastructure.
Some delegates also remarked that the warmth, kindness, and hospitality shown by Maldivians made them feel at ease throughout the summit, describing the atmosphere as one that provided comfort similar to being at home despite the professional setting.
The plenary sessions conducted during the summit were also widely praised by attendees, particularly discussions surrounding Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its growing role in media and journalism.
Sessions ranged from high-level ministerial discussions on media policy priorities to in-depth conversations on how emerging technologies and AI are transforming newsroom operations and content production.
“The sessions held here were very good. Especially the plenary session related to AI. In that, we learned that journalists, editors, and creative directors from some media outlets are already utilising it. They also explained the ways those media houses use AI. Very important information was shared,” one participant told PSM.
Another recurring theme in discussions among delegates was the capability and professionalism demonstrated by those working in the Maldivian media industry.
Participants noted that the successful hosting of such a major international summit by PSM served as an example to broadcasters and media organisations in other countries.
The 21st Asia Media Summit ultimately concluded as a highly successful international event, further strengthening the Maldives’ profile within the global media community.