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In an era where artificial intelligence can create convincing stories, images and videos within seconds, journalism is facing one of its most defining moments. The challenge before the media is no longer simply finding information, but establishing what is true in an increasingly crowded and confusing information environment. The future of journalism will not be determined only by technological advancement. It will depend on whether journalists and media organisations can preserve the values that have sustained the profession for centuries — truth, independence, verification, accountability and public trust. This was the central message that emerged from The Media Fest 2026, organised by the Sri Lanka–India Media Friendship Association (SLIMFA) at Taj Samudra, Colombo, bringing together leading media personalities, editors, journalists, academics, digital experts and communication professionals from Sri Lanka and India. Held under the theme “Staying Relevant in a Changing World,” the forum examined the transformation taking place across the media industry — from artificial intelligence and misinformation to changing audience behaviour, investigative journalism, digital innovation and the future sustainability of news organisations. The discussions demonstrated a common reality faced by newsrooms globally: technology may change the tools of journalism, but credibility remains the profession’s most powerful asset. Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha described MediaFest as an important platform strengthening professional dialogue between journalists of the two countries. He said India and Sri Lanka, as vibrant democracies with deep historical and cultural connections, shared similar challenges in adapting to technological change while protecting journalistic values. “As two vibrant democracies, our journalists share many common challenges, from adapting to new technologies and combating misinformation to sustaining public trust and preserving editorial integrity,” Jha said. He emphasised that closer cooperation between media institutions could help both countries learn from each other’s experiences. “We can certainly benefit from sharing our experiences, which is an opportunity this platform provides us. We can also use this occasion to strengthen partnerships between our media institutions,” he added. Jha said artificial intelligence, digital platforms and social media had transformed journalism by expanding the reach and possibilities of storytelling. However, he stressed that traditional journalistic principles had become more important than ever. “Accuracy, fairness, verification, integrity and public trust are more important today than ever before,” he said. Highlighting the resilience of Sri Lanka’s media sector and the scale of India’s media landscape, Jha encouraged greater journalist exchanges, newsroom visits, professional training and institutional partnerships. Describing the media as a bridge between people, he called for stronger collaboration to create informed and constructive narratives about both countries. “People-centric narratives can address past stereotypes and false narratives that sometimes inhibit meaningful cooperation,” he said. SLIMFA President Nisthar Cassim said MediaFest had emerged as an important professional platform connecting journalists, editors, media executives, academics, digital creators and communication experts. He said SLIMFA, established in 2024, had rapidly developed into a forum promoting closer engagement between the media communities of Sri Lanka and India. Through editor discussions, roundtables, masterclasses and training initiatives, SLIMFA had encouraged dialogue on issues shaping the future of journalism. Cassim said the value of such programmes extended beyond discussions, creating opportunities for professional friendships, knowledge sharing and institutional cooperation. Centre for Investigative Reporting (CIR) Director Dilrukshi Handunnetti brought the perspective of accountability journalism to the discussion, highlighting the continuing importance of investigative reporting in protecting democracy. She stressed that journalism must go beyond simply reporting events and must examine the deeper issues affecting society. In an age where misinformation spreads rapidly, investigative journalism remains a vital mechanism for uncovering facts, questioning powerful institutions and ensuring public accountability. Handunnetti emphasised that technology could provide powerful tools for journalists — from analysing large volumes of information to identifying patterns and strengthening evidence-based reporting. However, she noted that no technology could replace the essential qualities of an investigative journalist: curiosity, independence, courage and commitment to the public interest. Her message reflected a central theme of MediaFest — journalism’s relevance depends on its ability to serve society, not merely chase attention. Another key message from the panel was that organisations must experiment with new technologies rather than wait until others succeed. The speakers noted that AI, social intelligence and digital platforms would reward organisations willing to learn, adapt and innovate. By Ifham Nizam