Jakarta – DKI Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung emphasized the importance of the press as a government watchdog. He said that while he was a public official, he never intervened in the news. “I am 25 years old, plus 5 more years when I finish acting governor, 30 years of never calling or correcting news,” Pramono said when he presented the 2025 Press Council Award at Jakarta City Hall, Wednesday (10/12/2025). Scroll TO CONTINUE CONTENT He added that during his 10 years accompanying the government at the Palace, he never intervened with the media. “For let the press grow independently. Let the press be the chief control,” he said. Pramono admits that he has a historical closeness to the world of the press. He was involved in the ratification of Act Number 40 of 1999 concerning the Press while still serving at the Ministry of Information. “This law is what controls and changes the face of our nation. It provides space for the public to monitor, convey their thoughts, control power and speak the truth,” he said. Pramono also agreed that the press is the fourth pillar of democracy. That is why he believes that freedom of the press should not be interfered with by anyone. “Friends of the press at City Hall, it’s okay if you want to be aggressive. It’s okay for me to be bullied,” he said, greeted by laughter from the audience. During the event, the Press Council awarded the 10th and 12th Vice President Jusuf Kalla (JK) as a figure of humanity and peace. Pramono said he was honored to host and welcome a figure he has respected for a long time. “I know very well that Mr. JK’s commitment to the nation has never changed over time,” Pramono said. Also watch the video “The Moment Pramono Inaugurates the Renovation of the Rasamala RPTRA, South Jakarta” (bel/fca)