SURAKARTA – The 2025–2030 board of the Central Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) was officially inaugurated at the National Press Monument in Surakarta, Central Java, on Saturday.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by the Minister of Communication and Digital along with the Deputy Minister, and was joined by hundreds of PWI board members from across Indonesia.

In her address, the Minister emphasized that this inauguration moment should not be merely ceremonial, but a valuable opportunity to reaffirm the importance of the press in upholding truth and national unity.

“This inauguration moment is expected not to be just ceremonial, but also a precious chance to reinforce the vital role of the press as a beacon of truth and national unity,” she stated.

She also stressed that the government safeguards press independence by not intervening in PWI’s reconciliation, which was successfully achieved democratically.

Unity as the Key

The elected Central PWI Chairman explained that choosing the Press Monument as the inauguration venue was the result of discussions with the Ministry of Communication and Digital.

“The Press Monument embodies the spirit of unity and struggle from the founders who established PWI. Therefore, it is very fitting to hold the inauguration here. Unity is the key for all of us,” he affirmed.

PWI Bekasi Raya Attends with Spirit of Loyalty

Present at the event, the Chairman of PWI Bekasi Raya led the delegation from Bekasi along with four other PWI Bekasi Raya members. They departed for Surakarta on Friday with great enthusiasm.

He emphasized that the presence of PWI Bekasi Raya at the Central PWI board inauguration demonstrates loyalty, integrity, and commitment to upholding the organization’s dignity.

“We are here to provide full support to the new Central PWI board. This reflects our loyalty and integrity within the organization, while also strengthening fellowship among members across Indonesia,” he said.

He added that PWI Bekasi Raya is ready to collaborate with Central PWI in implementing organizational programs, maintaining press independence, and advocating for journalist professionalism.

“Our presence in Surakarta marks a moment to reinforce this commitment. PWI is our shared home,” he concluded.

Indonesian Press Museum

The Indonesian Press Museum, located in Surakarta, Central Java, was established in 1978 to honor the nation’s first newspaper, “Slompret Melajoe,” and commemorate National Press Day. It chronicles the history of Indonesian journalism from the colonial era to the present day, showcasing printing equipment, historical newspapers, and photographs. The museum serves as an educational center highlighting the press’s vital role in the country’s struggle for independence and its development.

National Press Monument

The National Press Monument in Washington D.C., also known as the Journalists Memorial, honors American journalists who have died while performing their work. It was conceived in the 1980s and dedicated in 1996 by the Freedom Forum, a nonpartisan foundation. The monument serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of a free press and the vital role of journalism in a democratic society.

Press Monument

The Press Monument, also known as the Monument to the Freedom of the Press, is a memorial located in Mexico City. It was inaugurated in 1952 to honor Mexican journalists who have died in the line of duty and to symbolize the principle of a free press. The monument’s central column is topped by a bronze figure of a winged victory, representing the triumph of truth.