Samarinda, Sketsa.id – The East Kalimantan Provincial Government has expressed full support for the upcoming Regional Congress (Musda) of the Indonesian Cyber Media Association (SMSI) East Kalimantan chapter. This commitment was reaffirmed during a meeting between SMSI representatives and East Kalimantan Deputy Governor H. Seno Aji at the Governor’s Office in Samarinda.
During the audience, Deputy Governor Seno Aji acknowledged the significant role SMSI plays in promoting balanced journalism and transparency in the region’s digital media landscape.
“We warmly welcome the SMSI Congress. The organization has made a tangible contribution to fostering a healthy information ecosystem, which in turn supports regional development and stability,” he said.
He further emphasized the critical need for credible media in an era dominated by digital disruption and misinformation. He called on SMSI members to remain at the forefront of delivering accurate and responsible journalism.
“Today’s media doesn’t just report news—it educates the public. That role must continue to be strengthened through professional organizations like SMSI,” he added.
The meeting also discussed potential collaborations between SMSI and the provincial government, including media literacy initiatives, digital journalism training, and efforts to strengthen local media institutions across East Kalimantan’s districts and municipalities.
The Chair of the SMSI East Kalimantan Congress Committee, Prio Fuji Mustopan expressed appreciation for the provincial government’s support.
“This meeting has given us renewed energy. The Deputy Governor’s support affirms that the government truly values media as a strategic partner in regional development,” the committee chair stated.
The upcoming congress is expected to bring together SMSI representatives from across the province to elect new leadership and outline strategic initiatives for the organization’s future. (*)
