Ahmad Luthfi Pushes for Information Transparency in Central Java Provincial Government

Luthfi believes that information transparency constitutes a public right that everyone deserves to know. “I have ordered everything to be open; nothing should be hidden. It must be open and straightforward. Not only for journalists, but the public also has the right to ask. There is accountability for public information disclosure that must be known by society,” Luthfi said in his statement on Wednesday (11 March 2026).

He made this statement during a gathering and joint breaking of fast with journalists at Gradhika Bhakti Praja Building in Semarang on the previous day (10 March).

On this occasion, Luthfi also engaged members of the press to collaborate in developing Central Java whilst serving as a channel for information dissemination and public education. He stated that input and criticism from journalists and the public are needed in building Central Java.

“Media also has a role to play in development. The task of journalists is the same as ours (government), to educate and build society,” said Luthfi.

Meanwhile, the Head of the Central Java Press Union (PWI Jateng) Setiawan Hendra Kelana said journalists have the same duty as government: to advance public welfare and progress. This endeavour is undertaken through various means, such as articles, photographs, videos, and so forth.

“We have that obligation. In practising our profession, we have the right to obtain public information and the right to information from sources,” he stated.

Kelana added that journalists have methods to ensure information reaches the public comprehensively. He emphasised that information should indeed be transparent, but transparency does not mean completely uncensored. Information requires verification and cross-checking with stakeholders or partners.

“Collaboration between the provincial government and journalists is inseparable. When things are good, we report them as good; when there is criticism, we also communicate it by offering solutions. Media also becomes part of the solution,” he concluded.

For information, those present at the event included Central Java Regional Secretary (Sekda) Sumarno, Head of the Central Java Press Union (PWI Jateng) Setiawan Hendra Kelana, representatives of the Central Java Press Association, several heads of regional work units (OPD), and journalists.