Meigitaria Sanita
,

Food and Traditions: How Ramadan Cuisine Reflects Culture

Ramadan

Ramadan is the most anticipated and cherished month for Muslims worldwide. It is a time of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and devotion, but it is also a month of unity, generosity, and cultural expression. Across different regions, Ramadan traditions vary, yet one common element remains: food. More than just a source of nourishment after a long day of fasting, food during Ramadan carries deep cultural significance. It connects families and communities, and reflects a nation’s culinary identity. The dishes prepared and shared during this month tell the stories of generations, showcasing the richness of diverse Muslim cultures.

Different Cultural Approaches to Ramadan Preparation

As Ramadan approaches, every country has its own way of preparing for the holy month. In some regions, markets fill with special ingredients, while in others, families spend days preparing homemade treats that will last throughout the month.

Middle Eastern countries often prepare traditional dried fruits, nuts, and special drinks like qamar al-din (apricot juice) ahead of time.

In Southeast Asia, homes and mosques are decorated, and communities organize special food-sharing events.

In parts of Africa, large communal iftar gatherings are held, where neighbors cook and share meals together.

These pre-Ramadan preparations highlight how food is not just about eating but also about fostering a sense of belonging and unity.

Special Foods and Traditions Exclusive to Ramadan

While every culture has its special food, Ramadan brings out special dishes that are often prepared only during this time of the year. These meals are not just about flavor; they carry deep historical and cultural significance, passed down through generations.

Yemen: Ramadan in Yemen is incomplete without shafout, a unique dish made of lahoh (fermented bread) soaked in a spiced yogurt sauce. Another staple is sambosa, crispy triangular pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, which have become a Ramadan favorite across many countries.

Indonesia: Iftar in Indonesia often begins with kolak, a sweet coconut milk-based dessert with bananas or sweet potatoes.

Turkey: A special Ramadan bread called pide is prepared, often served warm with soup or meat dishes.

Morocco: Harira, a hearty tomato and lentil soup, is a Ramadan staple, often accompanied by chebakia, a flower-shaped sesame cookie.

Despite the variety, these dishes all share something in common: they bring families together and make Ramadan even more special.

Food as a Link to Heritage and Identity

Ramadan cuisine is more than just food—it is a powerful connection to cultural roots. Traditional cooking methods, unique spices, and regional ingredients showcase the heritage of different communities. Some dishes have been passed down for centuries, preserving the flavors of the past.

For many, the act of preparing and sharing Ramadan meals is a way to bring families together and maintain cultural traditions, especially for those living far from home.  Muslims recreate the tastes of their homeland, keeping their identity alive through food.

Ramadan is more than just fasting; it is a celebration of cultural richness. The unique dishes prepared during this holy month reflect the diversity of Muslim communities worldwide while reinforcing the shared values of togetherness and generosity. Through food, traditions are preserved, and connections are strengthened, making Ramadan a truly special time of the year.

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

Meigitaria Sanita
,

Interpersonal Communication Challenges While Fasting

Interpersonal Communication Challenges While Fasting

Communication is a fundamental aspect of human interaction that shapes our relationships with others and ourselves. However, during Ramadan, fasting affects both interpersonal communication (the way we interact with others) and intrapersonal communication (our inner dialogue) in unique ways. Ramadan Is a sacred month that fosters spiritual growth, yet It also introduces challenges in maintaining effective communication due to changes In physical and mental states. According to Communication Accommodation Theory (Giles & Coupland, 1991), individuals adjust their communication” styles based on their psychological and physiological conditions. Understanding these differences and finding ways to navigate them can help ensure smoother and more meaningful interactions throughout Ramadan.

Interpersonal Communication During Ramadan vs. Other Months

Interpersonal communication—our interactions with others—is deeply affected by fasting. Throughout the rest of the year, people communicate without significant physical restrictions. However, during Ramadan, fasting alters our energy levels, emotions, and patience, which can influence the way we interact.

