Unveiling the Digital Narrative: Exploring the Public Perception of Police's Involvement in the Kanjuruhan Tragedy via Social Media Discourse

Nurhayani Saragih; Mohamad Saifudin Mohamad Saleh; Endri Endri; Suraya Mansur; Anindita Susilo; Irmulansati Tomohardjo

doi:10.35516/Hum.2025.8263

Authors

Nurhayani Saragih Faculty of Communication Sciences, Universitas Mercu Buana, Jakarta Barat, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1482-4273
Mohamad Saifudin Mohamad Saleh School of Communication, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Minden, Malaysia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1591-0002
Endri Endri Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Mercu Buana, Jakarta Barat, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8613-6149
Suraya Mansur Faculty of Communication Sciences, Universitas Mercu Buana, Jakarta Barat, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0688-6784
Anindita Susilo Faculty of Communication Sciences, Universitas Mercu Buana, Jakarta Barat, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6235-9789
Irmulansati Tomohardjo Faculty of Communication Sciences, Universitas Mercu Buana, Jakarta Barat, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0009-0003-6104-2976

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.35516/Hum.2025.8263

Keywords:

Social media, fantasy themes, symbolic convergence, the spiral of silenc

Abstract

Objectives: The study explores how fantasy themes, fantasy chain messages, and rhetorical visions shape public perceptions of police in the context of Kanjuruhan tragedy by analyzing netizen comments on YouTube accounts @narasinews and @persebayaofficial

Method: The study used ethnographic and theoretical frameworks used in study were symbolic convergence theory, agenda theory, and spiral of silence theory.

Results: Analysis shows significant differences in narrative and attitude toward the police between the two accounts. @narasinews presented a negative narrative, emphasizing criticism of police, whereas @persebayaofficial presented a positive narrative, expressing support for police action. The fantasy theme that dominates @narasinews is criticism of police, while the theme that emerges in @persebayaofficial is appreciation of cops. They also highlighted importance of further investigation into Kanjuruhan tragedy. The discussion highlighted how social media, such as @persebayaofficial account, sought to break the dominance of reporting that was considered unbalanced, in line with spiral of silence theory. Both accounts also voiced the need for further investigation, showing a common desire to comprehend what was happening deeply. In conclusion, fantasy themes and chain messages are essential in shaping public perceptions of police on social media.

Conclusion: In a digital context, communication theories such as symbolic convergence and the spiral of silence help understand interaction dynamics and public opinion. Implications: A better understanding of social media's influence and underlying communication theories can assist in managing information and understanding the complex social dynamics in the digital age.

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