Kuwait's Deputy Minister of Media: Speed and accuracy of government information are key to countering rumors

Dubai, September 17 (KUNA) -- Kuwait’s Undersecretary of Media, Dr. Nasser Muhaisen, emphasized today, Thursday, the importance of rapidly and accurately conveying government information from official sources, thereby bridging the gap between the government’s message and the public and curbing the spread of rumors and misinformation. His remarks came during a panel discussion titled “The Public Has Changed… Has Government Communication Changed?” held as part of the Arab Media Summit 2026 in Dubai. The session was moderated by journalist Hiba Zaarour and featured a number of specialists and officials in the field of government communication.

Dr. Muhaisen stated that the Government Communication Center in Kuwait represents an integrated system that consolidates the government platforms of ministries, agencies, and institutions, enabling the swift and accurate dissemination of information through official, verified accounts, official spokespersons, and direct appearances by officials across various media channels. He added that government communication platforms work to simplify official messages, making them clear and accessible to the public, while leveraging press conferences, television interviews, and other modern tools to enhance direct engagement with the audience.

Dr. Muhaisen stressed the importance of responding swiftly to rumors, avoiding any time lag that allows them to spread. He explained that rumors thrive in what he described as an “information vacuum,” a period devoid of factual updates. He underscored the necessity of filling this vacuum with accurate and clear information, even if not all details are available initially, with further information to be provided later. He emphasized that speed in response must always be coupled with accuracy, transparency, and consideration of the nature and scale of the rumor.

For his part, Dr. Nidal Shiqqa, a professor of strategic communication and government relations, said during the session that changes in the public and in how information is consumed have imposed a new reality on government communication. Information now reaches the public faster, and audiences interact with it instantly via social media and news channels. He noted that the challenge no longer lies solely in disseminating information, but in building trust amid the proliferation of news stories and narratives and their rapid spread. He pointed out that the advancement of artificial intelligence further highlights the importance of direct engagement with the public as a fundamental element of the communication process.

Meanwhile, Dr. Zaid Al-Nawaiseh, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Government Communication in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, said during the session that the public now expects faster access to news and reliable information, compelling government entities to develop their tools and methods to keep pace with the rapid evolution of social media. He clarified that government bodies face the challenge of balancing the speed of information dissemination with its reliability, emphasizing the need to update government communication tools to reach the widest possible segment of society and deliver information more effectively.

The Arab Media Summit 2026 concludes its proceedings today at the Dubai World Trade Centre, following three days of specialized sessions and events. The summit is held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, and under the guidance of Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council. (End) S.K.M. / A.M.H.