Ideological Representation in Indonesian Online Media: A Critical Discourse Analysis of Inara Rusli’s Scandal Coverage

Abstract

Celebrity scandals in Indonesian online media are frequently framed through morality, gender, privacy, and family relations. Limited studies have examined these representations by connecting textual strategies with social cognition and the broader context of digital journalism. This study examines the ideological representation of the alleged infidelity and secret marriage involving Inara Rusli and Insanul Fahmi in CNN Indonesia, Detik.com, and Inilah.com. Using a qualitative approach, the study applies Teun A. van Dijk’s Critical Discourse Analysis through text, social cognition, and social context. The findings reveal different discursive orientations. CNN Indonesia emphasizes legal procedures and privacy, Detik.com foregrounds clarification and emotional responses, while Inilah.com highlights relationship conflict, family, religious legitimacy, and Insanul’s perspective. These differences reflect editorial orientations, audience considerations, digital engagement pressures, and gendered moral norms. The study demonstrates that online news does not merely report events but constructs their meaning through linguistic choices, information selection, and ideological framing.