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P2A ICE CREAM COCONUT 2026: Exploring Kampung Warna-Warni to a Photography Competition in Kuala Perlis

P2A ICE CREAM COCONUT 2026: Exploring Kampung Warna-Warni to a Photography Competition in Kuala Perlis

On the fourth day of the P2A ICE CREAM COCONUT 2026 program—specifically on August 11—delegates from three countries visited Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM). Driven by a spirit of intercultural communication and creative exploration, this activity was designed to build connections, deepen cultural understanding, and hone visual storytelling skills through a photography competition.

It began with a warm Welcoming Session at SCIMPA UUM, allowing the delegates to get to know one another and become acquainted. They also toured the UUM Guest Pavilion, a historical gallery tracing the university’s founding—an institution that has produced many scholars and leaders in Malaysia.

After visiting UUM, the delegates from IPC UII, SDU, and SCIMPA UUM set off for Kampung Warna-Warni in Kuala Perlis. This is a traditional fishing village that was transformed into a colorful tourist destination in 2020, an initiative launched by the Crown Prince of Perlis. The delegates wandered through narrow alleys lined with murals, engaged in conversations with residents, and experienced community-based tourism firsthand—witnessing how grassroots creativity can tangibly improve the community’s standard of living.

The cultural journey continued to the Al-Hussain Mosque, a magnificent floating mosque on the coast of Kuala Perlis. Its architecture, jutting out into the sea, created a serene and contemplative backdrop, concluding the cultural exploration with a profound impression of harmony and diversity.

The main event of the day was a photography competition, chaired by Dr. Mohamad Amir Bin Abu Seman from SCIMPA UUM, who explained that the competition aimed to strengthen intercultural communication.

“It was to strengthen intercultural communication and to challenge them to bond while creatively documenting Kuala Lumpur’s landscape,” he said.

The results of the photography competition were phenomenal. The students were highly engaged, with several achieving perfect 15-point scores, reflecting strong thematic relevance and visual quality across all categories.

“Specifically, the IPC students demonstrated exceptional visual storytelling. They successfully applied their background in communication studies,” he added.

The winner of the competition was Muhammad Yusuf Singgih from IPC UII, who presented the theme “In Transit.” He said that this experience not only provided direct observation but also honed his visual storytelling skills.

"In Transit" Captured by Muhammad Yusuf Singgih from IPC UII

“In Transit” Captured by Muhammad Yusuf Singgih from IPC UII

“My goal was to explore Kuala Lumpur through visual storytelling while developing creativity and observation skills in communicating the character of a city through photography,” he explained.

“The photography challenge taught me to see Kuala Lumpur beyond its landmarks. Through its green spaces, streets, cultural sites, public transportation, and local food, I learned how photography can capture the identity, diversity, and everyday life of the city. I also learned to be more observant and intentional when taking photos because every composition, angle, subject, and moment can tell a different story about a place,” he emphasized.

This program is more than just a competition or a tour. It is a living laboratory for students to learn about diversity, build empathy, and hone their visual sensitivity. From the alleys of Kampung Warna-Warni to the Al-Hussain Mosque, every corner of the journey holds a lesson on how art, culture, and communication serve as bridges between people. The delegates returned home with stories, friendships, and a new understanding of a world rich in color and meaning.

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P2A ICE CREAM COCONUT 2026: Sustainable CSR by the Younger Generation at Hat Chao Mai

P2A ICE CREAM COCONUT 2026: Sustainable CSR by the Younger Generation at Hat Chao Mai

This edition of Passage to ASEAN (P2A) is focused on sustainability; one of the programs carried out is a hands-on initiative in the coastal area of Hat Chao Mai National Park, Trang Province, Thailand. The initiative, held on August 15, 2026, brought together dozens of delegates from IPC UII, SCIMPA UUM, and SDU.

Through this beach cleanup CSR initiative, the delegates not only collected coastal trash but were also guided to understand the local ecological reality, where they observed firsthand the challenges posed by marine debris to the sustainability of coastal ecosystems within the national park. Furthermore, the event served as a medium for sustainable learning through concrete activities.

