Press Council Declares Five Missing Journalists as Press Heroes

The Press Council has stated that five journalists who went missing while covering activities at Mount Anak Krakatau are press heroes, noting that the incident serves as a vital reminder of the importance of coordinating with the government and local officials when working in dangerous areas.

Speaking in Jakarta on Monday, the Chairman of the Press Council, Komarudin Hidayat, stated that the five journalists are heroes of the press world because of their efforts to provide the best photography for the public.

“We usually enjoy portraits and images, but sometimes we forget the struggle involved in obtaining them. When such a tragedy occurs, we realise how costly and difficult it is to find and capture the best images,” said Komarudin following a joint prayer session for the missing journalists.

He noted that this event serves as a reminder for media organisations planning coverage in dangerous regions to coordinate closely with local authorities. Furthermore, he stressed that media executives should pay close attention to such matters, ensuring that companies provide special support to the families left behind in the event of such tragedies.

During the event, he expressed appreciation to all parties involved in the ongoing search efforts for the five journalists. “The Press Council offers its condolences to the families left behind. We are holding this joint prayer and reflection session. Our prayers are that they return safely,” he added.

Similarly, the Chairman of the Indonesian Press Photographers Association (PWI), Dwi Pambudo, expressed deep sorrow over the disappearance of the five journalists and three crew members. He stated that Indonesian press photographers remain united with the community in conducting independent search efforts.

He remarked that the dedication of the missing journalists while covering the story is a form of struggle for the nation in accordance with the Law. He noted that the works of these journalists serve as the spearhead for uncovering facts and current events, expressing hope that such an incident does not happen again and that the journalists can return to their families, leaving behind an enduring legacy.