PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - In the event "For Indonesia to Choose Smartly", the Minister of Communication and Information (Menkominfo), Budi Arie Setiadi explained that the spread of hoax issues is increasing ahead of the 2024 election.

"The distribution of hoax issues in 2018-2019 was 714. There was a decline in the following years. However, ahead of the 2024 election, hoax issues rose again to 204 from January 2023-January 2024," said Budi (18/1/2024) at the Hotel Savoy Homann.

He said that information chaos is a challenge in the digital era. As many as 62 percent of internet users have seen information chaos on social media. 87 percent of them believe disinformation influences politics in their country.

"The issue of hoaxes is indeed increasing, but we at Kominfo immediately anticipate it by taking down invalid information. Until now we are still acting according to our authority, but if there are legal consequences, it is the legal apparatus who will execute them," he said.

Therefore, he appealed to the public, especially young people, to be wise in filtering information and choosing potential leaders. Because, 56 percent of election voters in Indonesia are young people.

"It is hoped that the 2024 election will provide peaceful, healthy elections and improve the quality of Indonesian democracy. We must be optimistic about the situation. Currently, in my opinion, our democratic atmosphere is more conducive than before," he said.

"Please choose wisely, be wise in your voice, especially your thumbs. Thumbs must be protected in cyberspace, so you don't spread hoaxes before reading. Filter before sharing," continued Budi.

Meanwhile, Acting Mayor of Bandung, Bambang Tirtoyuliono, stated that conduciveness does not only refer to physical order, but also inner peace, mutual prosperity and mutual respect.

"Let's review together about community participation in the democratic process. The city of Bandung has experienced a positive increase in the level of political awareness of Bandung residents. However, the challenge that must be faced is increasing real participation in voting on election day," explained Bambang.

Regarding politeness and tolerance, according to him, the citizens of Bandung City have shown mutual respect for each other. However, in the face of differences of opinion, there is still room to increase constructive dialogue and mutual understanding.

"Order is the foundation of success. Therefore, all parties must be committed to complying with applicable regulations and norms," he added.

Responding to this, one of the participants in the event, Dwi, who is a student at the Bandung College of Law (STHB), hopes that the 2024 election can run smoothly, safely and peacefully.

Especially as a young generation, he admits that there are still many of his friends who often get involved in small disputes because of different choices.

"So no matter who the presidential candidate is, we as citizens must remain harmonious for the sake of the Indonesian nation. Different choices are natural, but they must still be addressed wisely," said Dwi.

Meanwhile, a student at the Indonesian University of Education (UPI), Sheany, revealed that he still doesn't know who he will choose. However, he is still looking for the background and vision and mission of the potential leader he will elect on February 14.

"Still in doubt, but still find out so we don't make the wrong choice. Because we also have to know who is in coalition with this candidate. That will also determine future policy," said Sheany.