The importance of mass media, as a means to inform, inspire and connect people across the world, can never be overstated.

That is especially so today, when the world is flat and we are at the dawn of the information age, which is characterized by the wide use of new media that makes information more accessible and interactive than any time in the history of communication.

That is where the Asia News Network, one of the world's biggest media alliances, can play its due role.

Its two-day annual board meeting, which ended in Beijing on Tuesday, provided an opportunity for editors from major Asian media organizations to explore ways to better share their resources and make the Asian voice louder for an international audience.

Thanks to differences in culture and history, and sometimes restrained by ignorance, prejudice and stereotypes, the Western media, when reporting about Asia, do not always meet their professed standard of objectivity, giving rise to misinformation and misunderstandings.

It is thus imperative that the Asian media tell Asian stories from Asian perspectives.

There is much that can be done.

On maritime disputes, the Asian media can encourage reasoned debate, not whip up nationalism. They can highlight common ground and mutual benefits, so that peace can be preserved, not foster fears or fan enmity.

On economic development, they can highlight Asia's great growth potential and broad prospects for cooperation.

And the Asian media can do more to respect cultural diversity and strengthen communication among countries worldwide, helping create an accommodative environment where differences, whether in values or development mode, can be bridged.

Asia, which accounts for one-third of the global economy and trade, deserves being served by media organizations of commensurate influence, those that can help it set its own tone and get its voice spread far and wide.

After all, as one of the ANN's slogans puts it, "We know Asia better".