Empowering Journalists through Capacity Building: Suara Anak Negeri News Hosts Insightful Online Media Webinar

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Biak, SuaraAnakNegeriNews.com – In an era where the credibility of journalism is increasingly scrutinized, the need for high-quality, ethical reporting is more urgent than ever. On January 27, 2025, Suara Anak Negeri News hosted an impactful Online Media Capacity Building Webinar, designed to equip journalists, media owners, and contributors with the essential skills and ethical frameworks needed for responsible and effective journalism.

The core message of the event, delivered by Paulus Laratamse, Executive Director of the Santa Lusia NGO, emphasized the vital importance of capacity building within the media sector. Laratmase explained that enhancing the skills of media professionals is not just a best practice, but a necessary responsibility for all involved in journalism—whether in traditional print media or the rapidly evolving digital space.

“Capacity building is not a luxury, but an obligation for everyone involved in the media,” Laratmase said. “It is imperative for those wishing to contribute meaningfully to journalism with integrity and expertise. We must continue to hone our skills to ensure we deliver accurate, reliable news.”

Laratmase further underscored the importance of adhering to Indonesia’s Press Law No. 40 of 1999, highlighting the dual responsibility of journalists to provide factual information while also nurturing the public’s right to know. “As journalists, we carry a great responsibility in ensuring that the information we deliver is trustworthy,” he stated. “At Suara Anak Negeri News, we don’t just report events—we strive to amplify the voices of those who have been marginalized. Our mission is to be the voice for the voiceless.”

During his speech, Laratamse also expressed hope for Indonesia’s future, urging media professionals to play a central role in the country’s ongoing development. “Our media work should not only inform but also guide the nation toward a brighter future,” he remarked. “Indonesia is a land of abundance, yet many of our fellow citizens remain excluded from the benefits of this wealth. It is our duty as journalists to shed light on these inequities and work towards a more inclusive and just society, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.”

Looking forward, Laratamse encouraged participants to remain steadfast in their commitment to improving the nation through responsible journalism. “We have a significant role to play in shaping the future of Indonesia,” he added. “Together, we can create a media landscape that fosters education, equality, and opportunity for all, while holding power to account and advocating for the vulnerable.”

In conclusion, Laratmase offered a hopeful message for future generations of journalists: “Your original and objective work will endure long after we are gone. While oral traditions may fade, written records stand the test of time. Verba volant, scripta manent – words fly, but written ones remain.”

Mastering the Craft of Journalism: A Path Toward Progress

The event also featured seasoned journalist Anto Narasoma, who offered valuable insights into the art of ethical journalism. Drawing on his extensive experience since 1984, Narasoma shared the principles that have guided his career and emphasized their importance in the evolving media landscape.

“Journalists must always adhere to the 5Ws and 1H – What, Who, When, Where, Why, and How,” Narasoma explained. “These fundamental questions ensure that the stories we tell are not only accurate but also meaningful, relevant, and fair.”

Narasoma also underscored the necessity of abiding by the Journalistic Code of Ethics (KEJ), stating, “Upholding ethical standards in journalism isn’t just important—it is a requirement for building public trust. It’s what ensures our work has lasting value and that our profession maintains its integrity.”

A Vision for the Future: Training and Growth

One of the most encouraging aspects of the webinar was the strong sense of hope and a shared vision for the future. Arsiya Oganara, a participant in the session, stressed the importance of continued professional development for journalists. “Training is crucial for refining our craft and enhancing our ability to communicate effectively with the public,” Oganara remarked. “I truly hope that there will be more opportunities for continued learning, as this will not only improve individual performance but also strengthen the media industry as a whole.”

Looking ahead, Oganara expressed her optimism about the future of journalism in Indonesia. “With more focused training programs, journalists across Indonesia will be able to raise the standard of media reporting, contributing to a stronger, more vibrant media landscape that can serve the needs of the public.”

The Online Media Capacity Building Webinar attracted 25 participants from across Indonesia, all eager to deepen their journalistic knowledge and contribute to the evolution of the country’s media scene. The event also featured prominent figures from the editorial team, including Yusuf Achmad, Anto Narasoma, and Leni Marlina. Supporting partners included Starcom Indonesia (Starmoonsun Edupreneur Community Indonesia), Poetry-Pen International Community, PPIPM-Indonesia (Poetry Community of Indonesian Society’s Inspiration), WCLC (World Children’s Literature Community), and SMK Santren Al Hasan Surabaya.

A Unified Vision for Indonesia’s Media Future

As the webinar concluded, the shared spirit of hope for the future was palpable. Participants expressed their commitment to applying the knowledge they had gained to improve both their work and the media environment at large. There was a collective sense of responsibility and optimism about the direction in which Indonesia’s media industry is heading.

Laratamse’s closing words encapsulated the hope for the future of journalism in Indonesia: “Together, we have the power to amplify voices that have long been unheard. We can ensure that every story, every individual, is valued and shared. The work we do today will shape the media landscape for tomorrow, creating a better, more inclusive society for all.”

*Final Thoughts: Building a Legacy of Integrity*

The Online Media Capacity Building Webinar by Suara Anak Negeri News marks an important step in empowering journalists across Indonesia to rise to the challenges of the modern media landscape. With an emphasis on training, ethical standards, and a shared vision for the future, the event highlighted the crucial role of media professionals in shaping a more just and informed society. As the country continues to evolve, the commitment to excellence in journalism will remain vital in ensuring that the voices of all Indonesians are heard and valued.