Indonesian Government Communication in Media Framing in Covid-19 Crisis Policy

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to explore the Indonesian Government's communication strategies and how these strategies are framed in the media during the COVID-19 crisis. The research aims to understand the portrayal of government directives and public health measures in prominent Indonesian news outlets.   Theoretical Reference: This study is grounded in media framing theory, which examines how information is presented and the effects of this presentation on public perception. The research specifically investigates the framing of governmental crisis communication within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.   Method: A qualitative content analysis was conducted on articles from Detik.com and Liputan6.com, covering the period from January 2020 to December 2022. The analysis was facilitated by NVivo 12 Plus, which was used to systematically assess the media portrayal of government actions and public health initiatives.   Results and Conclusion: The findings reveal that Detik.com initially led in pandemic coverage, while Liputan6.com later provided more frequent updates as public information demands increased. Both outlets maintained substantial attention to the ongoing social and economic impacts of the pandemic, demonstrating continued media engagement with post-crisis issues. Distinct media framing approaches were identified, with Detik.com focusing extensively on pandemic management and Liputan6.com possibly emphasizing alternative crisis narratives. The study concludes that governmental crisis communication significantly influences public perception and highlights the crucial role of transparent and accurate information dissemination for effective public response in health emergencies.   Implications of Research: This research underscores the importance of strategic media engagement by government authorities during crises. By identifying different framing approaches, it provides insights into how media platforms can shape public understanding and reaction to government policies. The findings suggest that government agencies should prioritize clear, consistent, and transparent communication to foster trust and ensure effective public compliance during health emergencies.   Originality/Value: This study contributes to the limited body of research on media framing of governmental communication during health crises in Indonesia. It offers valuable insights into the dynamics between government communication strategies and media portrayal, highlighting the significant role of media in influencing public perception during a pandemic. This research emphasizes the necessity of effective communication strategies to manage public responses and mitigate the impact of health emergencies.