
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XV, Issue III, March 2026
traditional symbols, like the flag, national songs, or local clothing, with digital trends, memes, and contemporary
aesthetics, creating new ways to affirm their cultural identity while negotiating global influences (Kolip, 2011).
One digital media that is gaining popularity is IDN Times, which takes a current and relevant approach to reach
millennial and Gen Z audiences. IDN Times presents light yet comprehensive content, covering social, cultural,
historical, and national issues that are relevant to the daily lives of its readers, in contrast to mainstream media
such as Kompas.com and Detik.com, which often present news formally and factually. In addition, IDN Times
also presents unique channels such as 'Hype' and 'Indonesia Millennial Report' that often raise ideas about
diversity and pride in Indonesian identity (IDN Media, 2020). This approach makes IDN Times not only a source
of information but also a platform for national identity formation in the digital era.
This study bridges the gap by investigating how Generation Z Indonesians use their Instagram content to
represent and negotiate their national identity. It is hoped that this study will offer important insights for the
creation of civic education policies, public communication plans, and national character development initiatives
that are more adaptive to modern digital realities by understanding the dynamics of national identity
representation in digital media (Suryadi, 2020).
THEORETICAL REVIEW
National identity and Generations Z
National identity is the collective awareness held by members of a nation regarding the values, culture, history,
symbols, and traditions that distinguish them from other nations and foster a sense of togetherness and solidarity
as part of a nation (Smith, 1991). This concept is important because it relates to a nation's collective awareness
of the values, culture, history, and symbols that shape a nation's character. National identity forms the basis for
social solidarity and national integration in a diverse society. In the Indonesian context, national identity is often
associated with the values of Pancasila, the Indonesian language, and the motto "Bhinneka Tunggal Ika," which
reflects unity in diversity. This national identity is not static but continues to evolve in accordance with the social,
political, and cultural dynamics within society.
Anderson (2006) states that a nation is an imagined community, a community imagined by its members through
various symbols, historical narratives, and communication practices that foster a sense of togetherness. Thus,
national identity is not only constructed through state institutions but also through social communication
processes that enable individuals to feel part of a broader community. Media, education, and social interaction
play a crucial role in shaping collective awareness of national identity.
The formation of national identity in modern society is also influenced by globalization and advances in
communication technology. Globalization opens access to diverse cultures and values from various countries,
often creating a conflict between national identity and global identity. This creates a process of identity
negotiation where individuals must balance local and global identities. In this context, national identity is
perceived as exclusive and continually adapting to ongoing social changes (Castells, 2010).
The development of digital technology also influences how the younger generation understands their national
identity. They are a generation born and raised in a digital environment, thus developing a close relationship with
information technology and social media. This generation is often referred to as digital natives because they have
been accustomed to using the internet and digital devices in their daily lives since childhood. These
characteristics contribute to Generation Z's distinct communication patterns compared to previous generations,
particularly in terms of social interaction and identity formation (Turner, 2015).
Social media has become a primary platform for Generation Z to express their identity, including their national
identity. Digital media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter enable young people to share content
related to local culture, national symbols, and social issues related to nationality. In this context, social media
functions not only as a means of communication but also as a cultural space that enables the formation of
collective identity through digital communication practices (Castells, 2010). Generation Z can utilize digital
media to promote local culture, introduce national values, and strengthen social solidarity within society.