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Communication and Media Centre (Comet)

COMETIC '24

COMMUNICATION AND MEDIA CENTRE
INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2024

"Communication and Media Pause: Reflecting Values and Impacts"
16 - 17 October 2024
ISTAC, IIUM

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ABOUT THE CONFERENCE

In a world ever anchored in constant flux and relentless evolution, the role of communication and media stands as both the mirror and the compass of societal progression. The ‘Communication and Media Pause: Reflecting Values and Impacts’ theme of COMETIC 24’ echoes a clarion call to pause amidst the tumultuous seas of chaos, crises, disruptions, and the labyrinthine challenges of the postmodern era 

This pivotal conference underscores the imperative need for a collective breath—a pause—in the whirlwind of information dissemination. It beckons professionals, scholars, and innovators in the communication and media sphere to contemplate, introspect, and recalibrate. Now, more than ever, is the moment to introspectively navigate the waves of change, to re-evaluate practices, and to reconstruct goals that align with values and sustainably impact our global community. As the digital age catapults us into an era of instantaneous connectivity, it becomes crucial to deliberate on the essence of communication and media’s role in shaping narratives, perceptions, and societal paradigms. 

The theme invites discourse on recalibrating ethical standards, navigating misinformation, embracing diversity, and leveraging technology responsibly. Ultimately, this theme challenges us to realign with core values, reassess impacts, and collectively propel these indispensable platforms towards an era of conscientious and impactful communication strategies.

GUIDELINES AND REQUIREMENTS

COLLABORATORS

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

"Media Integrity: Reflections on Upholding Truth, Transparency, and Trust" October 16th, 10.30

YBhg. TAN SRI JOHAN JAAFFAR

Media Icon & Thought Leader

Tan Sri Johan Jaaffar is a stalwart figure in the Malaysian media landscape, boasting a diverse and illustrious career. With extensive experience spanning journalism, editing, and creative writing, he has left an indelible mark on the industry. Johan’s journey began as a researcher, leading to key roles such as Chief Editor of the Utusan Melayu group and Chairman of Media Prima Berhad, Malaysia’s premier integrated media company.

His influence extends beyond media conglomerates, as evidenced by his leadership positions in organizations like Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) and Sanctuary Billboards Sdn Bhd. Notably, he served as Chairman of DBP and contributed significantly to Malaysia’s publishing domain. Johan’s involvement in national initiatives, such as the National Brains Trust on National Education and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), underscores his commitment to societal progress.

As an Adjunct Professor at prestigious Malaysian universities and a respected columnist for various publications including New Straits Times and The Star, Johan continues to impart his wisdom and expertise to future generations. His contributions have earned him accolades like the “Tokoh Wartawan Malaysia” (National Journalist Award), solidifying his esteemed status in the Malaysian media landscape.

"Changing Geopolitics of Global Communication" October 17th, 11am

PROFESSOR DAYA KISHAN THUSSU

Renowned Scholar of International Communication

Prof. Daya Kishan Thussu is a distinguished scholar renowned for his expertise in international communication. He is a Professor of International Communication at Hong Kong Baptist University’s School of Communication, his academic journey has been marked by significant contributions to the field.He has served as a Visiting Distinguished Professor and held the prestigious Inaugural Disney Chair in Global Media at Schwarzman College, Tsinghua University, Beijing. Prior to this, he held the role of Professor of International Communication at the University of Westminster in London for many years, where he also founded and co-directed the India Media Centre and served as a Research Advisor to the China Media Centre.

Prof. Thussu is the accomplished author of the widely acclaimed “International Communication: Continuity and Change,” now in its third edition. He serves as the Managing Editor of the Sage journal “Global Media and Communication” since 2005 and is the series editor for two Routledge book series: “Internationalizing Media Studies” and “Routledge Advances in Internationalizing Media Studies.”

Prof. Thussu currently holds the esteemed position of President of the International Association for Media and Communication Research (IAMCR), further solidifying his stature as a leading figure in the realm of international communication scholarship.Ho

"Navigating Digital Disruption: Reflections on Transformative Technologies and Their Impacts on Media, Communication and Society" October 17th, 3.30pm

DR. RONNY ADHIKARYA

Global Development Leader & Communication Expert

With a distinguished academic background including a MPS from Cornell University in 1972 and a Ph.D. from Stanford University in 1981, Dr. Ronny Adhikarya,boasts a remarkable 50-year career in international development assistance. His tenure includes managerial roles at the World Bank in Washington D.C., USA, and senior positions at the United Nations/FAO in Rome, Italy, alongside engagements with various international organizations worldwide. With official missions in 52 countries and visits to 103 countries as of 2022, Dr. Adhikarya’s global perspective is deeply enriched.

Renowned as a global “Story-Teller,”  his prolific post-retirement career includes delivering public lectures in at least 28 countries from 2005 to 2022, covering a wide spectrum of topics including digital disruption, AI-tech-based applications, and their impacts on education, business, shared-economy, and societal cohesion.

In recognition of his transformative leadership, Dr. Adhikarya was honored with the 2022 ASIA COMMUNICATION AWARD by AMIC (Asian Media Information and Communication Centre). He has authored eight books published internationally and served on numerous international advisory boards and committees. Currently residing in Honolulu, Hawaii, Dr. Adhikarya is actively involved in fostering educational initiatives through the R-Adhikarya “Niche” Awards (RANA), aimed at nurturing innovative thinking among young scholars. His extensive contributions continue to inspire and shape global discourse on development and innovation

PLENARY SESSIONS

Leadership in Media Industry: Navigating Challenges and Embracing Change - October 16th, 2.30 - 3.30pm

Dato' Yong Soo Heong
President,
Malaysian Press Institute

Datuk Suhaimi Sulaiman
Director General,
Radio Television Malausia

Madam Mediha Mahmood
Chief Executive Officer,
Content Forum Malaysia

Dilemmas in Crisis Communication: Balancing Transparency and Sensitivity - October 17th, 2.30pm - 3.30pm ​

Prof. Dato' Sri Dr. Syed Arabi Bin Syed Abdullah Idid
Professor,
International Islamic University Malaysia

Mr. Jaffri Amin
President,
Institute Public Relations Malaysia

Mr. Abdul Latiff Putih MIPR, APR
Founder,
White and Associates