Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Nezar Patria warned Indonesia's younger generation about the dangers of algorithmic dominance, which he described as a new form of colonialism in the digital era.

According to Nezar, people today live in a digital space shaped by social media platforms and algorithms, making it increasingly difficult to distinguish between facts, opinions, and manipulated information.

"Today, our lives are mediated by digital platforms. Even the way we think is slowly shaped by algorithms," Nezar said in a statement on Sunday.

"What we like keeps being shown to us, while other views are pushed aside. We live in filter bubbles and echo chambers," he added.

He warned that the situation could trigger social polarization, amplify misinformation, and weaken people's critical thinking skills, especially among young people.

Nezar cited a World Economic Forum report identifying misinformation and disinformation as among the world's biggest risks in 2026, surpassing many geopolitical threats.

"People now trust sentiments more than facts. If they like something, they immediately believe it; if they dislike it, they reject it. That is dangerous," he stressed.

He also highlighted rapid developments in artificial intelligence (AI), ranging from generative AI and agentic AI to robotics-based physical AI.

According to Nezar, global competition is no longer centered solely on natural resources, but increasingly on control over data, computing, semiconductors, and digital talent.

"Today's most important battle is over AI chips and technological mastery. If Indonesia remains only a technology user, our demographic bonus will bring little impact," he said.

Nezar said Indonesia has major advantages in its demographic bonus and strategic mineral resources needed by the global technology industry.

However, he warned that those advantages would mean little without high-quality human resources capable of mastering science and technology.

He urged young people to strengthen their science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) skills and digital literacy to avoid falling into algorithmic manipulation.

"We must become players in the global digital industry, not merely a market and consumers of technology," he stressed.

Nezar also encouraged youth and student organizations to help build national technological independence and maintain a healthy, critical, and productive digital space.

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