ONLINE NEWS: EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION IN ADDRESSING GLOBAL CHALLENGES TAKES CENTRE STAGE AT 11TH ICSR

PUTRAJAYA, Sept 5 (Bernama) -- Effective communication in addressing global challenges took centre stage today at the 11th International Conference on Social Responsibility, Ethics and Sustainability (ICSR).

Graced by the Tengku Ampuan of Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah, accompanied by Tengku Puteri Jihan Azizah ‘Athiyatullah, the conference was hosted by Universiti Sains Malaysia's (USM) School of Communications.

USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Industry and Community Network) Prof Dr Azlan Amran said the conference was held given the need for effective communication with diverse communities and industries in dealing with current global challenges.

"This is the role of this conference, to serve as a platform for such engagement, fostering dialogue and collaboration across disciplines and borders," he said in his opening remarks during the event here today.

Azlan said the decision to bring ICSR to Asia, reflected the growing global recognition of the region's importance in advancing corporate social responsibility and sustainable business practices as well as Malaysia's emerging role as a leader in these critical areas.

This is the first time the conference has been held outside Europe since its inception in 2012. The ICSR conference serves as a crucible for scholarly dialogue and practical insights, bridging the gap between sustainability imperatives and the needs of the diverse communities crucial for their realisation.

Deputy Higher Education Minister Datuk Mustapha Sakmud was also present at the event today.

Meanwhile, Azlan in his remarks also addressed the role and challenges of technology and digital transformation in achieving sustainable development, which would be the centre of discussion during the conference to be held until Saturday.

He said while technology offered unprecedented opportunities to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and promote sustainable practices, it also posed significant challenges, particularly in terms of digital equity and the environmental impact of technology production and disposal.

"The digital divide remains a critical barrier towards achieving equitable development. As we embrace digital transformation, it is imperative that we also work to bridge this divide, ensuring that all communities, regardless of their socio-economic status, have access to the tools and opportunities that technology provides.

"This is a challenge that requires not only innovative solutions but also strong partnerships between governments, the private sector, and civil society," he added.

-- BERNAMA