'Antara' Bali has new chief

'Antara' Bali has new chief

DENPASAR, Bali: Antara chief editor Mohamad Sobary installed
on Friday Chandra Hamdani Noor as the head of the news agency's
bureau in Bali, replacing IGB Alit Wiratmaja.

In his remarks, Sobary criticized the national press for
abusing its freedom by allowing "a spill-over of anger and
revenge". The phenomenon, he said, has spread fear, anxiety and
threat.

He said the news agency, despite its link to the government,
would maintain its independence without having to disregard
social norms and press ethics.

"Professional journalism is reflected not only from the
courage and freedom it exercises in expressing its criticism, but
through the process of criticizing," Sobary said.

Antara was widely criticized in the past because of its lack
of independence from government control.

The news agency employs no less than 300 journalists across
the country, serving 70 dailies, television and radio stations.

Wiratmaja will be promoted as deputy managing editor of Antara
head office in Jakarta. (zen)