Central Information Commission Emphasises Urgency of Revising Public Information Disclosure Law

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Chairman of the Central Information Commission Donny Yoesgiantoro has emphasised that revising Law No. 14 of 2008 on Public Information Disclosure (UU KIP) is an urgent requirement amid changes in governance structures and the digitalisation of information. “This revision is expected not only to strengthen guarantees of the public’s right to public information but also to foster higher-quality information service standards, enhance the professionalism of public bodies, and reinforce the role of relevant institutions in overseeing information openness,” Donny stated during a media briefing at the Central Information Commission (KI) Auditorium in Jakarta on Monday. Donny noted that the briefing, attended by government representatives, academics, and civil society, aimed to provide a comprehensive perspective on the urgency, policy direction, and potential risks in revising the UU KIP. The Central Information Commission also highlighted the importance of accurate and balanced media reporting in steering this strategic issue. On the same occasion, Central Information Commission Commissioner Gede Narayana, who leads the revision process for the Public Information Disclosure Law, stated that the substance of the event was to emphasise that this Bill is highly important and strategic. “The state needs public information openness; the KIP Bill is necessary due to the era’s civilisation, developments, and the need for better governance. We at the Central Information Commission will not cease advocating and voicing this,” he said. Academic Dr John Fresly explained that the direction of the UU KIP revision is to position information openness as a strategic instrument in strengthening state governance. “The UU KIP revision is directed to place information openness as a strategic instrument in strengthening democratic, participatory state governance oriented towards public rights protection,” he said. On the other hand, Indonesia Corruption Watch (ICW) warned that the UU KIP revision also holds potential for regression if not formulated carefully. ICW stated there is a risk of shifting from the principle of maximum openness to more conditional openness. “There is a need for revision, but also concerns. The question is whether this revision will strengthen public rights or legitimise secrecy? The UU KIP revision must ensure that access to information remains a right, not a restricted privilege,” said Almas Sjafrina, ICW representative. In line with this, the Central Information Commission reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the UU KIP revision remains focused on strengthening public rights. The Central Information Commission also encourages the revision process to be conducted transparently, participatorily, and with meaningful public involvement. The UU KIP revision is hoped to be a forward step in strengthening democracy and information openness in Indonesia, rather than becoming an instrument for limiting public rights.