Editors' Forum Urges Hotman Paris to Respect Journalistic Profession

The Indonesian Editors’ Forum (Forum Pemred) has expressed regret over the attitude and manner of lawyer Hotman Paris Hutapea in responding to journalists’ questions during a press conference at the Attorney General’s Office in Jakarta on Friday (17/7/2026).

In a press statement received on Sunday (19/7/2026), Forum Pemred Chair Retno Pinasti stated that Hotman Paris’s choice of words and demeanour in responding to journalists’ questions were highly unprofessional and demeaned the journalistic profession, which is carrying out its duties under the mandate of Press Law No. 40 of 1999.

‘Asking questions is a journalist’s way of confirming and gathering information from sources as part of a professional journalistic process and the discipline of verification protected by law,’ Retno said.

She noted that while sources have the right not to answer questions, it is inappropriate to respond in a manner that belittles the profession, either through word choice or an arrogant attitude that avoids addressing the substance of the question.

Retno stressed that journalistic work in Indonesia is officially protected by Law No. 40 of 1999 on the Press. The law explicitly states that journalists are entitled to legal protection in carrying out their profession, including the right to refuse, freedom from censorship, and protection from acts of intimidation. Responding to journalists’ questions in an intimidating manner, whether verbally or non-verbally, contradicts the spirit of press freedom.

The Forum Pemred urged all parties to respect press freedom by honouring each other’s professions and upholding their respective competencies and professional ethics. Retno added that the forum is committed to advocating for the safety and dignity of journalists in carrying out their journalistic duties, including opposing those who deliberately demean the profession or obstruct journalistic work.