Diskominfotik Calls on Media to Counter Hoaxes, Uphold Facts

Jakarta government hosted the peak event marking the 5th anniversary of the National Media Assistance Forum (AsMEN) on Tuesday (10/20).

Disinformation thrives when proper verification is skipped

Concurrent with Youth Pledge Day 2026, the celebration carried the theme The Spirit of Youth Pledge, the Soul of Mutual Cooperation: Synergy of AsMEN, Government, and Youth to Strengthen National Resilience.

Public Communication's Jakarta Communication, Information, and Statistics Agency (Diskominfotik) Head Shendy Adam Firdaus commended journalists on Tuesday for upholding journalistic ethics despite rapid changes in media technology.

Jakarta Diskominfotik Commits to Bolstering Public Information Transparency

Adam explained that while social media opens new avenues, the ease of user-generated content increases the risk of false information. He stressed, newsrooms must continue rigorous fact-checking to counter online misinterpretation.

"Disinformation thrives when proper verification is skipped. Content generated on social platforms works on a totally different wavelength than professional journalism," he expressed, Tuesday (10/20).

Adam also commended AsMEN's Journalism Competency Test (UKW) program, highlighting its essential role in enhancing journalists' professionalism and ensuring news coverage remains credible and accountable.

Adam voiced optimism that news organizations will continue partnering with the Jakarta government to spread constructive news and combat fake news online, adding that the government welcomes public feedback as a core element of democratic governance.

He added that coupling AsMEN's milestone anniversary with Youth Pledge Day creates key momentum for fostering patriotism and empowering youth to drive national progress.

"We hope news organizations remain strong partners for the city administration. Whether recognized or not, the media industry today faces unprecedented hurdles," Adam stated.