The press must be a platform for people to verify the news circulating among the publicSurabaya, E Java (ANTARA) - Speaker of the Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) AA LaNyalla Mahmud Mattalitti has said he hopes the commemoration of the 2022 National Press Day will push the press industry to strengthen national unity.
"The press should be able to build communication that can unite the nation, erase the current social polarization, and eliminate divisive narratives," he said in a press release on Monday.
High social polarization and hoaxes can segregate the nation, he added. Thus, the press is expected to be able to counteract them, he continued.
Hoaxes can be countered by presenting credible, accurate, useful, and quality information in the midst of technological developments, the speaker said.
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"The press must be a platform for people to verify the news circulating among the public. Although social media can also provide information; however, sometimes the sources are not credible and the data are not accurate," he added.
The press should be more ideal, trustworthy, reliable, professional, and accountable, he said.
“Hence, the press' identity must be clear and the journalists must be able to be responsible for their work,” he added.
The peak event of the commemoration of the 2022 National Press Day will be held in Kendari city, Southeast Sulawesi province on February 9, 2022.
President Joko Widodo is scheduled to attend the event virtually.
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The commemoration will feature a series of events, including an exhibition on the potential of regional micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), a press exhibition, and a culinary festival.
A parade of Indramayu (West Java), Sumba (East Nusa Tengga), Magetan (East Java), and Buton (Southeast Sulawesi) cultural arts, as well as a poetry competition, will also be organized.
In addition, a mass media convention, Adinegoro Journalism Award offline discussion, social activities, as well as national seminars on energy, tourism, and economic recovery will be held as part of the event.
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Translator: Fiqih Arfani, Uyu Liman
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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