Countering misinformation requires both laws and access to trusted news sources, says Josephine Teo

That is why the Government has stepped in to support public service media, she says

- Goh Yan Han

Laws against fake news and manipulated content during elections will continue to be essential in safeguarding Singaporeans against information threats, but by themselves they are not enough to push back against misinformation, Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo said on July 16.

Instead, the Republic must try to prevent "cracks in our infrastructure of fact", which pave the way for rogue actors to dominate its media and information landscape, as has happened elsewhere, said Mrs Teo.

That is why the Government has stepped in to support public service media, she added, which ensures that Singaporeans have continued access to trusted news sources, and to uphold the integrity of the city-state's infospace.

"Our long-term goal remains unchanged, and that is to nurture a resilient information ecosystem – one where truth can stand on its own, and public trust is anchored in an informed, engaged and discerning citizenry," she said at the Singapore Press Club Awards 2025 held at Pan Pacific Singapore.

These efforts to counter misinformation are crucial because Singapore, as a diverse and open society, will always be susceptible to the dangers of misinformation, she said.

Mrs Teo cited examples from the 2020 General Election, when there were falsehoods on projected population figures and Covid-19 testing of foreign workers; and the 2023 Presidential Election, when there was a false claim that the Government could trace how individuals voted and penalise them for their choices.