Depok, October 16, 2023 – Social media has become an essential component in the digital era, playing an increasingly crucial role for institutions, particularly for the Depok City Government. It is no longer just a communication tool but also a vital platform for building institutional branding.

The Faculty of Administrative Sciences, University of Indonesia (FIA UI), is committed to encouraging the Depok City Government to leverage social media and innovation as powerful tools to enhance public services through an integrated community service program. Through this initiative, FIA UI’s community service team, gathered at the FIA UI Campus in Depok, emphasized the importance of using social media to build institutional branding, increase public trust, and foster a culture of innovation.

Dr. Ixora Lundia Suwaryono, S.Sos., M.S., the Manager of Research and Community Service at FIA UI, stated that this community service activity can positively impact the Depok City Government by improving public service quality and ensuring better public reception while also enhancing government performance.

Agung Sugih Arti, S.Pd., M.M., Head of the Organization Division of the Depok City Government, acknowledged that social media and innovation can serve as effective tools to improve the quality of public services, in line with bureaucratic reform efforts in Depok City.

Dr. Sidik Pramono, a lecturer at FIA UI, highlighted that branding through social media and other platforms is essential, especially as social media users continue to grow. However, he also emphasized the importance of maintaining data confidentiality and upholding ethical standards when sharing information with the public.

“It takes a lifetime to build a reputation but only a moment to destroy it. This is why it is crucial to start building a positive image while adhering to ethical guidelines. Social media is the key to building public trust today, as almost everyone relies on social platforms for information,” said Dr. Sidik.

Meanwhile, Imam Alfie Syarien, another FIA UI lecturer, explained why innovation is often difficult to cultivate in government. “Government bureaucracy tends to be hierarchical, while most innovations rely on collaborative relationships. Innovation also requires room for trial and error, something that is often absent in the public sector,” he said.

Alfie emphasized the need for open dialogue between the government and the public to encourage mutual input. He stressed that impactful innovation requires strong collaboration between public institutions and society.

“Service and resource sharing are common practices in developed countries as they improve efficiency, accessibility, and service quality. The key lies in strengthening communication, cooperation, coordination, and cross-sector collaboration,” he added.

The initiative received positive feedback from the Depok City Government. Aisyah, a member of the Organization and Governance Bureau, expressed appreciation for the insights gained during the event.

“This activity broadened our understanding and provided hope for the implementation of the Electronic-Based Government System (SPBE) in Depok City. There is still much to be done to improve public services and government administration. We also learned how to enhance public trust and utilize social media, which is knowledge we greatly need. Success to FIA UI and the Depok City Government—I hope activities like this continue,” said Aisyah.

The event took place on Monday, October 9, 2023, at the M Building of FIA UI in Depok and was attended by approximately 50 participants, including FIA UI lecturers and Depok City Government officials.