From 28 to 29 October 2024, the School of Communication at Xiamen University Malaysia co-hosted the 4th International Conference on Media Science and Digital Communication (MSDC) (https://themediasci.com) in Bali. The event, chaired by Associate Professor Dr. Wang Changsong, Dean of the School, marked the first time the conference was held in a hybrid format, enabling both in-person and virtual participation. More than 60 presenters from 14 countries attended, underscoring the event’s global reach.

The theme of this year’s conference, “We Are in Action: Digital Empowerment for Sustainable Development,” highlighted the role of media and digital technologies in advancing a sustainable and inclusive future amid global uncertainties. The conference provided a platform to explore how digital tools can empower societies in addressing complex challenges, such as climate change, socio-economic inequality, and political instability.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Wang emphasized that this theme emerges at a pivotal moment, where the convergence of media practices and technological advancements meets the urgent need for sustainable development. “Digital media and communication technologies can drive transformative change,” Dr. Wang noted, “by fostering rapid information dissemination, transnational collaboration, and collective action. Digital empowerment rooted in equity and accessibility is crucial to uplifting marginalized communities and bridging the digital divide.”

This year’s keynote speakers were Professor Dr. John V. Pavlik from Rutgers University, USA, who spoke on AI and Media, and Dr. Kenny Kihyung Bae from the Korean Broadcasting System (KBS), who discussed K-content and Its Global Impact. The plenary speakers included Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ahadzadeh Ashrafsadat from Xiamen University Malaysia, Dr. Martha Tri Lestari, from Telkom University Indonesia, and Dr. Siti Nor Amalina Ahmad Tajuddin from Sultan Idris Education University Malaysia.

The conference celebrated exceptional achievements, with Master of Communication and Culture student Hamdani Theodore Michael and Advertising Programme lecturer Ms. Nur Nadira Binti Mohammad Bashir honored with the prestigious Overall Best Presenter awards. Furthermore, Journalism Programme undergraduate Chen Kai was recognized as the Best Student Presenter.

The 5th International Conference on Media Science and Digital Communication is scheduled for November 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand.