ANALISIS PERAN MODAL BUDAYA ALFIANSYAH KOMENG DALAM PEMILIHAN DPD RI MELALUI MEDIA SOSIAL DI PROVINSI JAWA BARAT PADA TAHUN 2024

Abstract

This research is motivated by the phenomenon of Alfiansyah Komeng’s election as a member of the Regional Representative Council of the Republic of Indonesia (DPD RI) from West Java Province in the 2024 General Election, in which he obtained a highly significant number of votes. This phenomenon is interesting to study as it demonstrates how a public figure from the entertainment industry is able to gain political legitimacy through the cultural capital he possesses. The concept of cultural capital used in this research refers to Pierre Bourdieu’s framework, namely embodied cultural capital, objectified cultural capital, and institutionalized cultural capital, all of which were formed throughout Komeng’s career in the entertainment world as well as through his social interactions with the public. The purpose of this study is to analyze the role of cultural capital in Alfiansyah Komeng’s electoral success using Pierre Bourdieu’s theory of cultural capital. This study employs a descriptive qualitative method, with data collected through literature review, documentation, interviews, and analysis of content and public comments on social media, particularly Komeng’s Instagram account and YouTube channel “Komeng Info.” The findings reveal that cultural capital had a significant influence on Komeng’s electoral victory. Embodied cultural capital is reflected in his communication style, humor, skills, and image as a humble figure close to the people. Objectified cultural capital is evident in his works and symbolic markers such as the “Uhuy” catchphrase, his distinctive ballot photo, and viral digital content on social media. Meanwhile, institutionalized cultural capital is manifested through public recognition of his clean reputation and consistent authenticity as a comedian, which was then translated into political legitimacy. These three forms of cultural capital complement each other in shaping an alternative political image that successfully attracted widespread support in West Java. In conclusion, cultural capital was the key factor in Alfiansyah Komeng’s election to the DPD RI in West Java in 2024. This success indicates that political legitimacy does not solely depend on economic capital or conventional political networks, but can also be built through the effective mobilization of cultural capital. The recommendation proposed is that Komeng should maintain his integrity, strengthen cultural symbols that represent his identity, and manage cultural capital as a means of promoting positive, inclusive, and constructive political education.