The Political Economy of the News Program Kompas Petang on Kompas TV: An Analysis of Commodification, Spatialization, and Structuration

Abstract

Background: The political economy of media provides a conceptual framework to understand how economic and political factors shape the production, distribution, and consumption of media. Aims: This study aims to examine how the aspects of commodification, spatialization, and structuration—within the perspective of Political Economy of Media—play a role in the management and presentation of the Kompas Petang news program on Kompas TV, as well as how ideological and commercial values interact within it. Study Design: This research employs a qualitative approach using a case study design. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Kompas Petang editorial office, Kompas TV, Jakarta, from March to November 2024. Methodology: Data collection was carried out through participant observation, in-depth interviews with editorial and management teams, and internal documentation. Research informants included journalists, news producers, marketing teams, and media and communication experts. Data analysis was conducted interactively using the Miles and Huberman model, which involves data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. Results: The findings indicate that commodification in Kompas Petang is reflected in the integrative strategy between the editorial and marketing teams to achieve advertising revenue targets, with the highest recorded revenue reaching IDR 1.6 billion in April 2024. Spatialization is implemented through the application of a television network concept targeting Second Cities and optimising content distribution across digital platforms. Media structuration is marked by the influence of philosophical values inherited from Jakob Oetama, which continue to shape editorial policy-making despite market pressures and inter-media competition. Conclusion: The three aspects of the political economy of media—commodification, spatialization, and structuration—synergistically shape the editorial work system of Kompas Petang, bridging journalistic idealism and media capitalisation demands. This study underscores the importance of balancing media independence with business strategies in today’s competitive digital era.