"As a reliable, actual, and factual reference to the news, we hope that Antara will maintain its independence. Especially before the 2019 political year, information and news from Antara are expected to support the creation of peaceful elections," he said in Purwokerto, Banyumas District, Central Java, Thursday .
He acknowledged that Antara has been 81 years in carrying out active role in educating the nation`s life through various information and news products even though the agency now tunrs into a state-owned enterprise (BUMN) under the name of Public Company (Perum) LKBN Antara.
However, he said, the role needed to be increased so that the strategic position of Antara as a news agency will be stronger and it remains a source of reliable news.
He also hoped that Antara could counter hoax and fake news spreading ahead of the simultaneous legislative and presindential elections to be held on April 17, 2019.
"In relation to preparatory reporting ahead of the 2019 Election, Antara has been good and balanced in reporting it, so that it does not confuse the public," he said.
Furthermore, Imam said that LKBN Antara news was presented in a language that was pleasant to read, polite, and easily understood by readers.
Antara News Agency was established in Jakarta on December 13, 1937 by Adam Malik, Albert M Sipahoetar, Pandu Kartawiguna, and Sumanang. Antara News Agency has witnessed the history of the Indonesian independence movement to date.
Antara celebrated its 81st anniversary on Thursday.
Reporting by Sumarwoto, Eliswan
Reporter: Antara
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
Copyright © ANTARA 2018
