Author: Prof. Dr. Sutan Nasomal
The increasing age of National Press Day (HPN) has made the press increasingly adept at delivering news to the world, both domestically and internationally, in the broadest sense.
All members of the press must remain committed to the press’s role as the fourth pillar of democracy. Amidst information disruption, this momentum is not merely ceremonial, but rather a reaffirmation of the dignity of the journalistic profession, grounded in law.
The Press as an Instrument of Public Oversight
In accordance with the mandate of Law Number 40 of 1999 concerning the Press, Article 3 paragraph (1) affirms that the national press functions as a medium for information, education, entertainment, and social control.
The National Editor-in-Chief must emphasize that transparency is key. We not only convey news, but also ensure that every piece of information has a strong basis for verification, as stipulated in Article 6 of the Press Law, which states that the national press plays a role in developing public opinion based on precise, accurate, and truthful information.
Implementation of Crucial Articles in Journalism
In carrying out their duties, the Editor-in-Chief must ensure that all media personnel comply with applicable regulations to protect the public’s rights:
Press Freedom & Legal Protection (Article 4):
Guaranteeing press freedom as a fundamental right of citizens. In carrying out their profession, journalists receive legal protection.
Journalistic Code of Ethics (Article 7 paragraph 2):
Journalists are obliged to adhere to the Journalistic Code of Ethics (KEJ). This includes the principles of independence, producing accurate, balanced news, and not acting in bad faith.
Right of Objection, Right of Reply, and Right of Correction:
In accordance with Article 1, numbers 11 and 12, we are committed to providing space for the public to correct erroneous information as a form of public accountability.
Education and Literacy Mission in 2026
Facing the challenges of 2026, National Press Day (HPN) serves as a starting point for pursuing three main missions:
Digital Literacy Education: Combating hoaxes within the framework of the Electronic Information and Transactions (ITE) Law, which aligns with journalistic values, so that the public does not fall prey to disinformation.
Information Sovereignty: Encouraging the public to return to verified news sources (Mainstream Media) to maintain social stability and national information sovereignty.
Journalist Professionalism: Prioritizing journalist competence through certification (UKW) to maintain reporting standards that meet the public’s expectations.
Press freedom is not unlimited, but rather freedom with responsibility to the public and God Almighty.
“Happy National Press Day, February 9, 2026. Long live the Indonesian Press, Guardian of Truth, Building the Nation with Ethics and Integrity. Press Day belongs not to one organization, but to all journalists.”
National Press Day was established through Presidential Decree (Keppres) Number 5 of 1985, which coincides with the anniversary of the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI). May togetherness, solidarity, and camaraderie be fostered among fellow journalists, especially among PWI members, and in general across various journalistic organizations.**
Jakarta, February 8, 2026
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