The Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) of Ternate City condemned alleged acts of intimidation against a number of journalists while carrying out their coverage of the BRI Super League match between Malut United FC and PSM Makassar at the Gelora Kie Raha Stadium.
The Chairman of the PWI Ternate City, Ramlan Harun assessed that this action could not be justified because it hindered journalistic work which is protected by law.
He emphasized that journalists covering the match had obtained official identity cards from the competition organizers.
According to Ramlan, journalistic activities have a clear legal framework under Law Number 40 of 1999 concerning the Press. Therefore, any form of obstruction of journalists' work is a violation of the law.
"The Ternate Journalists Association (PWI) strongly condemns any attempt to obstruct journalists from carrying out their journalistic duties. Anyone found to be obstructing the work of the press can be subject to a criminal penalty of two years in prison under the Press Law," said Ramlan.
Ramlan also highlighted allegations of verbal intimidation and the actions of individuals who asked journalists to delete their coverage in the form of photos and videos.
He considered this action to be a violation of press freedom.
He emphasized that journalistic products produced in the reporting process must not be deleted or forcibly censored by any party, because this is contrary to the principle of press freedom.