  1. Irritability and Short Temper

Outside of Ramadan, people often rely on food and drinks to regulate their mood, making it easier to manage stress and frustration. During Ramadan, hunger and dehydration can make individuals more prone to irritability, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts in daily conversations. According to “Islamic Fasting and Health” by WikiIslam, fasting can cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels, resulting in temporary cognitive impairment, mood swings, and decreased energy levels. These physiological effects explain why individuals might struggle with patience, attentiveness, or effective communication while fasting.

Solution: Practicing patience, using gentle speech, and reminding ourselves of the spiritual purpose of fasting can help maintain positive interactions.

  1. Workplace and Academic Communication

In normal circumstances, productivity and engagement in meetings or discussions are consistent. While fasting, energy levels may drop, especially in the afternoon, leading to reduced focus, miscommunication, or difficulty expressing thoughts clearly.

Solution: Scheduling important discussions earlier in the day when energy is higher and being understanding towards colleagues who are fasting can create a more supportive environment.

Intrapersonal Communication: The Inner Dialogue in Ramadan vs. Other Months

Communication isn’t just about talking to others—it’s also about how we communicate with ourselves. Intrapersonal communication shapes our thoughts, emotions, and actions, and Ramadan brings a shift in this inner dialogue.

  1. Balancing Physical and Mental Well-Being

On normal days, physical comfort often dictates mental state—feeling energized after eating or being irritable when hungry. In Ramadan, fasting teaches self-control, requiring individuals to regulate their thoughts and emotions despite physical hunger or tiredness.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever does not give up false speech and evil actions, Allah is not in need of his leaving his food and drink.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 1903)

Solution: Recognizing that emotions are temporary and focusing on spiritual goals rather than physical discomfort can strengthen self-discipline.

  1. Increased Self-Reflection

Outside of Ramadan, people often engage in self-talk that revolves around daily responsibilities, stress, and future plans.In Ramadan, there is a stronger focus on self-reflection, spirituality, and personal growth, as emphasized in the Qur’an:

 “you who have believed, fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may attain Taqwa (consciousness of Allah).” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183)

Solution: Using this time for positive self-talk, gratitude, and setting meaningful intentions can enhance both spiritual and emotional well-being.

Ramadan presents both unique challenges and opportunities for interpersonal and intrapersonal communication. While fasting may test our patience and energy, it also fosters deeper self-awareness and encourages stronger, more meaningful connections with others. By practicing patience, adjusting our communication styles, and being mindful of our inner dialogue, we can navigate conversations more effectively.

As we embrace the essence of Ramadan, let’s make a conscious effort to communicate with kindness, understanding, and self-awareness. Whether engaging in conversations with others or reflecting within our own minds, effective communication will not only make fasting easier but also enhance the true spirit of this sacred month.

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

Meigitaria Sanita
,

Experiencing Ramadan in Indonesia: A Unique and Heartwarming Journey

This was the first Ramadan for Thrya, an IPC student. It was a different experience from where he lives in Yemen.

This was the first Ramadan for Thrya, an IPC student. It was a different experience from where she lives in Yemen.

Ramadan away from home can be a bittersweet experience, but there is something truly special about observing it in Indonesia. While it may be different from what I was used to back home, the warmth and welcoming atmosphere of Ramadan around campus make it a memorable experience. The spirit of togetherness, the sense of community, and the shared excitement for iftar and Tarawih prayers create a unique vibe that makes this Ramadan stand out.

A Ramadan Unlike Any Other

This Ramadan is unlike any I have experienced before. For the first time, I find myself balancing university classes, assignments, and cooking meals, all while trying to maintain the spiritual essence of the holy month. Back home, Ramadan felt easier with family support—meals were prepared, and daily schedules were adjusted to accommodate fasting. However, as an international student, I now have to manage my time efficiently to ensure I don’t miss out on the blessings of this month. Finding time for Tarawih prayer after long, busy days is challenging, but it’s a commitment that strengthens my faith and discipline.

