Bill on broadcasting sparks controversy

Bill on broadcasting sparks controversy

JAKARTA (JP): The bill on broadcasting which is being
discussed at the House of Representative has given rise to
controversy.

The controversial articles include those concerning the
ownership of radio stations and the requirement to relay programs
of the state-owned radio, RRI, said Purnomo, chief daily
executive of the Indonesian National Private Radio Association.

Chapter 9 of the 58-chapter bill on ownership prohibits the
establishment of private television and radio stations by any
organization which is based on politics, ideology or religion.

The owners of religion-based radio stations are especially
concerned that the government will use the chapter to control
them, even close them down.

Many religion-based radio stations in the country have
performed well over the past many years. In Jakarta alone they
include the Moslem At-Tahiriyah, Asy-Syafi'iyah; Protestant
Sinar Kasih, UKI, and Catholic Atmajaya.

"The word 'religion' in the chapter must be erased," said
legislator Tutty Alawiyah, the founder of Asy-Syafi'yah radio.

Director General of Radio, Television and Film Dewabrata has
told radio stations to not worry because the chapter is not
designed to prevent followers of any religion from setting up a
radio station which promotes religious aspirations.

The prohibition against the setting up of a radio station by a
religious organization, he says, means the radio may not be run
by a religious group but should be managed by a company instead.

"If the Indonesian Hindu Congress wants to have a TV (or
radio) station, it first has to set up a company to run it. The
station can focus on Hinduism in its programs as long as it
complies with the law which regulates the percentage of news,
entertainment, advertisements," he said.

The explanation on the chapter also says such enterprises are
subject to government supervision to prevent the owners from
abusing the programs for their own benefit.

Private radio stations are also concerned about Chapter 34,
which requires that they relay RRI programs, including RRI's news
bulletins. There are 13 RRI broadcasts subject to obligatory
relay.

"If possible, we want the number reduced to five times a day,"
said Purnomo.

Given the controversial chapters, Purnomo praises the bill for
allowing undertakings which are seen as necessary for radio
stations to be able to compete with television. The endeavors
include the use of advanced technology and the setting up of
networks among radio stations.

Until today, the use of advanced technology such as satellites
is indirectly prohibited by ministerial decree No: 39/1971.
Trijaya broadcast by satellite in 1994, but had to cancel
transmission at the government's order. According to the decree,
a private radio is a local enterprise, not a national one. Eddy
Noor, spokesman for the Ministry of Information, said that by
using satellite, Trijaya was heard nationwide which was in
conflict with its qualification as a local radio station. (jsk)