Purbalingga – December 21, 2025 | PNN NEWS – In the digital era, mainstream mass media increasingly utilize social media platforms as primary channels for information distribution. Although content is often presented in short and concise formats, posts published through official media accounts are not merely ordinary social media uploads. Instead, they are an integral part of journalistic products and carry legal and ethical consequences.
This was emphasized by HM Abdus Syukur, a certified examiner for the Journalist Competency Test (UKW). He stressed that all information disseminated through official social media accounts of mass media remains fully subject to Indonesia’s Press Law.
“Any information published on official social media accounts of mass media is considered part of a journalistic product. If an error occurs, the applicable mechanisms are the right of reply and the right of correction, as regulated under Law Number 40 of 1999 on the Press,” he stated.
Equal Legal Standing with Print and Online Media
This clarification places official social media accounts of mass media on equal footing with print and online news platforms. As such, they are bound by fundamental journalistic principles, including accuracy, balance, verification, and editorial responsibility.
A similar view was expressed by former Deputy Chief of the Indonesian National Police, Agus Andrianto. He affirmed that journalistic products produced by legally established and verified press companies cannot be criminalized.
“Journalistic products legally produced by registered press companies cannot be prosecuted under criminal law or charged under Law Number 11 of 2018 on Electronic Information and Transactions (ITE Law),” he said.
Dispute Resolution Through Press Mechanisms
Accordingly, disputes arising from journalistic reporting must not be resolved through criminal proceedings. Instead, they should follow press mechanisms such as the right of reply, right of correction, and mediation through the Press Council, as mandated by the Press Law and the Journalistic Code of Ethics.
Despite the speed and broad reach offered by social media, fundamental journalistic standards must never be compromised. Every piece of information must undergo proper verification, be presented in a balanced manner, and reflect editorial accountability. When inaccuracies occur, media outlets are obligated to issue corrections openly and proportionally to maintain public trust.
Distinguishing Press Law and ITE Law
Understanding the distinction between legal frameworks is crucial. Official journalistic content published by verified media organizations falls under the protection of the Press Law. However, content that is misleading, taken out of journalistic context, or contains personal attacks may fall under the scope of the ITE Law.
Official social media accounts of mass media should not be viewed merely as promotional tools. They function as extensions of the newsroom itself. Through the Press Law, the state provides legal protection to ensure press freedom while simultaneously demanding professional responsibility.
This awareness serves as a vital foundation for maintaining a healthy information democracy—free from wrongful criminalization, yet firmly grounded in accuracy, ethics, and the public interest.
About the Author