The Beauty of Iftar Gatherings

One of the things I love the most about Ramadan in Indonesia is the way people come together for iftar. Many students, like me, are away from their families, yet they make an effort to recreate the warmth of home by breaking their fast with friends. Whether it’s in dormitories, rented rooms, or university spaces, the joy of sharing meals brings comfort and a sense of belonging. The university also organizes special Ramadan activities, fostering a strong community spirit. Seeing people from different backgrounds unite in the spirit of Ramadan is truly heartwarming.

Lessons Learned from Ramadan in Indonesia

Beyond the spiritual significance, the first days of  Ramadan in Indonesia has been a learning experience. It has taught me:

  1. Independence and Time Management – Managing fasting, studies, and personal responsibilities requires discipline and organization.
  2. The Importance of Community – Even when far from home, the kindness and generosity of people around can make Ramadan fulfilling.
  3. Patience and Gratitude – Witnessing the way Indonesians celebrate Ramadan with simplicity and devotion has deepened my appreciation for the essence of this month.

Despite the differences, I feel this  Ramadan in Indonesia is going to be an enriching and unforgettable experience. The warmth of the people, the beauty of shared iftar moments, and the spiritual growth I have seen makes it truly special. While I may miss home, I have found a new kind of family here, and that is the essence of Ramadan—unity, gratitude, and faith.

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

Meigitaria Sanita
,

The Importance of Fact-Checking in Digital Journalism

The Importance of Fact-Checking in Digital Journalism

Fact-checking is crucial in digital journalism as it ensures the accuracy, reliability, and authenticity of news. In an era of rapid information distribution, misinformation can spread quickly, shaping public opinion and influencing global events. Journalists must employ evidence-based verification methods to provide clear and factual accounts of current affairs.

Fact-checking involves several key steps to ensure the credibility of information. Journalists and fact-checkers use various verification techniques, such as cross-referencing sources, analyzing data, and consulting experts. Additionally, digital tools like reverse image searches, geolocation, and AI-assisted verification help detect misinformation and confirm authenticity.

Methods of Fact-Checking in the Digital Age

In the digital landscape, misinformation can spread rapidly through social media and other online platforms. To combat this, journalists utilize various methods, including:

– Identifying Claims: Monitoring news, social media, and press releases for potential misinformation.

– Validation Techniques: Utilizing tools like TinEye for reverse image searches and Google Fact Check Explorer to verify sources.

– Collaborative Review: Engaging editors and fact-checkers to review and verify claims.

– Transparency in Reporting: Providing citations and clear explanations of the verification process to enhance credibility.

Fact-checking is essential for maintaining trust in journalism. By ensuring accurate reporting, it combats misinformation, enhances credibility, and holds public figures accountable. It also helps audiences make informed decisions based on reliable information rather than manipulated narratives.

Example: Fact-Checking in Conflict Reporting

A real-world example of fact-checking in journalism is the conflict in Yemen. When the war escalated in March 2015, various media outlets reported conflicting narratives. Fact-checkers played a vital role in verifying reports about airstrikes, humanitarian crises, and political developments. By cross-referencing information from multiple sources and using satellite imagery, fact-checkers provided a more accurate depiction of events, countering false or misleading claims.

The Future of Fact-Checking in Digital Journalism

As technology advances, fact-checking will continue to evolve. AI tools, blockchain verification, and improved data analysis methods will enhance the accuracy and efficiency of journalism. However, human expertise remains irreplaceable for interpreting context, ensuring ethical considerations, and maintaining accountability in reporting.

Fact-checking is an indispensable aspect of digital journalism, preventing misinformation and upholding the integrity of news reporting. As the media landscape evolves, journalists must remain vigilant, adapting to new challenges and technologies to ensure the public receives accurate and verified information.

