In a recent statement from Airlangga University, Anak Agung Gde Bagus Wahyu Dhyatmika, an esteemed alumnus of the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP), has been hailed as an inspirational figure in the realm of digital journalism. Currently serving as the CEO of Tempo Digital, Wahyu is also an active member of the Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI), advocating for press freedom and journalist welfare.
Wahyu’s passion for journalism was ignited during the student movement era of 1997-1998 when he actively contributed as a campus journalist. “So that was one of the experiences that finally forged my journalistic skills,” he reflected. “It happened to match what I learned in the lecture room.”
Upon graduating, Wahyu embarked on his professional journey as a journalist in Jakarta in 2002. As a field reporter, he quickly adapted to the dynamic environment, covering news from various key locations such as government offices, courts, police stations, and Parliament. “It was an unforgettable experience when I could write 10 to 15 news stories a day on various topics,” he recalled. “At that time, it was not difficult because all the sources were in one place, so there was no need to go around. I was walking a little, meeting parliament members, and there was a lot of news.”
In 2004, Wahyu furthered his education at the University of Westminster, specializing in International Journalism and Media. After his studies, he returned to Tempo, dedicating himself to transforming digital media. Rising through the ranks, he eventually became the CEO, focusing on maintaining Tempo’s independence and journalistic integrity while pioneering digital media in Indonesia.
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“One of the characteristics of digital media is that the public is interactive. We can no longer just be one-way. The public must be involved, the public must be active, there must be engagement, and the editorial team must involve readers,” Wahyu emphasized.
Wahyu’s innovative spirit extends beyond journalism. He has spearheaded educational projects through the YouTube channel Kok Bisa and developed Tempo Witness, an empowering platform for marginalized communities. Collaborating with Internews’ Earth Journalism Network, Hivos, and the WWF, Tempo Witness exemplifies his commitment to community engagement.
As an influential alumnus, Wahyu aspires for Airlangga University to remain a beacon of openness and innovation. He envisions its graduates becoming agents of change across various sectors. “Continue to be a fun, inclusive, open, non-dogmatic place to learn. The best campus is one that gives its students the opportunity to learn and make mistakes,” he encouraged.
