Heaptalk, Jakarta — The current dynamics of society and technology are both challenges and opportunities for developing the journalistic ecosystem in Indonesia. According to the Minister of Communication and Informatics, Budi Arie Setiadi, these factors also determined the significance of the quality of journalism realization and the national media sustainability.
“The presence of the digital platform has transformed the pattern of society in consuming the news. This pattern also shifts the trend in their level of trust, even though the mainstream media is still trusted as a primary reference.” the Minister of Tech Budi affirmed during the National Press Council Seminar. (11/08)
Further, he observed the current transformation has delivered the gap in public trust in mainstream media and social media. He also viewed public interest in news continue decreasing, compared to increasingly attractive social media content.
“The opposite of mainstream media is social media or citizen journalists, which have emerged increasingly rapidly in the last five years. This point exemplifies several of the existing obstacles in our journalism sector.” Budi revealed.
For this reason, the Minister encourages press persons to utilize opportunities, particularly artificial intelligence implementation. Based on his perspective, the technology disruption, specifically the new technology innovation, could provide opportunities to elevate journalism activities.
“Associated Press (AP) is one of the news offices based in the United States that can increase the number of their news article production every quarter up to twelve folds from 300 to 3,700 articles with AI technology assistance,” Budi said.
Several reports also disclosed that AI technology automation can increase the efficiency of journalists’ work, such as news gathering, production, and distribution through this technology. Apart from checking the accuracy of the information, he also said that AI could provide news on actual topics and quickly compile interview transcripts from audio to text. Even though implementing AI technology is still relatively new in several institutions, Minister Budi believes there are many opportunities the journalism industry can exploit.
“I comprehend the colleague’s effort to present current and factual news. Hence, I appreciate the dedication of my colleagues in providing quality journalism to the community.” Minister Budi concluded.
Translated by Syifa
