West Kalimantan Human Rights Directorate General strengthens digital tolerance culture

Pontianak (ANTARA) – The Directorate General of Human Rights Instruments and Strengthening for West Kalimantan (Ditjen IDP HAM Kalbar) is strengthening public education and understanding on the importance of respecting human rights (HAM), including in digital media use and daily social life.

“Respect for human rights must begin with simple daily actions, such as respecting others’ opinions, avoiding discrimination, and maintaining tolerance and mutual respect,” said Untung Wibawa, Head of the Human Rights Instruments and Strengthening Section for West Kalimantan, in Pontianak on Thursday.

He stated that HAM values must be embedded in societal culture and practically applied in family, school, workplace, and public spaces.

He added that respecting HAM is not only about legal regulations but also involves appreciating differences and preserving human dignity in community life.

He explained that the public plays a crucial role in creating a safe, peaceful, and harmonious environment by implementing HAM values across all aspects of life.

Furthermore, the development of information technology and social media poses unique challenges in strengthening HAM.

Therefore, the public is urged to be more prudent in using digital spaces to avoid spreading hate speech, hoaxes, or harmful content.

“Digital ethics is also a crucial part of implementing respect for human rights,” he said.

On various occasions, the IDP HAM Kalbar Section continues to conduct awareness campaigns, education, and capacity-building activities on HAM for the public, students, university students, government officials, and social communities.

Untung added that strengthening HAM values is also expected to support inclusive and equitable development in West Kalimantan.

With increased public awareness of HAM respect, harmonious social relations amid societal diversity can be maintained.

He also called on the youth to be agents of change in spreading humanitarian values, tolerance, and respect for human rights in their communities.

“HAM is not just the government’s responsibility but a collective duty of all societal elements. By mutually respecting each other’s rights, we can create a more peaceful, just, and dignified social life,” he said.