Home
← Back to Home

Is Detik.com Fake News or Legit? Bias, Accuracy, and Source Transparency

3 min read
Last Updated: January 2026

Detik.com Overview and Political Bias

Critics often characterize Detik.com as prioritizing speed over depth, leading to claims of sensationalism and clickbait headlines. Analysts suggest its coverage frequently aligns with mainstream national interests. While some describe its reporting as populist, others argue its 'breaking news' model occasionally sacrifices nuance for rapid audience engagement and traffic.

Standpoint Assessment
Overall political leaning Center
Estimated number of readers 185,000,000
Israel support Pro-Palestine (aligns with Indonesian national consensus)
Use of loaded / emotional language Medium
Target Audience Mass market

Detik.com History

Launched in July 1998 by Budiono Darsono and associates, Detik.com revolutionized Indonesian media by focusing on instant internet updates rather than daily print. Emerging post-Suharto, it successfully navigated the digital transition, becoming Indonesia’s most-visited news portal through its pioneering real-time reporting style that changed the local media landscape.

World News Map

News Today interactive world news map

Who owns Detik.com?

Detik.com is owned by CT Corp, a major Indonesian conglomerate led by billionaire Chairul Tanjung. Acquired in 2011 via Trans Media for approximately $60 million, the site is primarily funded through digital advertising revenue and corporate synergies within the parent group’s extensive media, retail, and financial holdings.

Similar newspapers