Reference:

Dierickx, Laurence & Linden, Carl-Gustav. (2023). Journalism and Fact-Checking Technologies: Understanding User Needs

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

Meigitaria Sanita
,

The Fear of Missing Out: Why Gen Z Struggles with FOMO and How to Overcome It

The Fear of Missing Out: Why Gen Z Struggles with FOMO and How to Overcome It

Have you ever questioned the side effects of being part of this fast-paced generation? Growing up in a world dominated by social media and rapidly changing trends, it’s no surprise that FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) has become a defining issue for Gen Z, a generation often seen as materialistic and easily influenced. FOMO can be simply defined as the fear or anxiety of missing out on important events or life decisions that could have a positive impact. While this phenomenon can affect people of any age, Gen Z struggles with it the most due to the constant exposure to social media and the pressure to keep up with trends.

When exploring why FOMO is a common phenomenon among Gen Z, the main causes are social media influence and comparison culture. These factors make them feel as if they are constantly missing out, leading to dissatisfaction with their current lives. Moreover, FOMO can impact various aspects of life, including lifestyle choices and spending habits. A 2023 report by Credit Karma revealed that 40% of people—especially Gen Z—overspend and go into debt to keep up with their friends and escape the feeling of being left out.This cycle of comparison, spending, and dissatisfaction fuels a never-ending loop of FOMO, making it a defining struggle for Gen Z.

Beyond its effects on lifestyle and spending habits, FOMO also significantly impacts Gen Z’s productivity by making it difficult to focus on long-term goals. The constant urge to stay updated on social media or attend every event leads to frequent distractions, reducing their ability to concentrate on academic or professional tasks. Instead of dedicating time to self-improvement or career development, many prioritize short-term gratification, such as scrolling through social media or participating in unnecessary social activities. Additionally, FOMO can cause procrastination and indecisiveness, as individuals delay important tasks out of fear that they might miss out on something better. This cycle of distraction and hesitation not only lowers productivity but also increases stress and burnout.

I experienced this firsthand during my last year of high school. I felt pressured to take extra chemistry courses simply because most of my classmates were doing so. Even though I knew my school lessons were sufficient, I followed the crowd, which disrupted my study schedule and consumed more of my time. As a result, I became overwhelmed, and a month before my final exams, I was too burned out to study effectively. I had focused more on what others were doing instead of what actually worked for me.

Ultimately, FOMO doesn’t just affect emotions—it creates a pattern of inefficiency and lack of direction, making it harder for Gen Z to stay committed to personal and professional growth.

The best way to overcome FOMO is by practicing mindfulness and focusing on the present. Instead of constantly worrying about what others are doing, Gen Z should prioritize genuine experiences that bring them happiness, regardless of how they appear online. It is also essential to recognize that social media does not reflect reality—people only share their highlights, not their struggles. Understanding this can help shift the focus from comparison to self-acceptance. Additionally, setting healthy digital boundaries, such as limiting social media use or taking breaks, can reduce FOMO and improve overall well-being. By embracing self-awareness and personal fulfillment, Gen Z can break free from the cycle of constantly chasing what they think they’re missing out on.

FOMO has become a major issue for Gen Z due to social media and digital culture, fueling anxiety and dissatisfaction. However, by practicing mindfulness, setting digital boundaries, and prioritizing real-life experiences, it’s possible to break free from this cycle. Start small—take a social media break, practice gratitude, or focus on real connections. Embracing the present is the key to overcoming FOMO and living a more fulfilling life.

 

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

Meigitaria Sanita
,

Salah Satu Mahasiswa IPC Lakukan Pengabdian di Malaysia, Fokus Mengajar Anak-Anak Indonesia

KKN Internasional

Memiliki ambisi keliling ke berbagai negara, Nandita Faiza memilih bergabung International Program Communication (IPC) UII. Berbagai kesempatan terus dimanfaatkan, salah satunya program International Mobility dari FPSB.

Setelah mengikuti berbagai rangkaian seleksi, mahasiswa IPC Batch 2023 tersebut dinyatakan lolos dan melakoni pengabdian di Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia mulai 30 Januari hingga 28 Februari 2025.

