Rano Karno Invites Press to Participate in 2026 Mohammad Hoesni Thamrin Journalism Awards

Jakarta Deputy Governor Rano Karno has expressed appreciation for Bank Jakarta’s support of the 2026 Mohammad Hoesni Thamrin (MHT) Journalism Awards. He stated that the collaboration strengthens synergy between the government, the banking world, and the press in enhancing public literacy while welcoming the commemoration of Jakarta’s five centuries in 2027. He emphasised that the MHT Journalism Awards, which have been held for more than five decades, provide a space for journalists to produce quality work that records the dynamics and development of Jakarta. Rano invited journalists to take advantage of the registration period, which remains open until 31 July 2026, by submitting their best work, particularly in the ‘Welcoming 5 Centuries of Jakarta’ and ‘Bank Jakarta Literacy’ categories. ‘There is still time until 31 July 2026 to submit your best work. Make the momentum towards five centuries of Jakarta an inspiration to produce quality journalism that benefits society,’ Rano said in a statement on Thursday (16/7). He explained that the Welcoming 5 Centuries of Jakarta category is expected to produce works documenting the journey, transformation, and hopes for the capital as it approaches its 500th anniversary. Meanwhile, the Bank Jakarta Literacy category is aimed at increasing public understanding of the transformation and contribution of Bank Jakarta in strengthening the regional economic ecosystem. Rano also supported the plan by PWI Jaya to expand the MHT Journalism Awards in 2027 to coincide with the series of commemorations for Jakarta’s five centuries. ‘The press has an important role in documenting history as well as overseeing Jakarta’s future development,’ he said. PWI Jaya Chairman Kesit Budi Handoyo expressed appreciation for the Jakarta Provincial Government’s support for the 2026 MHT Journalism Awards. He noted that the support encourages PWI Jaya to continue improving the quality of the journalism award event, which has become a tradition in Jakarta. Kesit added that the special Bank Jakarta Literacy category is a positive step to encourage journalistic work that not only meets professional standards but also educates the public about the financial services sector. He stated that the media has a strategic role in conveying accurate information regarding innovation, services, digital transformation, and Bank Jakarta’s contribution to driving regional economic growth and strengthening micro, small, and medium enterprises.