President Prabowo Hails Journalists’ Role in Safeguarding Democracy on National Press Day 2026
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: President Prabowo Subianto has extended his greetings and appreciation to Indonesian journalists on National Press Day (HPN) 2026, underscoring the vital role of the press in safeguarding democracy and the public conscience.
The president’s message was conveyed by Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar during the National Press Day commemoration held in Serang on Monday.
Speaking on behalf of the head of state, Iskandar said President Prabowo, who was unable to attend due to another official engagement, holds deep respect for journalists nationwide and highly values their dedication and contribution to national development.
In his remarks, Iskandar highlighted rapid technological advances as both an opportunity and a challenge for journalism. He stressed that technology should function as a supporting tool rather than a replacement for human judgment and conscience, emphasizing that quality journalism continues to require a human touch to uphold ethics and remain faithful to the truth amid ongoing technological disruption.
He noted that the public would not accept journalism that relies excessively on automation, reaffirming the enduring importance of professional standards and editorial responsibility.
“We in the government are committed to ensuring that mass media remains part of the economic chain so that quality journalism can endure as a pillar of democracy,” Iskandar said, pledging support for publisher rights.
Iskandar also pointed to Indonesia’s position as Southeast Asia’s largest digital market, with more than 80 percent of its population of around 280 million connected to the internet. This, he said, makes national stability closely linked to information flows and media sentiment.
Against this backdrop, he called on the press to play a key role in safeguarding public reasoning by countering hoaxes and disinformation, while also helping the government communicate its policies clearly and responsibly.
To support national development, he said the media can contribute by disseminating accurate and reliable information on priority programs, including the Free Nutritious Meals initiative, People’s School, and the Red-and-White Village Cooperatives.
He concluded by urging the press, government institutions, and the public to work together to foster an enabling ecosystem for ethical and high-quality journalism in support of the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.
