(FEB NEWS) Changing public information consumption patterns pose a major challenge to the sustainability of the broadcast media industry in Indonesia. This was conveyed by Putut Darmawan, Representative of the Head of Public Information and Communications at the Ministry of Communication and Informatics (Kominfo), in a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) entitled "Navigating a Changing Media Landscape" held at the ASEEC Building, Campus B, Universitas Airlangga , on Friday (May 16).
"In recent times, 23 print media companies have ceased publication, seven major media outlets have conducted mass layoffs, and one television station has ceased broadcasting," Putut stated in his presentation. He cited these facts as a strong signal that conventional media outlets are facing serious pressure to maintain their existence amidst the digital age.
According to him, this significant change is driven by a shift in information consumption behavior, particularly among the younger generation (Gen-Z), who no longer rely on traditional media as their primary source of information. "We used to focus on watching television, listening to the radio, and reading newspapers. Now, they choose their own preferred platforms," Putut explained.
He added that the younger generation prefers interactive, concise, and light-hearted information. "Today's millennials are different. While we used to wait for 'The World in the News' every night, Gen-Z doesn't have that habit anymore," he added. According to Putut, this shift in audience preferences presents a major challenge that media practitioners must respond to adaptively.
The Ministry of Communication and Informatics itself, Putut continued, has not escaped similar challenges. He acknowledged that the government had lagged behind in conveying information to the public compared to private media outlets. "We realized that while our media partners were moving quickly, the government was still slow to respond," he said.
As a form of adaptation, the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology is now moving away from print media, which it has traditionally used internally. Several government-published newspapers and magazines have been converted to digital formats or e-magazines. "We are also working to change internal behavior patterns. High printing costs are one of the considerations," said Putut.
However, he emphasized that technological adaptation alone is not enough. Collaboration between the government, media, and academics is crucial to building a healthy and relevant public communications ecosystem. He also expressed high hopes for students, including those from Universitas Airlangga, to become the next generation active in developing the world of media and public communications. He believes that many student activities can be a vital part of disseminating quality information, both on and off campus.
On the other hand, technological advances also present new challenges in the form of the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI). Putut cited the case of the misuse of a public official's face in an online scam. "A few weeks ago, a video circulated in East Java of the Governor allegedly giving away a motorcycle worth Rp 500,000," he said. He also cited a similar case involving the Governor of Central Java and public figure Dedi Mulyadi.
As a preventative measure, the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (Kominfo) continues to promote digital literacy through various programs. Putut emphasized the importance of improving the public's ability to sort information, understand digital ethics, and collaborate in building a healthy and transparent media environment.
Author: Dhamar Gandhang Panji N (E-Radio FEB UNAIR)