One of the facilitators accompanying the delegates from the three countries was Billy, a former biologist and scientist at the Trang Marine National Park in Thailand. He has researched the region’s marine ecosystems, including reef sharks, dugongs, and seagrass beds, which serve as vital habitats.

P2A ICE CREAM COCONUT 2026: Sustainable CSR by the Younger Generation at Hat Chao Mai

P2A ICE CREAM COCONUT 2026: Sustainable CSR by the Younger Generation at Hat Chao Mai

Billy shared fundamental insights about nature, humans, and the environment. He noted that nature does not need humans, but humans need nature.

“You need to know that, actually, the environment doesn’t really need humans, but the opposite is true—humans need it to benefit us. So, we need to understand what we’re using and how we’re living. We must understand the costs and consequences, such as microplastics, which can later lead to many diseases for humans,” explained Billy.

This CSR initiative is not merely a social activity but serves as an open-air laboratory for the delegates to observe firsthand. Key points to highlight include the condition of the coastal ecosystem—including plastic waste that threatens marine life—the cycle of land-based waste that ultimately ends up in the ocean, and, finally, the role of humans as part of the solution, not merely as consumers of natural resources.

This beach cleanup serves as a symbol that sustainability doesn’t have to start with grand policies, but rather with simple actions: picking up trash, sorting it, and understanding that every piece of plastic collected is a small step toward maintaining the balance of nature.

Hakimi, one of the delegates from UUM, noted that this CSR initiative is a concrete action that allows him to contribute to sustainability.

“I found the beach cleanup program very beneficial and meaningful. It gave me the opportunity to contribute to protecting our environment while learning the importance of taking responsibility for keeping our surroundings clean. What made the program even more meaningful was that we worked together regardless of our different races and cultures, united by the same responsibility to care for our environment,” said Hakimi.

Meanwhile, Aliya Salsabila, a delegate from IPC UII, shared a deeply personal message. She noted that what we do today shapes the future.

“Participating in the beach cleanup CSR program made me realize that nature isn’t something we can continue to take for granted. Through something as simple as picking up trash, I’ve come to understand that what we do today will become part of the environmental conditions we leave behind for future generations,” she said.

Meanwhile, Billy, who has worked in the field of conservation for many years, noted that programs like this are urgent for young people. They provide a valuable space to meet, discuss, and collaborate—especially regarding the realities of the environment and sustainability, as well as the roles we should play.

“This is the best program I’ve ever heard of, because in this current generation, people are starting to connect online but have forgotten the importance of face-to-face communication and storytelling. And since we’re all part of ASEAN and are neighbors, I think this is a great initiative because it allows us to connect with one another,” he added.

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IPC Student Wins Second Place in the National Musabaqah Syarhil Qur’an Competition

IPC Student Wins Second Place in the National Musabaqah Syarhil Qur’an Competition

Kelvin Alviana Setiawan, a student on the International Communication Programme (IPC) at the Islamic University of Indonesia (UII), secured second place in the Musabaqah Syarhil Qur’an (MSQ) competition at the Qur’anic Arts Festival organised by UPTQ UNISBA, Bandung, on 1–2 June 2026.

MSQ has been an integral part of Kelvin’s life; he has been dedicated to this field since primary school. He continued to develop his interest in MSQ through regular practice, and by the time he reached secondary school, he had the courage to enter various national-level competitions.

This journey has served as a foundation for him to remain consistent in the art of reciting the Qur’an and understanding its meaning. Upon entering university, he decided to join the TQFI student club under the Directorate of Student Development, which focuses on developing students’ interests and talents in the fields of MTQ and Islamic arts.

Amidst the demands of his academic life on campus, Kelvin also remained active in the organisation to develop his skills. Nevertheless, he learnt a great deal and managed to balance his time effectively, enabling him to take part in competitions.

“I divided my time between lectures, practice sessions and other organisational activities by setting priorities and drawing up a schedule from the outset, so that no activities clashed,” he said.

This competition proved to be a different experience; rather than simply being a participant, he also acted as a mentor and was responsible for organising the event, from which he naturally learnt a great deal.

From this experience, Kelvin gained various insights, ranging from problem-solving skills and risk management to handling administrative matters with the university. This experience has further enriched his personal development outside the lecture hall.

Drawing on his experience, Kelvin shared a message with all students: never give up and always nurture your interests and talents.

