Media criticized for causing unrest

JAKARTA (JP): Observers rapped the national media over its knuckles over the weekend, saying that it tended to trigger unrest and lacked accuracy.

Mass communication expert Alwi Dahlan said that while the country was battling the economic crisis, the media should have made reports that calmed the public, which was vulnerable to rumors and other baseless information.

"When it comes to riots, for example, the media must be able to describe the situation or background which caused the rampage, otherwise the news will be misleading," Alwi was quoted by Antara as saying.

Political scientist Juwono Sudarsono said that journalists pressed for time in their rivalry for exclusives frequently made inaccurate reports which served only to confuse the public.

Both Juwono and Alwi were evaluating the media's performance prior to National Press Day which falls today. A reception at the State Palace will cap off the celebration.

Alwi said that in the wake of unfounded rumors, the media should provide facts and data to shape public opinion and help the government maintain order.

"It seems to me that people have paid too great a psychological cost in the current economic adversity. They fall prey to price hikes incited by news or analysis which are based on assumptions only," Alwi, who is also chief of the propagation body of Pancasila state ideology, said.

Alwi defended the security authorities for opting not to talk to the media after riots.

"They may have some reasons, for instance, to prevent people from being restless or adversely affected by the news."

He called on the country's journalists to select only eligible news.

"But it all depends on the quality and conscience of individual journalist."

Juwono said it was normal for the media community to compete with one another for fresh news, but they rarely made room for people suffering from the news.

"The media cannot escape from certain interests and influence. But, whatever interests are attached to the news publication, the media must cover both sides, be comprehensive and satisfying in many respects," Juwono, who is a member of the honorary council of the Association of Indonesian Journalists, said.

"Balanced and accurate stories are important because common sense must overcome emotions."

A senior journalist braced for National Press Day by airing grievances about the skyrocketing price of newsprint.

Mahfudin Nigara, chief editor of the newly relaunched Berita Buana daily, urged Saturday the government to help the national media.

"The media has always been told to run news on development programs. Now it's the government's turn to help the media," Mahfudin said.

He said the current price of newsprint, which has reached Rp 7,000 (78 U.S. cents) per kilogram compared to Rp 1,300 last year, was unfair.

Newsprint producers have blamed the price hike on imported raw materials which must be paid for in U.S. dollar.

"It's illogical if raw materials, which cover less than 70 percent of newsprint, have caused a 350 percent increase," Mahfudin complained.

Berita Buana, now managed by Bakrie Group, is the first daily to be issued at noon. (amd)