Jakarta, March 24, 2025 – The Europe Today: The Indonesian government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to press freedom following a disturbing terror incident targeting the newsroom of Tempo, where a severed pig’s head and dead rats were delivered.
Hasan Nasbi, Head of the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), emphasized that the government remains resolute in upholding press freedom as enshrined in Indonesia’s legal framework.
“There has been no change in the government’s commitment to press freedom,” Nasbi stated in a written message to journalists on Sunday.
He underscored that the government’s stance aligns with the 1945 Constitution, Law Number 40 of 1999 on the Press, and Law Number 39 of 1999 on Human Rights, all of which safeguard the right to information and freedom of expression.
“Article 14 and Article 23 of Law No. 39 on Human Rights guarantee similar rights,” he noted, stressing that press freedom is a fundamental expression of the people’s sovereignty, free from censorship or suppression.
While assuring that the government has not deviated from these principles, Nasbi also reminded media organizations of their duty to deliver accurate, precise, and truthful information, in line with the mandates of the Press Law.
“The media is also mandated by the Press Law to provide information that is accurate, precise, and correct,” he reiterated.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Manpower, Immanuel Ebenezer, called on law enforcement authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the threats against Tempo journalists, emphasizing the need for accountability and the protection of press freedom in Indonesia.