“My message is: never stop learning and developing the interests and talents within you, particularly in the field of religion. Make the most of every opportunity to gain knowledge, stay enthusiastic, and remain consistent throughout the process. With good intentions and sincere effort, the knowledge we possess will become a valuable asset for both ourselves and others,” he emphasised.

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Joint Book Workshop by the Department of Communications and SCIMPA UUM

Joint Book Workshop by the Department of Communications and SCIMPA UUM

The eight-year collaboration between the Department of Communications at Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII) and the School of Creative Industry Management and Performing Arts (SCIMPA) at Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) has opened up a wide range of opportunities.

On 8 July 2026, a “Joint Book Workshop” was held at the Department of Communications building at UII. This meeting combined the academic rigour and creative elements of the two institutions from Indonesia and Malaysia. The session featured in-depth discussions exploring the most relevant possibilities, ranging from developing initial concepts through to the final book production plan.

The aim of this workshop was to clearly outline the publication process arising from international mobility activities, with a focus on the intersection between Communication Studies and Performing Arts. Some of the processes highlighted in the discussion included subject development, publication formats, audience engagement, and book production.

The Head of the Department of Communications at UII, Dr Zaki Habibi, emphasised the value of this workshop, describing it as a reflection and a contribution that makes a real impact.

“This workshop is not the final destination; its true value is reflected when participants continue to contribute through research, creative works and impactful publications. We move from workshop to workshop, focusing on conflict and transformation, and creative management. It is not just about learning a skill; it is about contributing to a body of knowledge that transforms conflicts and creates features that matter to the community,” he said in his opening remarks at the workshop.

One of the highlights of this session was the approach to nurturing relationships between institutions, with senior lecturers revealing the strategies behind sustainable collaboration. Starting with the international mobility programme, a strong foundation was found to lie in the consistent maintenance of trust, clear communication, and the integration of dynamic creative perspectives.

UUM senior lecturer Mohammad Amir Bin Abu Seman, who initiated the partnership from the outset, noted that academic mobility is merely the starting point; the real success lies in building meaningful and impactful collaboration. It is hoped that this collaborative book will also reveal the keys to the sustained success of the two institutions.

“Academic mobility is only the starting point. The real success lies in building sustainable collaboration that transcends borders and leads to meaningful publications with lasting impact. We have maintained programmes such as SCIMPA and UII for eight years, not by focusing on the business side of things, but by focusing on the relationship. The secret lies in openly sharing our approach so that others can replicate it, thereby establishing a network that transcends individual institutions,” he added.

The Dean of SCIMPA, Dr Ahmad Hisham Bin Zainal Abidin, also noted that whilst this workshop highlights diversity, the hope is that the resulting book will capture the voices of various stakeholders, ranging from students involved in international mobility, supervising lecturers, and staff from both countries.

“Our experience is not limited to just Indonesia and Malaysia. We must also include international students and staff from other countries to enrich our perspective. This workshop serves as a platform to capture these diverse voices. We aim to produce a more casual, coffee-table-style publication that documents these exchanges, using photos and archives not just for record-keeping, but also as a form of soft promotion for our collaborative spirit,” he concluded.

Following the discussion, workshop participants were divided into four teams, each discussing and deciding on a topic for an article to be developed collaboratively. The discussion concluded with presentations. It is hoped that this book will soon be finalised and published so that it can have an impact on its audience.

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International Seminar: Navigating the (Uncertain) Future ‘How Digital Media Helps Humanity Address Environmental Challenges’

International Seminar: Navigating the (Uncertain) Future: How Digital Media Helps Humanity Address Environmental Challenges

The Department of Communications at Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII) is collaborating with the School of Creative Industry Management and Performing Arts (SCIMPA) at Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) to organise an international seminar on the theme “Navigating the (Uncertain) Future: How Digital Media Helps Humanity Address Environmental Challenges” on 9 July 2026 on the 3rd floor of the Soekiman Wirdjosandjojo Building at UII.

This seminar serves as a forum bringing together academics and students to explore how digital media can foster environmental awareness, inspire collective action, and respond to the complex challenges of the global climate crisis.

