Misinformation, Disinformation Pose as Challenges in Digital Age, Presidential Spokesperson Says

A webinar titled “Criticism or Hoax in the Democratic Age”.

Misinformation and disinformation pose as challenges in the digital age where people can easily obtain information and voice their criticism through digital platforms, Presidential Spokesperson and Special Staffer on Communication, Fadjroel Rachman has said.

“Major challenges we are facing today are not criticism, but misinformation and disinformation instead. The problem is that misinformation and disinformation are often disguised as a criticism,” he said during a webinar titled “Criticism or Hoax in the Democratic Age”, hosted by the Indonesian Overseas Alumni Networks (JALAR Nusantara), on Sunday (7/3).

He went on to say that voicing criticism is the heart of democracy, adding that the acts are also protected by the Constitution, namely Article 28 of the 1945 Constitution.

Criticism, he added, also contributes to the development of science, progress of a nation, and successful implementation of policies and programs. Therefore, the Government expects inputs from various sides including JALAR Nusantara in the efforts to develop Indonesia.

Fadjroel Rachman expressed hope that JALAR Nusantara plays an important role in developing digital literacy of the public.

“Diaspora alumni joined in JALAR must inform the public about digital sanity, namely situation where digital literacy is utilized for the great benefits and productivity,” he said, adding that members of JALAR can also set an example of critical thinking and promote it through digital platforms.

JALAR Nusantara can also educate the public regarding the sound of evidence. Thus, they can learn to provide evidence based on research, journal, survey, and other credible sources when disseminating information.

On that occasion, the Presidential Spokesperson also appealed to JALAR Nusantara to educate the public about the difference between fact and opinion since most of disinformation and misinformation circulating on social media are opinions, not facts.

For the record, JALAR Nusantara is a community founded in 2018 for Indonesian students abroad who have returned to the country. The community which has 1,000 members serves as a platform to connect diaspora alumni and enhance contribution of the alumni to social activity.  (FID/UN) (RAS/MUR)