Kotabaru strengthens press partnerships, weighs funding for 2027
Kotabaru's Communication and Informatics Office is working with contracted media outlets to keep residents informed about local development, including in island communities. Office head H. Hendra Indrayana said the partnership would remain a commitment, but arrangements for 2027 must reflect the region's financial capacity.
Meeting with contracted media
Dozens of journalists and representatives of media outlets with local government cooperation agreements attended an informal gathering hosted by the office, known as Diskominfo, on Tuesday afternoon, October 20, 2026. According to Kalselpos.com, the in-person event took place in the yard of the Radio Gema Saijaan office in Kotabaru, South Kalimantan.
Diskominfo's official website described the gathering as a meeting with journalists and its contracted media partners. The partnership is a formal cooperation arrangement, rather than an open invitation to all media.
Hendra said the press helps the government inform the public about development in Kotabaru, nicknamed the "Earth of Saijaan." Kalselpos.com reported that he specifically included residents of the regency's scattered islands among those who should receive accurate information about development work.
"I hope that the cooperation that exists can continue to encourage informative, quality and useful news for the people of Kotabaru," he said at the October 20 gathering, according to ANTARA.
2027 plans must fit regional finances
Hendra said local financial conditions must be considered when organizing media partnerships. For the planned cooperation in 2027, the budget will need to be tailored to what the region can afford.
According to Kalselpos.com, he said the office remained committed to cooperation, with implementation adjusted to regional finances so the arrangement could operate effectively and sustainably. Diskominfo hopes to maintain and strengthen its relationship with the press.
Expectations for reporting
Hendra called for journalism that goes beyond ceremonial coverage and provides quality, educational information useful to the public. He also urged journalists to develop their reporting skills and use technology to present information.
He emphasized integrity, professionalism, accuracy and responsibility as standards for news coverage. The office also wants closer communication with the press to help it share public information effectively, transparently and in a balanced way in support of Kotabaru's development.