 |
| The discussion held by the RBC of UMM about the political situation before the 2024's presidential election. (Photo: Istimewa) |
Social media enable its users to express their ideas freely, including in political aspects, in realizing digital democracy before the 2024's presidential election. Dr. Aribowo, M.S., the Chairman of the Library, Informatics, and Digitalization Council of East Java Muhammadiyah, emphasized the idea in the political discussion held by Rumah Baca Cerdas (RBC) of the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) on March 15, 2023.
Aribowo explains further that a survey agency plays an essential role in society. Primarily, the Indonesian political paradigm still adopts mobilization politics like in the New Order Era. Whereas it should lead to political participation.
"Especially, the current era is the social media one which encourages freedom of speech," he said.
Also Read: Representing Muhammadiyah, A UMM Lecturer Discussed Islamic Law in the Philippines
On the other hand, the Vice Rector II of UMM, Dr. Nazaruddin Malik, M.Si., states that the economy has controlled democracy in such a big way. Politics is inseparable from the economy, indeed. Therefore, the economic aspect needs to grow significantly.
Meanwhile, Indonesia is currently demanded to improve both human and natural resources and technology-based production too. Hence, the economic system of Indonesia will advance and impact the political system positively.
Furthermore, the Head of the General Election Commissions of Malang City, Aminah Asminingtyas assesses that not only the economy and a survey affect a democratic party but also digital political narratives in social media. Fake narratives and news are often spread in society, mainly to netizens who incidentally are young people.
"Spread information on social media can vary, indeed. Some say the general election is delayed, whereas the news is untrue. Then people must filter which information is real or fake, especially students who tend to be emotional without thinking carefully," said Aminah.
Lastly, the Faculty of Social and Political Science of UMM's lecturer is Dr. Salahuddin, M.Si. MPA. he expressed an exciting idea. He claims that social media, as the democratic pillar contributed significantly to the nation in 2019. Then, it is not seldom that social media can lead to significant political friction.
"If democracy is based on great national values, it will develop well. We eventually can get democratic, populist, and visionary leadership," ended the lecturer. (imh/*/wil)
