Journalists

From Media Indonesia

Journalists have lately become objects of torture by irresponsible persons. After Sukma (Jakarta), Udin (Yogyakarta) and Djaffar (Saudi Arabia), it was Gaudensius Mau's turn to be seriously tortured in Dili. It seems to me the journalistic profession is full of risks nowadays.

It is true that all professions are not without risks. Traders, bankers or doctors, for example, have to be prepared for all sorts of violence that may befall them. The more so for journalists, especially as the general election is only months away. Reporters should take extra care in presenting news, keep a neutral attitude and stick to objective reporting. Even being objective can bring about charges that a reporter has undermined a certain party that is in conflict with the other side.

There is a need for the journalists to present a balanced report. It is often the case that a reporter tends to quote the government official's statement only whenever a dispute exists between members of the society and the government. This is not fair, as far as I am concerned. Both sides should be equally represented in the news.

The Indonesian Journalists Association should place greater stress on the professionalism of its members, and not merely support the government's actions against organizations under its banner.

IAN KOSWARA

Bandung, West Java