Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta.Indonesia’s Press Council called on the Presidential Press and Information Bureau (BPMI Setpres) to restore the revoked access of a CNN Indonesia journalist to cover palace activities, warning that the restriction undermines press freedom.

“The Press Council requests that the revoked access of the CNN Indonesia journalist be immediately reinstated so they can continue their journalistic duties at the Palace,” said Press Council chairman Komaruddin Hidayat in a written statement on Sunday (28/9/2025), as quoted by antaranews.com.

He urged BPMI to provide an explanation for the withdrawal of the press card to prevent obstruction of reporting inside the presidential environment. He reminded that press duties are guaranteed under the 1999 Press Law, which prohibits interference with journalistic work.

Komaruddin further stressed that incidents like this should not recur in order to maintain a healthy press climate in Indonesia, emphasizing that the media serves a public mandate in upholding democracy and accountability.

The revocation of reporter Diana Valencia’s ID after she asked President Prabowo Subianto a question on the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program outside the scheduled agenda. 

CNN Indonesia Chief Editor Titin Rosmasari confirmed BPMI officials collected the card directly from their office without formal explanation. CNN Indonesia has sought clarification from BPMI and the State Secretary, with a meeting set for Monday.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)