Taufiq Rahman, editor-in-chief of the Jakarta Post, delivers a speech at the 2024 ASEAN-China Media Cooperation Forum on June 21, 2024. [Photo courtesy of China International Communications Group] 

The media plays a crucial role in bridging cultural and political divides, especially amid current global competition, said Taufiq Rahman, editor-in-chief of the Jakarta Post, at the 2024 ASEAN-China Media Cooperation Forum on June 21.

Speaking to China.org.cn, Rahman emphasized the significance of the forum, themed "Amity and Innovation for a Shared Future," in promoting positive narratives through media platforms.

"The media plays a crucial role in bridging cultural and political divides," Rahman said. "With the current global competition, it's even more important for us to promote positive narratives through our platforms."

Rahman believes that the media can significantly impact how people perceive international relationships. "The media can play a role in putting things in perspective, telling our audience that the prosperity of Indonesia lies with working with China, simply because of the economic ties," he said. He illustrated this by citing the recently inaugurated Jakarta-Bandung High Speed Railway, a flagship project under the Belt and Road Initiative.

He also highlighted the cultural ties between Indonesia and China. "Cultural exchanges should be more intensive," he suggested. "In the 70s and 80s, martial arts movies from China were a significant part of Indonesian culture."  Rahman expressed his desire to see more such exchanges, as they foster mutual understanding and appreciation between the two nations.

Addressing Indonesia's apprehension towards China's development,  Rahman stressed the need for a unified and cooperative stance. "We should approach China's development with an open mind and seek win-win solutions through dialogue and cooperation," he said.

Looking ahead, Rahman expressed optimism about the future of China-ASEAN media cooperation, emphasizing that stronger ties and a shared future for the region can be built with the right approach and commitment.