Indonesian Journalists Association Batam denounces BP Batam Deputy for attending unauthorized conference.
Tensions escalated in Batam as the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) Batam condemned the presence of a high-ranking BP Batam official at an illegal conference falsely claiming affiliation with the organization.
On Sunday, April 27, 2025, M. Kavi Anshary, Chairman of the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) Batam, publicly criticized Ariastuti Siarait, Deputy for Public Services at BP Batam, for attending an illegal conference claiming to represent PWI Batam at Kings Hotel. Kavi called the attendance a severe breach of public trust, stating it tarnished the organization’s dignity.
Questionable Judgment From Senior Public Official
Ariastuti, who formerly served as Head of BP Batam’s Public Relations Bureau before her promotion to deputy, faced heavy scrutiny for her actions. Given her current high-profile role, PWI Batam asserted that Ariastuti should have exercised greater moral and professional responsibility by refraining from participating in unauthorized events.
No Rival PWI Organization Exists in Batam
Kavi reiterated that there is only one legitimate Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) Batam leadership, elected during the official conference held in February 2025 at Golden Prawn. The ceremony symbolically featured the donning of the “tanjak,” representing truth and dignity in Malay culture, solidifying the administration’s authenticity.
Emphasizing the legal framework under PWI’s Statutes and Bylaws (PD-PRT), Kavi affirmed that no rogue movements using PWI’s name would be tolerated. His remarks highlighted a broader concern about the potential misuse of organizational identity, especially following a high-profile ethics scandal at the national level.
Background on Leadership Turmoil
The controversy is further rooted in the national decision by PWI’s Honorary Council to dismiss Hendri CH Bangun over severe ethical violations involving cashback funds related to state-owned enterprise journalist certification programs. Subsequently, Andi Gino was removed from his position as Chairman of PWI Kepri, eliminating any legal basis for hosting a subsequent unauthorized conference.
Illegal Activities Deemed Misleading and Dangerous
Kavi firmly declared that any subsequent conferences claiming legitimacy were illegal and misleading. He urged the public and journalist community to remain vigilant against such movements, which he described as attempts to fracture solidarity among Batam’s media professionals.
The incident reflects the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) Batam’s unwavering stance in defending the organization’s integrity. Amid rising tensions, their leadership stressed the importance of safeguarding the fraternity and solidarity of journalists in Batam, especially against reckless maneuvers that could divide the profession.
The controversy surrounding the illegal conference in Batam and the involvement of a senior BP Batam official underscores deep concerns over organizational integrity in Indonesia. For Singaporeans who frequently engage with Batam’s media landscape, a stable and credible press environment remains essential to sustaining trust, promoting transparency, and ensuring social stability in the region.
Sources: Detak News (2025), Riau Kepri (2025)
Keywords: PWI Batam, BP Batam, Illegal Conference, Batam Journalists, Organizational Integrity, Public Controversy
