Jakarta, INTI - Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Nezar Patria highlighted the crucial role of journalism amid the flood of artificial intelligence AI-generated content, which is increasingly difficult to distinguish from real events.
At the Press Council and Google News Initiative Collaboration Forum held in Serang, Banten, on Sunday, February 8, he noted that AI developments have transformed the media industry landscape and the way the public consumes information.
Photos, videos, and texts created using AI now circulate widely across digital platforms and social media, making the public vulnerable to deception.
“Synthetic content today looks very similar to the original. Even trained individuals can be mistaken. That’s where the public needs journalism that works with verification discipline," Nezar said, as quoted in a ministry press release on Monday.
He emphasized that the main challenge in the digital era is not the scarcity of information, but a crisis of trust.
Algorithms and personalization systems cause the public to see fragmented realities tailored to individual preferences, rather than a complete picture of events.
Verification Discipline Distinguishes Journalism From AI
“Information today is abundant, what is actually scarce is trust. That trust can only be maintained by journalism with integrity,” Nezar said.
Nezar explained that AI lacks verification instincts, as technology only operates when instructed.
Without human oversight, AI cannot determine whether information is authentic or merely simulated.
"AI will not perform verification unless asked. This verification discipline is what separates professional journalism from automated content," Nezar said.
He emphasized that in the mass media industry, AI should be used as a production tool, not as a substitute for editorial decision-making. \
Humans must remain central in determining the truth, context, and impact of information on the public.
"Journalism is a public service. Amid the dominance of algorithms and AI, commitment to truth and citizens’ rights must not be lost," Nezar said.
He noted that the government supports building a healthy media ecosystem, encompassing journalists, media industries, and digital platforms.
According to him, quality journalism can serve the public interest while also generating economic benefits. He is confident that the public is willing to pay for access to credible news.
Conclusion
Amid the rise of AI-generated content, Nezar Patria underscores that trust and integrity remain the cornerstone of journalism. By maintaining rigorous verification practices and prioritizing human oversight, journalism continues to serve as a public service, guiding the public with accurate information and fostering a healthy digital media ecosystem.
Read more: Digital Minister Calls on Media to Safeguard Information Standards in the Fast-Paced Digital Era