This event also marks the eighth year of the ongoing collaboration between the Department of Communications at UII and SCIMPA at UUM. It is hoped that, in addition to academic exchange, this collaboration will also strengthen research, student mobility, and international engagement for both parties.

The two speakers in this session were Iwan Awaluddin Yusuf, Ph.D, from the Department of Communications at UII, who presented a paper entitled “Navigating an Uncertain Future, From Information to Collective Action: Digital Media Activism for Environmental Sustainability in Indonesia”. In his presentation, he explained that environmental issues are not merely ecological challenges but also communication challenges. Using case studies from the Pandawara Group and Mongabay Indonesia, he demonstrated how digital media can transform information into collective action by combining narrative, public participation, and data journalism. He emphasised that public awareness, coupled with sustained collaboration, is key to achieving meaningful environmental change.

The second presentation was delivered by Dr Syamsul Hirdi Bin Muhid from SCIMPA UUM, entitled “The Dynamics of Creative Destruction: Navigating Environmental Crises in the Malaysian Entertainment Industry from an Economic Perspective”. His study examined the environmental implications of the transition in the entertainment industry (from physical media to digital streaming platforms). Although digitalisation reduces reliance on physical materials, it turns out that digital streaming actually increases energy consumption through data centres and digital infrastructure. He urged relevant policymakers, industry practitioners, and academics to develop innovations that integrate technology and renewable energy.

The international seminar was attended by the Dean of the Faculty of Social and Cultural Sciences at UII, Irawan Jati, Ph.D., who emphasised that the seminar’s theme addresses one of the most pressing issues in today’s global context.

“This topic is highly relevant to today’s global challenges. Climate change reminds us that we are all vulnerable, and digital media has become an important platform for transforming environmental knowledge into collective action,” he said.

He also noted that the collaboration between the two institutions would strengthen their commitment and create opportunities for broader interdisciplinary cooperation.

Meanwhile, the Head of the Department of Communications at UII stated that, in the eighth year of this collaboration, the hope is to combine research strengths and disseminate information to the public in order to tackle contemporary issues.

“This year marks our eighth year of collaboration with Universiti Utara Malaysia. Although new global challenges continue to emerge, our objective remains the same: to combine our strengths in research and public dissemination to address contemporary issues,” he explained.

He also highlighted the importance of equipping the younger generation to cope with global uncertainty.

“Anxiety has become one of the defining challenges for Generation Z. Political uncertainty, global conflicts and climate change continue to shape their lives. Rather than asking who created these problems, we should focus on becoming part of the solution,” he added.

A representative of the Dean of SCIMPA at UUM, Dr Ahmad Hisham Bin Zainal Abidin, expressed his appreciation for the ongoing partnership. “We highly value the friendship that has grown through this partnership. Beyond student mobility, our collaboration continues to strengthen research, academic exchange and international engagement between our institutions,” he said.

He added that the seminar illustrates how international partnerships can generate meaningful academic impact.

“Today’s seminar demonstrates how international partnerships create meaningful opportunities for our institutions. By working together, we can move towards the future with greater confidence,” he emphasised.

The seminar concluded with an interactive discussion on the role of communication, digital media, and international collaboration in addressing environmental challenges. Building on seven years of partnership, UII and UUM reaffirmed their commitment to expanding collaborative initiatives in education, research, and academic mobility, whilst preparing students to contribute to sustainable development in an increasingly interconnected world.

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Inspiring Story of Nadhirah, an IPC Student Who Won Second Place in the National English Debate Competition

Inspiring Story of Nadhirah, an IPC Student Who Won Second Place in the National English Debate Competition

Anyone can experience failure, but fighting back may require effort and strong conviction. Nadhirah Parsa Wijaya, a student of the International Programme in Communication (IPC) at the Universitas Islam Indonesia, has successfully proven this. The IPC student from the 2025 cohort successfully secured second place in the national English debate competition on 15 May 2026 at UIN Sunan Gunung Djati.

This year’s English Debate Annual Saeed National Competition marked her first experience competing at the national level previously, Nadhirah admitted she had only taken part in school-level competitions. In fact, Nadhirah had some relevant experience, having previously served as an English tutor at her former secondary school.

Armed with that experience, Nadhirah was determined to set a target: “One of my goals during university is to join an English debate competition,” she said.

