PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - West Java Deputy Governor Erwan Setiawan encouraged journalists in West Java to continue strengthening their professionalism, integrity, and adaptability amidst developments in information technology and artificial intelligence (AI).

This was stated by Deputy Governor Erwan when attending a series of activities at the West Java Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) Conference, at the Horison Hotel, Bandung City, Thursday (13/8/2026).

According to Erwan, technological developments have changed the way people get information.

"In the past, we sought information through newspapers, radio, and television. Now, information can be found on mobile phones, even through artificial intelligence," said Deputy Governor Erwan.

Erwan also encouraged journalists to verify and ensure that the information conveyed to the public is true, accurate, and accountable.

"While anyone can create content, journalists must be able to verify it. Journalists must be responsible for disseminating information," he said.

Erwan believes that sophisticated technology and AI cannot replace humans in carrying out press functions. He stated that machines can help produce articles, but they lack conscience, moral responsibility, or a commitment to the public interest.

"Machines can produce text. But they have no conscience, no moral responsibility, and no commitment to the public interest," Erwan said.

He invited all ranks of the West Java PWI to work together to build a press capable of providing quality and accurate information to the public.

"Let's work together to make the West Java PWI proud. Provide good and accurate information to the public," he added.

PWI West Java Becomes a Creative Home

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the West Java PWI, Tantan Sulthon Bukhawan, believes that unity and togetherness are important assets for building a stronger West Java PWI and making a real contribution to society.

Tantan also conveyed his idea to make PWI Jabar an open space for developing the capacity of journalists.

"I want the PWI house to become a creative home, a learning home, and a service home," he said.

According to him, PWI West Java must demonstrate its existence as a professional organization that has value and benefits for society.

"I want to show that the PWI in West Java has value," said Tantan.

WEST JAVA PUBLIC RELATIONS
Head of the Communication and Information Service of West Java Province
Adi Komar