The Ministry recognizes the integral role of the Internet in Indonesian society
The Ministry of Communications and Informatics (MCI) and the National Digital Literacy Movement (GNLD) Siberkreasi have organized the Digital Literacy Week in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, as part of the #MakinCakapDigital campaign. The one-day workshop, held on May 9, 2023, aimed to promote digital literacy to support digital transformation in the region.
The Ministry recognizes the integral role of the Internet in Indonesian society, including East Nusa Tenggara. The workshop aimed to educate the community and various groups in Ende Regency and other areas of the region about digital literacy and increase internet penetration rates in the country.
The importance of digital literacy was highlighted by Suprianto, Acting Head of the Ministry of Communications and Informatics in Ende Regency. He mentioned that many social media users are exposed to issues related to ethnicity, religion, race, and hoaxes due to a lack of understanding of the consequences of their actions. Thus, the Digital Literacy Week aimed to raise awareness among the communities in Ende.
Dr. Laurentius D. Gadi Djou, an Accounting Lecturer at Flores University, emphasized the importance of fundamental aspects in the digital world, such as respecting cultural norms, maintaining ethical conduct, and prioritizing personal and others’ safety online.
Indonesia’s digital literacy has been improving each year, with the Digital Literacy Index 2022 indicating a moderate level of digital literacy in the country. The index measures digital skills, digital ethics, digital safety, and digital culture. Initiatives by the Ministry have helped bridge the gap between digital literacy levels in urban and rural areas, leading to more even development of digital competitiveness in Indonesia.
Fernando Watu, the Head of West Detusoko Village in Ende Regency, emphasized the importance of collaboration between universities, villages, and the use of appropriate technologies to achieve the desired future. Digitalizing villages focuses on empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), enhancing their competitiveness by leveraging the right technology. Digitalization provides benefits such as broader marketing, direct consumer communication, and 24-hour availability, eliminating barriers related to education, age, physical condition, and location.
To promote digital competitiveness, various initiatives have been undertaken, including accelerating ICT infrastructure, fostering digital talent competitiveness, and promoting financial literacy. The workshop in Ende Regency involved diverse groups, including the Waste Bank Community, Mobile Legend Community, and MSMEs, showcasing the enthusiasm of the local communities. The event concluded with performances by local bands, stand-up comedians, and exciting door prizes.
