Artificial Intelligence in Sinar Harian: Embracing Readiness or Addressing Anxiety?

Abstract

The infiltration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the newsroom has ignited several questions among media practitioners. Some of them believe this technology can improve journalistic work, regain trust among audiences, and sustain business prospect. Others doubt the use of this technology as some scholars have warned that AI can pose a threat to journalism because the technology has a potential to replace reporters in the newsroom. Due to this, some are ready to adapt and adopt the technology for journalistic work, but others are reluctant to embrace the technology in the newsroom because they worried AI will take their roles and leads to job loss. Hence, a study was conducted to measure the impact of AI in the newsroom. Using qualitative methods, this study involved ten reporters from Sinar Harian. Data gathered from in-depth interview were analysed thematically.  As a result, three themes emerged: ‘Aware,’ ‘Enhance’ and ‘Trust’. The first theme, ‘Aware,’ illustrates that reporters are not only familiar with AI but also well-equipped with relevant knowledge. The second theme, ‘Enhance,’ indicates that the integration of AI in the newsroom helps reporters produce higher-quality news. The final theme, ‘Trust,’ represents the willingness of reporters to embrace AI in the newsroom to enhance their work. By applying technological determinism to theorise this study, it is concluded that AI is inevitable for journalism as it will play a crucial role in shaping the future of journalism in accordance with technological advancements.