“Salah satu alasan terbesar saya memilih Prodi Ilmu Komunikasi Program Internasional karena ingin memiliki kesempatan dan peluang besar untuk mengikuti international mobility, meskipun semua mahasiswa diberi kesempatan, tetapi mahasiswa program internasional biasanya akan mendapatkan kesempatan lebih besar,” jelasnya.

Pengabdian yang dilakukannya fokus dalam bidang pendidikan. Di Gombak, Nandita ditugaskan untuk mengajar anak-anak imigran dari Indonesia. Mulai mata pelajaran umum hingga keagamaan.

Kegiatan belajar mengajar dilakukan setiap pagi hingga sore, sementara setelah sholat Maghrib dan Isya dilanjutkan belajar Al-Qur’an. Menariknya International Mobility dari FPSB kali ini bisa dikonversi setara dengan Kuliah Kerja Nyata (KKN). Artinya, selain mengajar Nandita dan beberapa rekannya mesti melakukan beberapa program lain yang linier dengan latar belakang pendidikan masing-masing.

KKN Internasional

Kegiatan pengabdian KKN Internasional. Foto: Dok Pribadi

“Kami juga diberi kesempatan oleh pengelola sekolah untuk melaksanakan program kerja yang sudah kami rumuskan. Serunya, kami juga berkesempatan untuk explore Kuala Lumpur disetiap weekend atau hari libur yang kita miliki selama satu bulan berada di sana,” tambahnya.

Meski terlihat seru dan menyenangkan, nyatanya KKN di negeri orang memiliki berbagai tantangan. Nandita mengaku jika meski mengajar anak-anak Indonesia, kendala bahasa menjadi hal yang kerap dihadapi. Anak-anak tumbuh dan besar di Malaysia sehingga komunikasi dilakukan dengan bahasa Melayu.

“Meskipun kami mengajar anak-anak Indonesia, tetapi mereka besar dan tumbuh di Malaysia sehingga bahasa yang mereka gunakan sehari-hari merupakan bahasa melayu, tentunya kami juga harus dapat memahami apa yang mereka sampaikan,” ucap Nandita.

Kendala-kendala tersebut dianggapnya sebagai tantangan yang harus diselesaikan, berbekal skill komunikasi dan public speaking semua teratasi.

Banyak pelajaran berharga ia dapatkan, berbagai keterbatasan anak-anak imigran Indonesia di Malaysia membuka matanya untuk teguh dalam belajar.

“FPSB International Mobility 2025 program konversi KKN di Malaysia ini telah membuka banyak perspektif baru dan keteguhan belajar saya. Berdirinya sekolah belajar yang saya tempati ini merupakan hasil dari tekad warga Indonesia di Malaysia yang memperjuangkan hak ana-anak Indonesia untuk terus belajar menempuh pendidikan mereka yang berhasil memotivasi saya untuk terus berani melangkah dan belajar,” tandasnya.

Meigitaria Sanita
,

The Importance of Maintaining a Strong Company Reputation: Understanding Image, Identity, and Crisis Management

Brand

This article is a summary of the lecture material on IPC with the subject Introduction to Public Relations.


What comes to mind when you hear the name of your favorite brand or company? It could be a high-quality product, a catchy advertisement, or an impressive campaign. All of these are built on something essential—reputation. A company’s reputation is shaped by how well it maintains a positive relationship with the public, ensuring trust, stability, and long-term success. However, reputation doesn’t stand alone; it is built on two other key elements: image and identity. Together, these three components form the foundation of a well-known, successful brand.

One of the key factors that determine a company’s success is its reputation, which is built over time. From establishing its foundation to launching products and services, reputation plays a crucial role in attracting customers, investors, and public attention. It also enhances a company’s credibility and customer loyalty, making it stand out in a competitive market.

A great example is Wardah, a brand whose strong reputation has helped it gain consumer trust over competitors and made advertising new products more effective. Understanding the importance of reputation also highlights the risks of losing it. A damaged reputation can lead to two possible outcomes: either the company responds quickly through its PR team, managing the crisis and controlling media coverage, or it fails to recover, losing trust and credibility, which could ultimately lead to its downfall.

