Jakarta (ANTARA) – Indonesia’s communications minister said journalists play a critical role in safeguarding truth as information spreads rapidly and is often unverified, urging media to prioritize accuracy over speed in the digital era.“This is an era of fast, abundant information, much of it not well verified as people race against time,” Minister Meutya Hafid said at the 2026 World Press Freedom Day event in Central Jakarta on Sunday.She said journalists must preserve the value and usefulness of news for the public despite pressure to produce content quickly, stressing that speed should not override accuracy in digital reporting.Hafid emphasized journalism must serve the broader public interest.“We produce news for the benefit of many people, not to harm them,” she said.She added that delivering accurate information is a constitutional mandate under Article 28 of Indonesia’s 1945 Constitution.In this context, the government and the press share equal responsibility to ensure the quality of information circulating in the public sphere.“Information is part of human rights, but what is meant is accurate information, not misinformation,” she said.Hafid also highlighted the need for caution in live broadcasts across conventional and digital platforms, given their ability to spread information instantly.“There are now many live broadcasts, not only on television but also on new media. We rely on those delivering information quickly to uphold truth,” she said.Meanwhile, Press Council Chairman Komarudin Hidayat said public demand for quality journalism is rising despite the surge in information.He said this reflects a shift in public awareness in selecting credible information sources.“An information explosion is inevitable, but the need for quality journalism is increasing,” Hidayat said.He added that people are beginning to balance social media use with the need for reliable news, reinforcing the relevance of professional journalism.“There is growing awareness of balancing social media consumption with the need for credible news,” he said.Hidayat urged stakeholders to continue improving the quality of Indonesia’s press within a framework of responsible press freedom.“Responsible press freedom is essential today, and the Press Council and stakeholders must help improve media quality,” he said.