Social Media Algorithms Are a New Form of Digital Colonization

Social media illustration (Unsplash)

JAKARTA - Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital (Wamenkomdigi) Nezar Patria reminded the younger generation of Indonesia about the new threats in the digital era, namely the dominance of algorithms which are considered to have become a new form of modern colonization.

According to Nezar, social media algorithms and digital platforms are slowly shaping people's mindset, behavior, and how people understand information. This condition makes it increasingly difficult for the public to distinguish between facts, opinions, and information manipulation.

"Even the contents of our heads are slowly shaped by algorithms. What we like is constantly shown, while other views are eliminated. We live in a filter bubble and an echo chamber," said Nezar as quoted by Antara, Sunday, May 24.

Nezar assessed that the dependence of the younger generation on digital platforms makes algorithms a new instrument of colonization in the modern era. According to him, social media users are unconsciously directed to continue to consume certain information according to the interests of digital platforms.

He emphasized that this condition is dangerous because it can trigger social polarization, exacerbate the spread of misinformation and disinformation, and reduce the public's critical thinking ability.

"Now people first believe sentiments than facts. If you like it, you are immediately trusted, if you don't like it, you are immediately rejected. This is dangerous," he said.

Nezar also alluded to a World Economic Forum report that ranked misinformation and disinformation as one of the biggest global threats by 2026, even surpassing a number of global geopolitical risks.

Apart from the dominance of algorithms, Nezar highlighted the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) which is now developing from generative AI, agent AI, to physical AI based on robotics.

According to him, today's global competition is no longer merely a scramble for natural resources, but has shifted towards the dominance of data, computing technology, semiconductors, and digital talent.

"Today the most important war is the war of AI chips and technology dominance. If Indonesia is only a user of technology, our demographic bonus will be lost without a big impact," said Nezar.

He said Indonesia actually had a great opportunity because it was supported by demographic bonuses and strategic mineral wealth needed by the world's technology industry. However, this opportunity is not considered to be optimal without human resources who are able to master science and technology.

Therefore, Nezar asked the younger generation to strengthen their science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) skills and improve digital literacy so that they are not easily trapped in algorithm manipulation.

"We have to become players in the global digital industry. Don't just be a market and consumer of technology," he said.

Nezar also invited youth and student organizations to play a role in building national technological independence while maintaining Indonesia's digital space healthy, critical, and productive.