Media narratives directly influence investors’ confidence and economic stability: ICCI President

Islamabad: Sardar Tahir Mehmood, President Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has said that media narratives play a decisive role in shaping public thinking, investor confidence, social behavior, and economic direction. Addressing a seminar titled “Talk Shows and their Social and Economic Impact on Pakistan” held at the Chamber House on Tuesday and attended by a large number of university students, business leaders and senior media professionals, he observed that Pakistan’s economy is largely sentiment-driven and excessive negativity regarding political instability and economic uncertainty directly affects investment, business expansion, tourism, real estate, foreign direct investment, and the stock market. He stressed that Pakistan needs a “Growth Narrative” based on stability, opportunity, entrepreneurship, investment, youth empowerment, and economic reforms, adding that constructive journalism and balanced discussions strengthen investor confidence and national stability. He further stated that media also influences the behavior of ordinary citizens and that fear-driven and sensational reporting weakens public trust, expands the informal economy, and damages economic confidence. He urged talk show hosts to promote awareness, responsible journalism, constructive national dialogue, and greater focus on economy, exports, technology, industrial growth, and national unity.
During the panel discussion on “Media Narrative and Investors’ Confidence/Market Behaviors,” Multimedia Journalist Ather Kazmi said that media merely reflects society as a mirror and should not solely be blamed for prevailing negativities despite certain weaknesses within the industry. Major General (R) Samrez Salik, former DG ISSRA, NDU, emphasized that promoting positivity is a collective responsibility and urged talk shows to focus more on economy and social issues rather than excessive political polarization. Executive Director Licensing PEMRA, Wakeel Khan said Pakistan’s media sector has witnessed significant growth with multiple licenses issued for news, entertainment, regional channels, and FM radio stations. He stressed that responsible journalism, authenticity of news, and effective editorial oversight are essential to curb fake news and sensationalism. Co-Founder and CEO of Mishal Pakistan Amir Jehangir remarked that narratives must remain human-centric to build public trust and investor confidence.
In the second segment titled “Impact on Informal Economy and Public Behaviors,” Ambassador Imran Ali said that policymakers and institutions must address the real problems faced by the masses. Anchorperson Faisal Rehman observed that governments are run through institutions, administrative systems, and policy frameworks rather than media alone. Renowned Journalist Abu Baker described media as one of the most powerful tools capable of shaping perceptions and changing mindsets, while Anchorperson Nayyar Ali highlighted that polarization is a global phenomenon and that fair and consistent implementation of regulations remains the real challenge. Former ICCI President and Secretary General United Business Group Zafar Bakhtawari emphasized that Pakistan must focus on building ethical, humane, and compassionate individuals, adding that no society can truly prosper unless businessmen and entrepreneurs are respected as role models. Ms. Saima Sukhera, Senior Advisor Trade and Government Relations, Pakistan Britain Business Council, moderated the session impressively, while Senior Vice President Tahir Ayub delivered the vote of thanks and highly appreciated Convener ICCI Standing Committee on Sister Cities Initiatives Sajid Iqbal and his entire team for their hard work to make the event successful and result oriented.