"Amid the influx of information, especially from social media, the national press must further strengthen its position as a clearing house (of information), so that the public is not swayed by rumors and hoaxes," she noted in her statement here on Thursday.
Maharani spotlighted the critical role of the press amid the technological advancement era on National Press Day (HPN) commemorated every February 9. The speaker invited the community to support healthy and quality journalism for the progress of the national press.
Maharani underscored that the national press must have quality and independence, as the press is the fourth pillar of democracy.
"Healthy and quality journalism is also highly needed to face the political year. The public must be encouraged to think critically and substantively, so that the presence of the national press strengthens and makes the democracy healthy," she remarked.
The house speaker also encouraged the community to support the existence of a healthy and quality national press in several ways, such as by subscribing to mass media outlets that have been proven to follow sound journalism practices.
Maharani remarked that the subscription fee from readers can become a capital for media outlets to produce quality journalism products. She expressed optimism that the community would contribute to the progress of the national press.
"Many quality mass media (outlets) are currently facing challenges due to the heavy burden of production. Quite a few historic large media (outlets) have closed down or terminated their work relations with reliable members of the press. This must be a (matter of) concern," she pointed out.
The speaker encouraged all members of the press to uphold the values of journalism, as the press must continue to carry out its functions as a medium for information, education, entertainment, social control, and economic institutions, as mandated in Law Number 40 of 1999 regarding the Press.
Maharani is optimistic that all members of the press would continue to work professionally and responsibly by following the code of ethics for journalists and present journalism products that are healthy, of good quality, and with dignity.
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Translator: Imam Budilaksono, Raka Adji
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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