Islamabad, May 12, 2026: President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) Sardar Tahir Mehmood on Tuesday said media narratives play a decisive role in shaping public opinion, investor confidence, social behavior, and the overall economic direction of Pakistan.
He expressed these views while addressing a seminar titled “Talk Shows and their Social and Economic Impact on Pakistan” held at the Chamber House, which was attended by university students, business leaders, and senior media professionals.
Sardar Tahir Mehmood observed that Pakistan’s economy is largely sentiment-driven and warned that excessive negativity regarding political instability and economic uncertainty directly affects investment, tourism, real estate, foreign direct investment, business expansion, and the stock market.
He stressed the need for a “growth narrative” centered on stability, entrepreneurship, youth empowerment, investment, and economic reforms. He added that constructive journalism and balanced discussions help strengthen investor confidence and national stability.
The ICCI president further stated that fear-driven and sensational reporting weakens public trust, expands the informal economy, and damages economic confidence. He urged talk show hosts to promote responsible journalism, constructive dialogue, and greater focus on economic development, exports, technology, industrial growth, and national unity.
During a panel discussion on “Media Narrative and Investors’ Confidence/Market Behaviors,” multimedia journalist Ather Kazmi said media acts as a mirror of society and should not solely be blamed for prevailing negativity despite shortcomings within the industry.
Former DG ISSRA at National Defence University, Major General (R) Samrez Salik emphasized that promoting positivity is a collective responsibility and called for greater focus on economic and social issues instead of political polarization.
Executive Director Licensing at Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) Wakeel Khan highlighted the rapid growth of Pakistan’s media industry and stressed the importance of responsible journalism, authenticity of news, and effective editorial oversight to curb fake news and sensationalism.
Co-Founder and CEO of Mishal Pakistan Amir Jehangir remarked that narratives should 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 policymakers and institutions must address the real issues faced by the public.
Anchorperson Faisal Rehman observed that governments function through institutions, administrative systems, and policy frameworks rather than media alone.
Senior journalist Abu Bakar described media as one of the most powerful tools for shaping perceptions and influencing mindsets, while anchorperson Nayyar Ali said polarization is a global phenomenon and fair implementation of regulations remains the core challenge.
Former ICCI president and Secretary General of the United Business Group Zafar Bakhtawari stressed the importance of promoting ethical and humane values in society, adding that sustainable prosperity requires businessmen and entrepreneurs to be respected as role models.
The session was moderated by Saima Sukhera, while ICCI Senior Vice President Tahir Ayub delivered the vote of thanks and appreciated Convener ICCI Standing Committee on Sister Cities Initiatives Sajid Iqbal and his team for organizing the event.
