Ministry of Communication and Digital Emphasises Importance of Parental Guidance in the Digital World
The rapid development of digital technology has transformed various aspects of society, including how families communicate, learn, and access information. Amidst this digital transformation, the role of parents, especially mothers, is considered increasingly vital in guiding children to use technology healthily and responsibly. Consequently, the Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) is encouraging the emergence of more ‘Digital Guides’ (Pandu Digital) from within the family environment.
Digital Guides are individuals who possess digital literacy knowledge and play a role in disseminating that knowledge to the surrounding community. In a family context, mothers are seen as having a strategic position due to their close daily interaction with children. The presence of mothers as Digital Guides is expected to help children face various challenges that arise in the digital space.
Currently, the use of gadgets and the internet has become part of children’s lives from an early age. Various activities, ranging from studying and playing to communicating with friends, are largely conducted through digital devices. This situation means that it is no longer sufficient for parents to merely limit gadget use; they also need to understand how technology works and how to accompany children while using it.
During a digital literacy education event, a representative from Komdigi invited parents to take a more active role in building a healthy digital ecosystem within the family. They believe that digital education should begin at home before being applied to the wider community.
“We want all the mothers here to be part of our Digital Guides and to become part of the large Komdigi family as Digital Guides,” said Meutya Hafid, the Minister of Communication and Digital of the Republic of Indonesia.
Meutya emphasised that digital literacy is not just about the ability to use technology, but also encompasses an understanding of digital security, media ethics, personal data protection, and the ability to filter information circulating on the internet. This knowledge is essential so that families can utilise technology optimally without neglecting aspects of security and mental health.
The role of mothers as Digital Guides is not limited to the home environment. After acquiring adequate knowledge and skills, mothers are expected to share their experiences and education with other families in their surroundings. In this way, digital literacy can expand more broadly through an approach that is closely connected to daily community life.
According to Meuthea, the public can access various digital literacy training programmes for free through platforms provided by the government. Available materials cover various topics, ranging from digital security and digital ethics to the productive use of technology for families and society.
The challenges faced by families today are increasingly diverse, including exposure to age-inappropriate content, the spread of fake news, cyberbullying, and gadget addiction. These conditions make parental guidance increasingly important. Open communication between parents and children is considered a key factor in building healthy digital habits.
Furthermore, parents are expected to set an example in technology use, as children tend to mimic the habits they observe daily. Therefore, building a healthy digital culture must start within the family through wise, balanced, and appropriate use of technology. Through strengthening the role of mothers as Digital Guides, Komdigi hopes that the public will not only be technology users but will also be able to utilise digital spaces productively and safely.