International Office of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon Plays Key Role in International Seminar on Cyber and Information Ethics Organized by UINSSC and FPPTI
Cirebon, 17 July 2025 — The International Office of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon (UINSSC) took part in organizing the International Seminar on Cyber and Information Ethics, held in collaboration with the West Java Forum of Islamic University Libraries (FPPTI) and the UINSSC Digital Library. The event brought together librarians, academics, students, and digital practitioners from across Indonesia and abroad. Themed “Navigating the Landscape of Cyber Ethics and Information Ethics: Exploring the Challenges, Management Strategies, and Policies in the Realm of Digital Libraries” , the seminar offered in-depth perspectives on ethical issues in the digital age. Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D., Director of the International Office at UIN SSC, served as the event moderator. “It’s an honor to be part of this global conversation on the ethics of digital information management,” he said in her opening remarks.
As part of UINSSC’s internationalization efforts, the International Office remains committed to fostering global collaboration through high-impact academic events. This seminar marked a strategic step in expanding the university’s academic network and enhancing its global reputation. The active involvement of the International Office highlights UINSSC’s role in initiating global discussions on contemporary issues, especially those related to digital ethics and library-based information management. It also served as a platform for librarians and scholars to exchange insights and strategies for navigating the digital era. With strong international participation, the seminar proved that UINSSC is capable of hosting world-class academic events.
During the seminar, Amir Hussain Md. Ishak, Chief Librarian at Asia e University and former Chief Librarian at Universiti Putra Malaysia with over 40 years of experience, addressed the importance of cyber and information ethics in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). He emphasized that principles such as data protection, privacy, and social responsibility are becoming increasingly critical in digital technology use. “AI is not a replacement for humans, but rather a tool that empowers those who can use it ethically,” he stated. He also highlighted the need for AI ethics regulation at the ASEAN level, including national AI strategies in Indonesia and Malaysia. According to him, librarians must improve their information and AI literacy, safeguard privacy, and combat misinformation in digital library services.
Next, Dr. Labibah Zain, M.LIS., a member of the Special Libraries Association (SLA) Asia and a lecturer at UIN Sunan Kalijaga, presented a session titled "Ethical Issues in Digital Libraries: Information for All and Privacy". She stressed that access to information is a fundamental human right, as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the 2003 World Summit on the Information Society Declaration. She also highlighted the importance of Open Educational Resources (OER), as well as issues related to copyright, privacy, and inclusivity, including access for people with disabilities under the Marrakesh Treaty. She emphasized the need for fair regulations in the use of AI. “We believe technology should empower, not harm, its users,” she said during the discussion session.
The final session was delivered by Prof. Didin Nurul Rosyidin, Ph.D., who discussed the complexities of cyber ethics in the borderless digital space. He underlined challenges such as privacy violations, information manipulation, and cybercrime, which are increasingly prevalent in the digital age. Drawing from ethical theories such as deontology, consequentialism, social contract, and virtue ethics, he emphasized the importance of ethical awareness in technology use. He also touched on the commodification of ideas and the protection of intellectual property in digital spaces. According to him, the digital realm should not become a space for exploitation, but rather a fair and dignified environment for all users.
In conclusion, all speakers agreed that while the internet and AI open up many opportunities, their use must be guided by strong ethical principles. Librarians, academics, and digital practitioners play a crucial role in maintaining information integrity and protecting user rights amid rapid technological development. The International Office of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon hopes this event will serve as a starting point for more international collaborations and discussions. “We will continue to support events that bring global issues into a local context,” said Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D. He also expressed appreciation to all participants and speakers for their active involvement in the seminar.
The event not only served as a learning platform but also laid the foundation for promoting ethical practices and regulations in digital technology use across Indonesia and the ASEAN region. Participants responded positively, with many expressing appreciation for the timely and relevant nature of the seminar. The International Office UIN SSC is committed to continuing its innovation and contribution to global conversations on digital ethics and information management. Looking ahead, plans are underway to organize similar events with a focus on strengthening digital and AI literacy. With a spirit of collaboration and innovation, UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon is ready to take a leading role in digital ethics discussions at both national and international levels.
Author: Septiani Lu’luatul Fajriyah