Press Should Give Constructive Criticism: President

Jakarta (Antara) -- The press should give constructive criticism and not pass remarks that can encourage a sense of pessimism, President Joko Widodo stated. "Mass media can be sharp, but should still educate. Media can bite, but should not hurt anyone," the president said while attending the 77th anniversary celebrations of Indonesia's national news agency, Antara, here on Thursday night. The head of state further noted that the press, in line with an atmosphere of openness, can make proclamations on anyone, but these should be accompanied by ways to resolve problems. "Their remarks may be sharp, but they must also educate people. This is because the media as an industry should see what the market needs. If the market needs sensational news, the media should deliver sensational news. However, it can also enlighten and educate the public," Jokowi noted. The president also explained that the media should boost optimism in the community through written news. "If we make an effort towards it, we can build optimism among Indonesian people," he remarked. Furthermore, President Joko Widodo was conferred the Antara Achievement Award during the commemoration of the 77th anniversary of Indonesia's national news agency, Antara, on Thursday night. President Joko Widodo was accompanied by Communication and Information Technology Minister Rudiantara while receiving the Antara Achievement Award. It was handed to him by President Director of Antara Saiful Hadi. A number of other figures were also awarded Antara achievement awards. The six regional heads who received Antara achievement awards were acting governor of Banten Rano Karno, Governor of East Java Soekarwo, Mayor of Lhokseumawe Suaidi Yahya, Mayor of Bandar Lampung Herman, Mayor of Serang Haerul Jaman, and Mayor of Ambon Richard Louhenapessy. Four partner agencies of Antara, Thomson-Reuters, AFP, Bloomberg and Bernama, were also given the award. That the figure can inspire and motivate the community as well as provide the best efforts for the nation were set as the criteria for the award. (*)