Understanding Image and Identity in Reputation

The other two key aspects of reputation are company image and company identity. Company image refers to how the public perceives a company based on what it presents to the world. This perception is influenced by factors such as media coverage, public relations efforts, and marketing strategies.

On the other hand, company identity is the foundation of a business—its core values, mission, and vision—which shape its decisions, branding, and long-term goals. The connection between these three elements is crucial: when a company’s image aligns with its identity, its reputation remains strong. Consistency across all three aspects ensures credibility and long-term success.

Rebuilding Reputation After a Crisis

The key step to saving a company from downfall is acknowledging mistakes and demonstrating a commitment to change. Reputation is built on trust and accountability, so taking responsibility and making the right improvements can help restore public confidence. If a company implements effective strategies and meaningful changes, rebuilding its reputation becomes easier. Additionally, engaging with customers and stakeholders is just as important as showing commitment.

A great example of this is Garuda Indonesia, the country’s national airline. After facing financial struggles and management scandals, the company focused on transparency, service improvements, and customer engagement to regain trust. By making significant operational changes and reinforcing its commitment to quality, Garuda Indonesia successfully improved its reputation over time.

A strong company reputation is essential for long-term success, as it builds trust, attracts customers, and ensures credibility in a competitive market. However, reputation is not built in isolation—it relies on the alignment of image and identity to create a consistent and reliable brand presence. When a crisis threatens a company’s reputation, a swift and transparent response can make the difference between recovery and failure. By acknowledging mistakes, implementing improvements, and staying true to their values, businesses can rebuild trust and even strengthen their reputation over time. Ultimately, maintaining a positive reputation requires continuous effort, ethical practices, and a commitment to delivering value to the public.

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

Meigitaria Sanita
,

The Transformative Power of Solo Travel: How It Enhances Communication and Personal Growth

Travel

Many people may feel apprehensive about traveling alone, but the benefits of solo travel are countless, making it truly worth considering.

Have you ever felt a deep urge to leave everything behind, pack a bag, and explore somewhere completely new? If so, you’re not alone. Traveling is one of the few things that almost everyone loves—it’s exciting, refreshing, and full of new experiences. But beyond the excitement, travel, especially solo travel, shapes us in ways we rarely consider. If we look at it through the lens of communication, we gain a broader perspective on how it influences both our personal growth and social interactions.

Stepping Out of Comfort Zones: How Solo Travel Improves Communication Skills

One of the most significant aspects of personal growth that solo travelers experience is the improvement of their communication skills. Traveling alone pushes them out of their comfort zones, requiring them to ask for directions, navigate language barriers, and engage more with locals. While these actions may seem simple, they play a crucial role in shaping and enhancing their interpersonal skills. Over time, solo travelers become more confident and resilient, which prepares them for future experiences and challenges.

Building Connections: How Solo Travel Fosters Openness and Cultural Respect

One of the greatest benefits of solo traveling is the opportunity to build connections and become more open to different cultures. Traveling alone encourages travelers to engage more with others, leading to meaningful interactions that often develop into deep connections. These experiences serve as turning points, showing how strong bonds can form with people from entirely different cultures, ethnicities, and backgrounds. What may start as a simple conversation can evolve into a lasting friendship, enriching the traveler’s perspective. Through these interactions, solo travelers not only become more open-minded but also develop a deeper respect for cultural diversity, making their journey even more transformative.

Bringing the Journey Home: How Solo Travel Enhances Conversations and Relationships

Beyond personal growth and deep interactions, solo traveling allows individuals to collect meaningful experiences and valuable conversations that enrich their relationships with loved ones and their surroundings. When travelers return home, they bring back stories and new perspectives that make them more engaging storytellers, attentive listeners, and thoughtful conversationalists. These experiences not only shape their worldview but also deepen their connections with others, as they share the lessons and insights gained from their journey.