Unfortunately, things did not go smoothly. She initially faced rejection when applying to join one of the university’s English debate clubs. Undeterred, she employed various strategies. One of these was collaborating with other peers.

“So I invited my friends whom I thought would make suitable debate partners: Naufal Rafi Pratama (Law) and Aisya Nurlaily (Islamic Economics). Alhamdulillah, despite our limited practice time and lack of a coach, we managed to achieve what we’d dreamed of in this debate competition,” she added.

Nadhirah explained that several strategies were key to the team’s success: besides team cohesion and fluent English, critical thinking, debating techniques, and sufficient literacy—particularly regarding the motion—were crucial.

Conflicting lecture timetables also posed a challenge. However, they managed to organise their schedules carefully to make time for joint practice. They even conducted virtual practice sessions.

“Actually, I was very nervous about taking part in this competition because it was my first experience at a national level,” she said again.

“By applying the debating skills I’d learnt and the critical thinking material I’d gained from the bridging programme classes, I felt motivated to give this competition a go. Although I was nervous at first, taking part has broadened my horizons even further,” she concluded.

That is the inspiring story of Nadhirah, an IPC student from the 2025 cohort who succeeded and rose from her failures. Not giving up easily and daring to seize opportunities will lead to success.

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How Technology Has Affected Communication

How Technology Has Affected Communication

Communication today happens faster and more often than ever before. People can connect across cities, countries, and continents almost instantly. Devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops have become part of daily life, changing how we interact, share information, and access services. Moreover, the first mobile networks, called 1G, only allowed basic voice calls. Then 2G introduced digital signals and text messaging, improving coverage and call quality. 3G brought mobile internet and video services, allowing people to send and receive data on the go. 4G increased speed further, supporting high-quality video streaming, online gaming, and other demanding applications. The latest generation, 5G, offers ultra-fast data transfer, very low delays, and the ability to connect millions of devices at once. This includes not only phones but also machines and sensors, forming the Internet of Things (IoT). Each step has allowed communication to become faster, more reliable, and capable of handling larger amounts of data.

Effects on Human Communication

These technological advances have transformed how people interact. First, connectivity has expanded enormously. People can stay in touch anytime and anywhere through messaging apps, video calls, and social media. Distance is no longer a barrier, and collaboration can happen across borders instantly. Second, speed and efficiency have improved. High-speed networks allow real-time communication and data transfer.

Applications like online learning and smart transportation rely on these networks to function effectively. Machines also communicate with each other, collecting and sending information for services like smart cities, healthcare monitoring, and industrial automation. Third, the experience of communication has become more personalized and interactive. Users can access multimedia content, use virtual assistants, and interact with AI-driven applications. Features like instant video, cloud-based data access, and immersive apps make communication not only faster but also richer and more engaging.

Challenges and Considerations

While technology has greatly improved communication, it comes with challenges. Networks need to handle massive amounts of data and connections, which can strain infrastructure. Also, security and privacy are critical as more personal and sensitive information is shared online. There is also the risk of unequal access, as not everyone can afford or reach the latest technologies, which can create a digital divide. Ensuring fair and safe access to these advanced systems is essential.

Technology has reshaped communication in ways that were unimaginable a few decades ago. From simple voice calls to high-speed, real-time connections between people and machines, communication has become faster, more reliable, and richer. At the same time, attention to security, privacy, and equal access remains essential to ensure that everyone can benefit from these advances.

Reference 

Bhushan, B., Sharma, S. K., Kumar, R., & Priyadarshini, I. (2023). 5G and Beyond. In Springer tracts in electrical and electronics engineering. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-99-3668-7

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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Understanding Media Regulation: Concepts and Implementation

Understanding Media Regulation: Concepts and Implementation

Media and communication have a powerful influence on society, shaping public opinion, guiding behavior, and controlling the flow of information. To ensure this influence is responsible and aligned with public interest, regulations are essential. Regulation in media can be defined as deliberate interventions in the activities of a target population to achieve specific objectives.

