The provincial government's funding to journalists demonstrates official support to enhance the quality of the press in border regions, especially in Riau Islands Province, he noted.
"Journalists in border regions must have knowledge of foreign languages, as our region borders Malaysia and Singapore," Ahmad stated during a national seminar event regarding the press in border regions in Tanjungpinang, Riau Islands, on Wednesday.
The governor also urged journalists to apply for accreditation according to the national Press Council statutes to enhance their quality and professionalism.
Moreover, Ahmad confirmed that the provincial government will construct 76 base transceiver stations in the districts of Natuna, Anambas, Bintan, and Lingga to expand internet connectivity in remote and border regions.
The new connectivity installations will also bolster the journalists' duty to disseminate information to more residents, he affirmed.
"The installations would expand internet connectivity to blank spots and enhance effective communication," the governor remarked.
Ahmad also praised the roles played by the press to protect and defend national sovereignty and Riau Islands' territory from threats posed by foreign countries.
"The press disseminates information and is the government's mouthpiece in maintaining national sovereignty along with the people," he remarked.
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Translator: Ogen, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Sri Haryati
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