Solo travel is more than just an adventure; it is a journey of personal transformation. By stepping out of their comfort zones, solo travelers develop stronger communication skills, forge meaningful connections, and gain a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity. The experiences they collect along the way shape not only their perspective but also their interactions with others, making them more open, confident, and engaged individuals. Whether it’s through conversations with strangers or sharing stories with loved ones back home, solo travel leaves a lasting impact that extends far beyond the trip itself.

 

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

Meigitaria Sanita
,

The Impact of AI on Everyday Life

AI

Will AI eventually exceed its creator’s logic and reshape humanity’s future? In recent years, artificial intelligence has become an important part of daily life, influencing everything from morning routines to complex professional tasks.

As it continues to develop, AI enhances efficiency, transforms industries, and raises ethical questions about its societal roles. To fully understand Al’s impact, it requires us to explore and examine its presence in everyday life, its influence on professional fields, and the ethical dilemmas it presents, providing a comprehensive framework to assess both its promises and challenges.

AI is becoming a silent but essential force that affects every aspect of our lives and shapes the way we engage with the outside world. AI-powered devices like smart assistants, customized alarms, and specially tailored news feeds influence our daily routines from the time we wake up. While navigation systems optimize routes to save time and money, platforms such as Netflix and Spotify use complex algorithms to suggest entertainment based on our interests. These AI-powered technologies improve convenience and are prime examples of the effectiveness and diversity that were promised by AI, but as it dominates our daily lives, we are forced to think about how technology may affect human life. An emerging concern is AI-Induced Cognitive Atrophy (AICICA), which suggests that overreliance on AI-powered systems. It could lead to cognitive decline, particularly in skills such as problem-solving and decision-making. Just as problematic internet use (PIU) has been linked to reduced cognitive engagement, AICICA raises the possibility that excessive dependence on AI may weaken critical thinking abilities.

When AI automates tasks that require analysis, judgment, and creativity, individuals may become less inclined to engage deeply with information or think independently. (From tools to threats: a reflection on the impact of artificial intelligence chatbots on cognitive health, 2024)

Although it saves us from repetitive duties, will it keep running the risk of weakening critical skills like flexibility and decision-making? It would change if we could control AI’s potential while maintaining human creativity and autonomy that drive significant changes by comprehending and controlling our reliance on it.

AI is changing various sectors by doing routine operations and analyzing data within a short time with a high level of accuracy. AI-powered solutions are already helping doctors with patient diagnosis, predicting the outcome of a treatment, and some surgeries. The same way, AI is improving investment decisions in the financial sector by identifying fraud and offering analytical recommendations. Moreover, AI platforms are changing the education system by providing individual learning paths for every student and improving the teaching process. However, just like these improvements boost creativity and productivity, they come with a set of problems.

AI is raising more concerns about unemployment since its automation is taking over roles in customer service, manufacturing, and even creative industries. Despite these concerns, AI should not be seen as a complete replacement for human workers but rather as a tool to enhance human capabilities. As experts suggest, the key lies in upskilling existing employees to integrate AI effectively into the workforce rather than replacing them entirely. According to industry leaders, AI can work alongside humans to improve efficiency and innovation, provided there is a balance between AI’s automation and human emotional intelligence, something AI alone cannot replicate. (curry, 2023)

As AI develops, there are ethical issues that need to be discussed. At the top of the list is the privacy issue since AI systems gather and analyze users’ data. It is a concern for many users who are not always aware of how their information is being used or handled, which raises questions about their consent. Furthermore, existing AI algorithms contain biases that can result in unfair treatment of individuals and can lead to discriminatory outcomes in hiring, lending, and law enforcement. This is another pressing concern: accountability. When AI systems fail, as in an autonomous vehicle or in a financial prediction, what then? Who is responsible: the developer, the user, or the AI? These concerns can only be addressed by clear ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks. With proactive governance, we can ensure that AI development aligns with our societal values, fostering trust and fairness in its implications.

