Dahlan Iskan, a prominent figure in Indonesian media and business, has a long and intertwined history with Detik Finance, a leading Indonesian online financial news portal. While not the founder, his influence on Detik.com, the parent company of Detik Finance, is undeniable and shaped its trajectory.
Dahlan Iskan’s connection to Detik began in the early 2000s. He acquired Detik.com through his Jawa Pos Group, transforming it from a struggling online news platform into a powerful and influential media outlet. His entrepreneurial spirit and vision were instrumental in Detik’s growth. He understood the potential of online news and the importance of speed and accessibility in reaching a wider audience. He injected capital, restructured the organization, and prioritized breaking news and in-depth analysis.
Under his leadership, Detik Finance, as a part of Detik.com, flourished. Dahlan Iskan’s background in business, particularly his success in revitalizing state-owned electricity company PLN, brought credibility and a practical perspective to the financial news coverage. Detik Finance became known for its timely and insightful reporting on the Indonesian economy, markets, and corporate affairs. The platform provided valuable information to investors, business professionals, and the general public interested in financial matters.
Dahlan Iskan’s philosophy of “cepat, akurat, berimbang” (fast, accurate, balanced) permeated Detik’s editorial practices, including Detik Finance. This emphasis on journalistic integrity and providing multiple perspectives helped establish Detik Finance as a trusted source of financial news in Indonesia. While speed was crucial, he also stressed the importance of verification and fairness in reporting, aiming for objective journalism.
Beyond business acumen, Dahlan Iskan’s personality also influenced Detik. He was known for his hands-on approach and his willingness to take risks. This fostered a culture of innovation and experimentation within the company. He encouraged his team to explore new technologies and approaches to deliver news more effectively. His direct involvement and accessibility motivated the employees and ensured the company remained agile and responsive to the changing media landscape.
Although Dahlan Iskan eventually sold Detik.com to Para Group, owned by Chairul Tanjung, his impact remains significant. He laid the foundation for Detik Finance’s success, establishing its reputation as a reliable and comprehensive source of financial information. His leadership and vision transformed Detik from a fledgling startup into a dominant force in the Indonesian online media landscape, and Detik Finance continues to benefit from the principles and values he instilled during his tenure.