Dewi Nurita, Jakarta – In the commemoration of the National Press Day on Tuesday, February 9, Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung said the press freedom must be maintained as stipulated in Law No. 40/1999.

The freedom of the press, Pramono underlined, is the main pillar to keep democracy going in this democratic country.

"For the government, press freedom, criticism, and suggestions are herbal medicine which strengthen the government. We need open harsh criticism because with that the government will be more focused," said Pramono in a video uploaded on the official website of the Cabinet Secretary on Tuesday, February 9.

However, he reminded that such freedom should be implemented properly, especially amidst rampant hoaxes circulating on social media.

"We need literacy and education that this freedom must be exercising properly. Let's not exercise it with unproductive things," Pramono said.

A strong press with integrity, he went on, must be achieved in order to create Indonesia as a victorious nation.

Pramono further called on all members of the press to keep maintaining the integrity and upholding truths in carrying out their duties. He believed that with the media control function of the press, the government and the people could better practice democracy, all for the press freedom.

Source: https://en.tempo.co/read/1431123/palace-press-freedom-must-be-maintained-govt-needs-harsh-criticis