Koop and Lodge emphasize that these interventions are intentional, may be direct or indirect, and can involve public or private actors. Baldwin further distinguishes between essence-based and pattern-based definitions: the essence-based perspective highlights the minimal elements necessary for a phenomenon to qualify as regulation, while the pattern-based perspective focuses on the prototype of regulation, characterized by binding standards, monitoring, and sanctioning, usually applied by public-sector regulators over private-sector activities. These definitions provide a structured framework to understand regulation not merely as rules but as purposeful actions aimed at steering behavior and maintaining accountability in the media sector.

Necessity of Media Regulation

Media regulation is necessary because of the significant societal impact of media. Unregulated media can spread misinformation, propaganda, or harmful content, undermining trust and social cohesion. Where regulations protect vulnerable groups, including children, from exposure to inappropriate or harmful material, and help maintain diversity and fairness in media markets by preventing excessive concentration of ownership. Additionally, regulation ensures ethical handling of data and privacy in the digital environment.

From a theoretical perspective, understanding regulation allows policymakers to design strategies that balance freedom of expression with societal protection, ensuring that media contribute positively to democratic processes while mitigating potential risks.

Implementation of Media Regulation

Implementing media regulations requires a combination of public and private actors and both direct and indirect interventions. Public regulators establish binding standards and monitor compliance. Private organizations complement this by developing flexible guidelines and ethical codes, particularly in emerging digital platforms. Strategic application focuses on the pattern-based prototype of regulation—binding rules, monitoring, and sanctioning—while allowing for less central variations such as non-binding standards or interventions in public-sector activities.

The combination of theory, strategy, and practice ensures that regulations are not only conceptually sound but also practically effective, providing clear mechanisms to achieve desired outcomes in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

Media and communication regulations are intentional interventions that guide and control media activities. They protect public interest, vulnerable groups, and ensure fairness in media markets. Effective regulation combines theory, strategy, and practice, allowing regulators to enforce standards while supporting responsible media operations and values. 

Reference 

Baldwin, R., Cave, M., & Lodge, M. (2011). Understanding regulation. https://doi.org/10.1093/acprof:osobl/9780199576081.001.0001

Koop, C., & Lodge, M. (2015). What is regulation? An interdisciplinary concept analysis. Regulation & Governance, 11(1), 95–108. https://doi.org/10.1111/rego.12094

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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The Vital Connection Of Mental Health Awareness and Student Well-Being

The Vital Connection Of Mental Health Awareness and Student Well-Being

In today’s world, mental health has become an important part of student life, especially for university students who face academic pressure, deadlines, and personal challenges. Mental health awareness is not only about understanding mental illness, but also about encouraging students to care for their emotional well-being, support others, and seek help when needed. In the university environment, promoting mental health awareness can help create a healthier and more supportive campus community.

Reducing Stigma Among Students

One of the biggest benefits of mental health awareness is reducing stigma. Many students still feel afraid or embarrassed to talk about stress, anxiety, or emotional struggles because they worry about being judged. As a result, they often keep their problems to themselves. However, by increasing awareness on campus, students can have a better understanding of mental health struggles that are common and should not be seen as a weakness. Open discussions can help create a more supportive environment where students feel comfortable sharing their experiences and supporting one another.

Encouraging Early Support

Mental health awareness also helps students recognize early signs of stress or emotional difficulties. Problems such as constant exhaustion, loss of motivation, or changes in sleeping habits are often ignored because students think they are simply “not trying hard enough.”When students understand these signs, they are more likely to seek support earlier, before the situation becomes more serious. Early support can help students manage academic and personal challenges more effectively and maintain a better balance in their daily lives.

Campus Support and Student Resources

At UII, students can access mental health support easily through services such as the Student Counseling Guidance Center (PBKM). The campus also provides peer support programs like PIKM AUSHAF, where students can share stories and support each other in a comfortable environment. These services are important because they give students a place to talk, ask for guidance, and feel supported during difficult times. Mental health awareness encourages students to make use of these resources without fear or shame.

As Mental Health Awareness Month reminds us, mental health should never be ignored. Students should learn to listen to their bodies and minds, recognize when they are overwhelmed, and prioritize their well-being without feeling pressured by society’s expectations. 

