Komdigi's Explanation Regarding the Blocking of Magdalene Content Related to the Andrie Yunus Case

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) has spoken out regarding the blocking of content from the press media Magdalene on Instagram. The content, blocked via geolocation, is suspected to discuss the acid attack case against activist and Deputy Coordinator of KontraS, Andrie Yunus. “At Komdigi, we certainly respect press freedom while also having the responsibility to keep our digital space healthy, accurate, and not misleading to the public,” stated Director General of Digital Space Supervision, Alexander Sabar, during a press conference at the Komdigi office in Jakarta on Tuesday (7/4/2026). Alex urged all parties to prioritise accuracy, verification, and the principle of prudence in presenting information to the public, especially on sensitive issues that could affect public trust. Magdalene’s content was reported for allegedly containing disinformation and provocative elements. “Regarding the reported Instagram account, it is known that the account does not publish as a media account, is not verified on Instagram, and is not registered with the Press Council,” Alex added. As a result, Komdigi carried out the blocking in accordance with applicable mechanisms. “Based on the analysis, the reported content uses certain narratives and titles that are deemed potentially to cause misleading perceptions in the public space, including raising unfounded allegations and potentially eroding trust in state institutions,” Alex explained. On Monday (6/4/2026), Magdalene, along with the Journalists’ Safety Committee (KKJ) and 11 civil society coalitions, issued a statement on the blocking. According to the post on the @magdaleneid account, the blocked content is the result of an investigation by the Advocacy Team for Democracy (TAUD) regarding the acid attack on activist Andrie Yunus. This investigative report was published on 30 March 2026. The content related to this investigation was blocked around early April 2026. Magdalene emphasised that it is a press company carrying out its duties and functions in accordance with Law No. 40 of 1999 on the Press. All forms of censorship, banning, or prohibition of broadcasting constitute legal violations as regulated in Article 4 Paragraph (2) of the Press Law. Furthermore, all objections or disputes related to the publication of journalistic products must be resolved through press mechanisms, such as the right of reply, right of correction, and resolution at the Press Council. “Komdigi or other parties do not have the authority to assess and take actions that hinder the fulfilment of press rights without going through those mechanisms,” as quoted from Magdalene’s official statement.