Jakarta – The Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) criticized the House of Representatives' newly approved press code of conduct, which set rules on how journalists should cover stories within the House building compound, saying that it would restrict journalists from carrying their journalistic duties.

The new rule would prohibit journalists from entering an ongoing meeting – even those labeled as "open meetings" – to cover stories. Instead, they would be asked to wait outside and be given a summary of the meeting.

The rule would also require journalist to apply for either oral or written permission before conducting interviews with lawmakers and cameramen would have to inform the House' secretary-general about camera placement a day before an event.

The AJI responded, through a press release sent on Saturday, that the ruling and accommodating policies should be revised. Commenting on this, House deputy speaker Pramono Anung said journalists had nothing to worry about because they would still be free to cover stories within the compound, just like they used to.

Head of the House's household affairs committee (BURT) Indrawati Sukardis said the new rule had been discussed with representatives from several journalist associations, including the press council. (nai/dic)