Reference

Fleary, S. A., Joseph, P. L., Gonçalves, C., Somogie, J., & Angeles, J. (2022). The Relationship Between Health Literacy and Mental Health Attitudes and Beliefs. Health Literacy Research and Practice, 6(4), e270–e279. https://doi.org/10.3928/24748307-20221018-01

Kutcher, S., Wei, Y., Costa, S., Gusmão, R., Skokauskas, N., & Sourander, A. (2016). Enhancing mental health literacy in young people. In European Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (Vol. 25, Issue 6, pp. 567–569). Dr. Dietrich Steinkopff Verlag GmbH and Co. KG. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00787-016-0867-9

Lamichhane, B.-B. (2023). Association Between Mental Health Literacy and Stigma: A Review. AMC Journal, 4(1), 53–66. https://doi.org/10.3126/amcj.v4i1.63834

Direktorat Pembinaan Kemahasiswaan UII. (2023, August 3). Student Counseling – Direktorat Pembinaan Kemahasiswaan (DPK) UII. Direktorat Pembinaan Kemahasiswaan (DPK) UII. https://kemahasiswaan.uii.ac.id/layanan/student-counseling/

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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Digital Literacy: The Modern Foundation for Life

Digital Literacy: The Modern Foundation for Life

In the 21st century, technology isn’t just a tool; it’s the environment we live in. Since our world has shifted so rapidly, the definition of “literacy” also has had to grow. It’s no longer enough to just read and write; we now need to navigate, evaluate, and communicate through digital screens. Digital literacy has moved from being a “bonus” skill on a resume to a fundamental requirement for living a functional, informed life.

Why Digital Literacy Matters

Digital literacy is the engine that drives success in almost every aspect of modern life. It isn’t just about knowing how to use a computer; it’s about how those skills translate into real-world outcomes.

  • Career Growth: In today’s job market, digital skills are non-negotiable. Beyond just using software, employers value the ability to adapt to new platforms and communicate effectively in a virtual space. This adaptability is what builds economic resilience.
  • Educational Success: Learning has moved beyond the classroom. Whether it’s a fully online course or a hybrid model, students who master digital tools can access better resources and collaborate more effectively, setting them up for a tech-driven workforce.
  • Social Inclusion: Technology should be a bridge, not a barrier. Digital literacy allows people to access essential services like healthcare or banking, and participate in the global conversation. It ensures that no one is left behind simply because they don’t know how to navigate an app.
  • Critical Thinking: We are currently living through an era of information overload. Digital literacy provides the framework to question sources, spot biases, and use information ethically. While we are still learning exactly how much this protects us from misinformation, it remains our first line of defense.

How to Build Your Digital Literacy

Developing these skills is a lifelong process, but it generally follows a clear path of growth:

  1. Master the Basics: Start with the technical “how-to.” This means becoming comfortable with devices, common software, and the basic mechanics of online communication.
  2. Evaluate Information: This is the “why.” It’s the ability to look at a piece of content and determine if it’s credible, accurate, and ethical. In a world of “fake news,” this is perhaps the most vital survival skill.
  3. Practice Digital Ethics: Literacy includes how you treat others. This involves protecting your own data, respecting the intellectual property of others, and maintaining a responsible presence in digital communities.
  4. Stay Curious and Adaptable: Technology never stands still. The most digitally literate people are those who commit to continuous learning, whether through formal courses or simply by staying active in new digital spaces.

The Bottom Line

Digital literacy is the key to unlocking the opportunities of the modern world. It levels the playing field in education, empowers us in our careers, and helps us stay connected to society. As technology continues to evolve, our commitment to learning it must evolve too. By prioritizing these skills, we ensure that we aren’t just observers of the digital age, but active, informed participants in it.

Reference:

Mujiono, M. (2024). Digital literacy: fundamental competence for modern society. DIDAKTIKA Jurnal Pemikiran Pendidikan, 30(1), 15. https://doi.org/10.30587/didaktika.v30i1.6906

Ip, C. Y. (2024). Effect of digital literacy on social entrepreneurial intentions and nascent behaviours among students and practitioners in mass communication. Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-023-02587-w

Alom, M. M., & R, V. (2024). DIGITAL LITERACY A PARADIGM SHIFT IN 21ST CENTURY. In 21st Century Teaching and Learning in Classroo (pp. 99–102). https://doi.org/10.58532/nbennurctch13

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita