Jakarta, INTI – The overwhelming flow of information in today’s digital era, especially through social media, often makes it difficult for the public to distinguish between facts and hoaxes. In this context, the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs highlights the importance of a press code of ethics for AI usage to assist the public in sorting accurate information. This was conveyed by Farida Dewi Maharani, Acting Director of the Media Ecosystem at the Ministry, during an AI literacy event in Jakarta on Thursday, October 9, 2025. According to her, if AI is used without clear guidelines, the public could struggle to differentiate between accurate and misleading information. To address this, the Press Council issued Regulation Number 1 of 2025 on the Guidelines for the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Journalistic Works, ensuring that AI applications adhere to journalistic ethics.
AI and the Transformation of Journalism
Technological advancements, including AI, are bringing significant changes to the field of journalism. Information is no longer disseminated solely through traditional media but also through social media, which is accessible to anyone. While this ease of access allows everyone to become a content producer, it also increases the risk of spreading hoaxes and unverified information.
The Vital Role of Mass Media
According to ministry data, 69 percent of Indonesians obtain information via social media, higher than television (56 percent), internet portals (63 percent), and radio (5 percent). Nevertheless, Farida emphasized that mass media still plays a crucial role, as every journalistic product undergoes a fact-checking process. “The presence of media is very important,” she stated, underlining the media’s role as the primary filter for accurate information amid the overwhelming flow of digital news.
Technological Transformation Must Be Guided Together
Farida believes that the massive technological transformation must be monitored by all stakeholders to ensure a healthy, fair, and sustainable adaptation process. Mass media is required to use technology effectively, produce higher-quality content, and improve operational efficiency without compromising journalistic integrity.
Mass Media as a Pillar of Democracy
“Media is a pillar of democracy and highly strategic, especially in the current flood of information,” Farida added. With an AI code of ethics in place, the public can more easily distinguish between reliable information and hoaxes, while mass media continues to act as both a watchdog and filter, maintaining a healthy and trustworthy information ecosystem in Indonesia.
Conclusion
The AI code of ethics in journalism is not just a formal regulation but an essential tool to safeguard information quality, help the public identify accurate news, and ensure mass media remains relevant as a pillar of democracy in the digital era.
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