FWK Criticizes Ahmad Qodari for Embracing Homeless Media: Don't Compare Homeless Media with the Press

JAKARTA - The National Journalists Forum or FWK criticized the policy of the Head of the Government Communication Agency, Ahmad Qodari, which was considered to open space for homeless media in the government's communication strategy.

FWK coordinator Raja Parlindungan Pane said the move risked blurring the line between professional journalism and digital channels that have no editorial accountability.

According to Raja, the government should strengthen a healthy press ecosystem, not give a stage to media that is unclear about its legal entity, editorial structure, and ethical standards.

"The press has rules, codes of conduct, verification mechanisms, and clear legal responsibilities. When the government embraces homeless media without clear parameters, it has the potential to undermine the national press order," Raja said in a statement in Jakarta, Thursday, May 7, 2026.

Raja assessed that the policy could make the public confused about distinguishing journalistic products from social media content. In fact, the press has a verification process, editorial responsibility, and correction mechanisms.

He also reminded the Press Law had regulated the function and position of the press in democracy. Therefore, the government is asked not to mix the press company with digital content creators who are not subject to journalistic standards.

"If all are considered the press, then where is the position of the press company which has been carrying out social control functions professionally and complying with journalistic ethics? The state should not remove the dignity of the profession of journalists," he said.

FWK asked the Government Communication Agency to create clear parameters in public communication partnerships. The parties involved, said Raja, must have the legality of the press company, editorial structure, and be subject to the journalistic code of ethics.

Raja said the development of digital media cannot be avoided. However, press professionalism must remain the basis for healthy and credible public communication.