Journalists Are My Friends, President Jokowi Says

President Jokowi at the celebration of National Press Day on Saturday (8/2), in Banjarmasin City, South Kalimantan province. (Photo: Ibrahim/PR)

Journalists are my friends and they are always in my heart and always follow me wherever I go, President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo said.

“Let me extend a happy national happy press day to all journalists in Indonesia wherever you are,” President Jokowi said during the National Press Celebration in Banjarbaru, Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan province, Saturday (8/2).

The Head of State also joked that journalists often made him nervous, adding that he made a point of attending the celebration despite being scheduled to leave for Canberra the same day. The President also said journalists accompanied him in most of his presidential trips, more than even some of his Ministers.

On the occasion, the President also thanked journalists who have consistently conveyed the Government’s messages to the public, as well as give supports and criticism to the Government. The President also expressed appreciation for the role of journalists as one of the pillar of democracy during last year’s legislative and presidential election.

“Journalists played a pivotal role in encouraging public participation during election and in maintaining national security,” President Jokowi said, adding that he needs more support from journalists for the upcoming regional election to be held in 270 regencies/cities across Indonesia.

Other than political agenda, the President also asked the journalists’ support in spreading correct information and avoiding public anxiety, including regarding the spread of coronavirus recently.

The state, the President continued, urgently needs the presence of journalists with a clear perspective who will fight against false information, hoaxes, hatred, and slander that can potentially threatening democracy.

News should contain positive contents that will boost positivity and optimism, he added.

“Because a healthy society is a society that is surrounded only by positive information,” the President said. (HIM/EN)

Translated by: Estu Widyamurti
Reviewed by: M. Ersan Pamungkas