ANTARA CEO believes mainstream media still holds competitive edge

Jakarta (ANTARA) -

The CEO of Perum LKBN ANTARA, Benny Siga Butarbutar, believes that mainstream media still possesses a competitive edge amid shifts in public information consumption patterns increasingly dominated by digital platforms and social media.

“Mainstream media has its own competitive advantage. Its edge lies in being more recognised and better able to serve as a mirror for our society’s image,” Benny said after attending the Fun Walk event for World Press Freedom Day 2026 at the Press Council Building in Jakarta on Sunday.

According to him, the torrent of digital information poses a challenge for the media industry to uphold professionalism and public trust.

He stated that society today requires information that aids in making accurate decisions, both for individuals and their communities.

“At its core, society wants information that enables decisions for themselves, their communities, and the nation, truly elevating their dignity—this is where the press plays a crucial role,” he remarked.

“Mainstream media, online media, and new media all share the same aim: to contribute to enlightening the nation’s life,” he added.

He further noted that press freedom must be accompanied by social responsibility so that media continues to provide benefits amid information disruptions.

Meanwhile, on the same occasion, Press Council Chairman Komaruddin Hidayat emphasised that press freedom must be paired with responsibility to protect society from disinformation.

“Freedom is a human right. But remember that society also wants to be freed from disinformation,” Komaruddin said.

He explained that the press has the freedom to convey information but must still safeguard society from becoming victims of misleading information.

“The press is free to convey information, but while doing so, it must protect society so they do not become victims of disinformation,” he stated.