Media and entertainment

From Prospek

There are many publications, particularly newspapers and periodicals, which entertain the public. But when it comes to the contents and techniques of presentation, we must make a further examination of the materials.

A much closer look at these materials is necessary due to the influence of globalization. Globalization almost means that there is no critical judgment of behavior and no constraints. I have good reasons for expressing my concern, because escape from the tide of globalization seems impossible.

Unfortunately, the newspapers and magazines publishers take advantage of these circumstances to push subscription levels. The entertaining publications present sensual pictures, disregarding the country's ethical values.

The readers, on their part, seek to enjoy regular articles on sex and health. More often than not, these articles are accompanied by porn pictures and presented in a vulgar way. Because they are freely available, not only can adult readers enjoy the materials but children can also have free access to their vulgar world. The children do not really want to benefit from the information or educational aspect of the articles, but just want to enjoy the pornography they contain.

The problem is what should be done to prevent children from having access to such materials. It is quite unlikely to be able to stop children from seeing or buying the materials simply because the materials are freely available in newspapers stalls, at street junctions and in super-markets.

This is a challenge to media publishers, the government and parents as well as educators. Taking into account the fact that children are vulnerable to negative things, it is necessary to limit the distribution of the materials to certain locations to reduce the risk. Also, the language used in the articles should be so carefully articulated that it does not overly provoke sexual passion. It should be realized that sensual and pornographic articles and pictures can also upset national stability.

SETIAWAN MARGANA

Jakarta