Asian Journal of Media and Culture

Local and Global Cultural Interaction: Representation in Asian Video Games as a Medium of Cultural Communication

Yurina Gusanti — 2025-07-06

This study aims to explore the influence of cultural representation in video games on players' perceptions in the context of globalization. Using a qualitative approach and literature study, this research analyzes relevant literature on how video games integrate cultural elements from various countries and affect players' views of other cultures. Data is collected from various articles, journals, and books discussing themes such as cultural representation, globalization, and player interaction in video games. The results indicate that video games function as a medium that enables players to engage with foreign cultures through visual elements, narrative, and gameplay. Furthermore, the study finds that video games can introduce cultural elements previously unknown to players, while simultaneously shaping their perceptions of those cultures. These findings provide new insights into how video games can serve as a tool for expanding intercultural understanding, reducing stereotypes, and enhancing cultural dialogue in the era of globalization. The implications of this research suggest that video games have the potential to create spaces for more inclusive and profound cultural exchange. The study also opens opportunities for further research examining the social and cultural impacts of video games, particularly in the context of globalization's influence on the gaming industry and players' perceptions of foreign cultures.

Cultural Frameworks of Consumerism: A Comparative Study of Global Brand Narratives in Bollywood and Hollywood Commercial Films

Deddy Desmal — 2025-07-06

This study explores how commercial media from Bollywood and Hollywood represent and promote consumerist culture. Cultural globalization has caused the film industry, especially Bollywood and Hollywood, to become significant tools in shaping and influencing consumerist values in society. Using a qualitative approach based on literature review, this research analyzes the representation of consumerism in films from both industries and how audiences respond to consumerist portrayals within their cultural contexts. The study aims to investigate how consumerist values are promoted in these industries and their impact on societal consumption behavior. Data used includes film texts, scientific articles, journals, and books related to consumerism in mass media. The findings indicate that both Bollywood and Hollywood strongly depict consumerism through portrayals of luxurious lifestyles, branded goods, and consumption aspirations embedded in film narratives. While similarities exist in their promotion of consumerism, Bollywood emphasizes traditional and familial values, whereas Hollywood tends to prioritize individualism and luxury lifestyles. This research provides deeper insight into the role of film media in shaping global consumption and contributes to understanding globalization’s influence on consumer behavior.

Cultural Incompatibility in Digital News Adoption: Social Inequality and Political Information Dissemination in Indonesia

Nuzul Fadhli Ramadhan — 2025-07-06

This study focuses on how digital technology and culture mutually influence each other in shaping patterns of political participation in contemporary society. It is grounded in the reality that changes in the political landscape today are determined not only by developments in information technology but also by how local culture responds to and shapes the use of such technology. Using a qualitative approach through literature review, this research examines the dynamics of information technology development especially digital media in transforming political behavior and highlights the crucial role of cultural values and social norms in this process. The literature analyzed includes topics related to digital activism, the role of social media in political movements, and the responses of different social groups to technology adoption. The findings indicate that digital media has great potential to expand political participation space. However, this impact is not universal; it heavily depends on the surrounding social and cultural contexts. While technology enables more open and rapid political communication, factors such as digital access disparities and cultural diversity may limit the effectiveness of such participation. This study enriches the understanding of the interaction between digital media and local culture in political contexts and provides insight into how technology acts not just as a tool but also as a space shaped by and shaping the political cultural meanings of contemporary society.

The Double-Edged Sword: Social Media’s Impact on Press Freedom and Democratic Information Flows in Diverse Asian Contexts

Sulaiman Juned — 2025-07-07

This article examines the controversy surrounding press freedom in Asia, focusing on the influence of social media on the democratization of information in Asian countries. Press freedom in Asia faces significant challenges from both political pressure and government control over traditional media. In the digital age, social media has become the primary platform for information sharing; however, it also presents new challenges related to the spread of inaccurate information and restrictions on freedom of expression. This study employs a literature review method to analyze relevant works concerning the relationship between social media, press freedom, and the democratization of information across various Asian countries. The findings indicate that while social media has the potential to expand democratic space, its impact on press freedom is heavily influenced by government policies and local socio-political conditions. In some countries, social media is used to advocate for free speech and amplify opposition voices, whereas in others, it serves as a government tool to limit the flow of information deemed harmful. The article further highlights the challenges Asian countries face in balancing information freedom and social media regulation to prevent misinformation. The study concludes that social media plays a crucial role in advancing press freedom, but its success depends on wise management and appropriate regulation.

Algorithmic Cultural Mediation: TikTok as a Venue for Youth Identity Negotiation and Local Heritage Preservation in Southeast Asia

Dani Manesah — 2025-07-06

This study explores the role of TikTok as a medium for cultural expression and self-identity among teenagers in Southeast Asia, as well as its contribution to the preservation of local culture amid globalization. Using a qualitative approach, this research analyzes how TikTok enables young people to express their local culture, engage within global communities, and develop both personal and collective identities. Data were collected through literature review and content analysis of TikTok videos produced by users from various Southeast Asian countries. The main findings indicate that TikTok functions as a platform that democratizes cultural expression, allowing users to widely showcase traditional practices and socio-political issues. The platform also plays a role in social activism, with young users leveraging TikTok to raise awareness on issues like human rights and climate change. However, challenges arise related to cultural homogenization due to the dominance of global trends. This study concludes that TikTok can strengthen local cultural preservation while simultaneously providing space for global cultural exchange. Implications of this research highlight the importance of balancing participation in global culture with the preservation of local values, which can be optimized through cross-cultural collaboration. Further research is needed to explore the long-term impact of TikTok on the cultural and social identities of Southeast Asian youth.