Mainland journalists must broaden their horizons as China's affairs become increasingly globalised, a communications academic says.
Joseph Chan Man, who holds the chair at the Department of Journalism and Communication at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, said mainland journalists should be allowed access to more diverse sources of information.
'The more diversified the sources of information, the easier it is for them to get the truth,' Dr Chan said. 'But it is doubtful the Chinese Government will allow journalists free access to information.' He said the popularity of the media in the West could be attributed to its long history, abundant resources and high credibility.
'Only objective, balanced and accurate reporting will gain international popularity,' Dr Chan said.
Veteran broadcaster Robert Chua Wah-peng believed the mainland's new generation of journalists needed to better understand how the Western media worked. Mr Chua, who is to take up a lecturing position at the Faculty of News and Media at the University of Nanjing, said: 'As Chinese people are more open than before, knowledge on how the Western television industry works is necessary for the mainland's would-be journalists.' He is also chairman of China Entertainment Television Broadcast, the only 'foreign' television channel on the mainland, and previously worked for Singaporean and Australian television stations.
'Balanced programmes without sex and violence suit the mainland appetite,' Mr Chua said.