Artificial intelligence is undeniably transforming every aspect of our lives, from the way we manage daily tasks to its real-life applications in professional fields. However, its impact is not without challenges, particularly in the ethical realm. By embracing its benefits while addressing its risks, we can shape AI into a tool that enhances, rather than undermines, human progress. The future of AI depends on our ability to navigate its complexities responsibly, ensuring it serves humanity’s best interests while preserving the values that define us.

 

Reference:

curry, R. (2023, August 10). How A.I. can help create jobs for humans, not just automate them. Retrieved from Technology Executive Council: https://www.cnbc.com/2023/08/10/how-ai-can-help-create-jobs-for-humans-not-just-automate-them.html

From tools to threats: a reflection on the impact of artificial-intelligence chatbots on cognitive health. (2024, April 2). Retrieved from national lubrary of medicine : https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11020077/

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

Meigitaria Sanita
,

Tiga Kali Berturut-turut Mahasiswa IPC Jadi Lulusan Terbaik, IPK Nyaris Sempurna!

Tiga Kali Berturut-turut Mahasiswa IPC Jadi Lulusan Terbaik, IPK Nyaris Sempurna!

Tiga kali berturut-turut mahasiswa dari Ilmu Komunikasi UII khususnya international program (IPC) berhasil menjadi lulusan terbaik di tingkat fakultas (FPSB).

Kali ini giliran Gelegar Carnellian Talenta, S.I.Kom alumni angkatan 2020. Ia menyusul dua teman angkatannya yang lebih dulu lulus yakni Arsila Khairunnisa, S.I.Kom dan Fikri Haikal Ramadhan, S.I.Kom. Selengkapnya: https://communication.uii.ac.id/wisudawan-terbaik-hingga-predikat-summa-cumlaude-dari-prodi-ilmu-komunikasi-uii/

Pembekalan wisudawan FPSB pada 21 Januari 2024 menjadi momen terbaik bagi Gelegar. Ia dinyatakan sebagai lulusan terbaik dengan raihan IPK 3,94.

Menurutnya menjalani proses akademik di Prodi Ilmu Komunikasi UII memberikan banyak pengalaman menarik. Selain Ilmu Komunikasi yang aplikatif juga nilai-nilai Islam untuk pedoman hidup.

“Saya merasa sangat bersyukur dan bangga dapat menyelesaikan studi di jurusan Ilmu Komunikasi Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII). Perjalanan akademik di UII telah menjadi pengalaman yang luar biasa, tidak hanya dalam membekali saya dengan ilmu komunikasi yang relevan dan aplikatif, tetapi juga dalam menanamkan nilai-nilai keislaman yang menjadi pedoman dalam kehidupan,” ujarnya.

Selama kurang lebih empat tahun berbagai petualangan telah dilaluinya. Sebagai mahasiswa IPC, berbagai program internasional telah diikutinya. Salah satunya adalah program exchange di Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) selama satu semester menjelang akhir studinya.

“Dengan fasilitas dan beberapa program yang telah di–provide oleh prodi, saya mendapatkan pengalaman yang sangat berharga dalam memperluas wawasan saya. Saya juga mendapatkan kesempatan untuk melakukan pergantian mahasiswa internasional di Universiti Utara Malaysia,” ungkap Gelegar.

Ia berharap dari pembelajaran yang interaktif, serta suasana akademik yang inklusif di Prodi Ilmu Komunikasi UII dapat menciptakan perubahan positif di masyarakat melalui peran para alumni

“Saya ingin mengucapkan terima kasih kepada seluruh dosen, staf, dan teman-teman yang telah memberikan dukungan dan inspirasi sepanjang perjalanan ini. Semoga ilmu yang kita peroleh menjadi bekal yang bermanfaat untuk membangun masa depan yang lebih baik. Saya bangga menjadi bagian dari keluarga besar Ilmu Komunikasi UII dan siap memberikan kontribusi terbaik di bidang yang saya tekuni,” tandasnya.