SP-Indonesia,com, Indonesia – Dozens of journalists in Batam are no longer remaining silent. In the courtyard of the Batam City Council (DPRD), they took to the free forum to voice their concerns about the alleged pressure that is increasingly looming over press freedom, coinciding with the commemoration of World Press Freedom Day on Monday (May 3, 2026).
The action, initiated by the Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) of Batam City, was attended by various journalists and freedom of expression activists. They carried one main message: press freedom must be protected, and any form of pressure on journalistic work must not be tolerated.
During the event, participants delivered speeches on press freedom, performed theatrical performances, and even put on musical poetry depicting the realities and challenges facing journalists today. A statement of position was also read as a form of solidarity and commitment to continue safeguarding democratic space.
Several protesters highlighted alleged intimidation, theft of access to information, and informal pressure that could potentially undermine media independence. However, they did not name any specific parties and emphasized the importance of resolving the issues through legal mechanisms and applicable journalistic ethics.
“A free press is the foundation of democracy. If journalists work under pressure, the information reaching the public also risks being incomplete,” said one participant in their speech.
AJI Batam, in its statement, called on all parties, including the government, authorities, and the public, to respect journalistic work and guarantee press freedom as stipulated in the law.
The free forum took place in an orderly and peaceful manner, attracting the attention of passersby. It is hoped that this momentum will not only become an annual ceremony, but also a reminder that public freedom must be safeguarded together.
(Indonesian Reporter, Jim)
