JAKARTA, PRINDONESIA.CO - According to political analysts and strategic expositors, ArifSusanto, through his written statement to PR Indonesia, Tuesday (15/1/2019), this condition requires government public relations (GPR) to remain confident. Massive dissemination of hoaxdoes not only have a chance to reduce the public’strusttoward the government, but also has a conflictual impact that results in social polarization. In this situation, Arif appealed to GPR not to be reactionary, and instead GPR must be responsive.

At least there are three positive attitudes that need to be developed by GPR. First, anticipative. Government public relations must prepare scenarios when dealing with a change of condition. Just like the saying prepare for the best, ready for the worst. Second, responsive. The social dynamics that change so quickly make GPR need to balance the rhythm so that they don’t lag behind. One of them is by being responsive. Third, democratic. The task of PR is to strive for the creation of mutual understanding. Democratic attitudes help PR to read public interests while avoiding repressive actions that disturb stability that has the potential to lead to conflict. "The combination of the three attitudes can help PR, especially government public relations, to adapt to new challenges and increase their contribution in the year of politics," Arif said.

Especially in the year of politics, GPR's effort to win public trust is a challenging task. In the midst of issues, hoaxes, fake news that are increasingly heating up and has the potential to reduce the public’strust ahead of the election, GPR has other important tasks. Namely, problem solver, other than being a communication facilitator. With this dual task, GPR must be able to develop arguments that arouse the community’s rationality. "Rationality is what we need to be able to digest information and sort out the truth from lies," he added. (rvh)