The Role of Media in Conflict Resolution

Thematic Assessment
The Role of Media in Peace-Building

and Reconciliation
Central Sulawesi, Maluku and North Maluku
Researched and Prepared By:

The Institute for the Studies on Free Flow of Information
Institut Studi Arus Infomasi (ISAI)
(Jakarta, Indonesia)
With Technical Support From:

International Media Support (IMS)
(Copenhagen, Denmark)
July 2004
Media in Central Sulawesi, North Maluku and Maluku
This independent report was prepared by Institut Studi Arus Informasi (ISAI) with support
from International Media Support (IMS) and does not necessaraily reflect the views of
UNDP or BAPPENAS.
2
Abbreviations
AJI Alliance of Independent Journalist

ARSSI Indonesian Association of Private Broadcasting Radio
BBC British Broadcasting Corporation
CG Common Ground (Indonesia)
CPRU Crisis Prevention and Recovery Unit
DANIDA Danish International Development Agency
DFID Department for International Development (UK)
EC European Commission
FKKAUB Forum of Harmony and Communication among the Religious Disciples
HRW Human Rights Watch
ICCO Interchurch Organisation for Development Co-operation (NL)
ICFJ International Centre for Journalists
ICG International Crisis Group
IDP Internally Displaced Person
IFJ International Federation of Journalists
IMS International Media Support
INGO International Non-Governmental Organisation
INSI International News Safety Institute
ISAI Institute for the Studies on Free Flow of Information (Institut Studi Arus Informasi)
KPI Indonesian Broadcasting Commission (Komisi Penyiaran Indonesia)
LPS-HAM Institute for the Development of Legal Studies and Human Rights Advocacy
MDG Millennium Development Goals
MDLF Media Development Loan Fund
MMC Maluku Media Centre
NGO Non-Governmental Organisation
NORAD Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation
OTI Office of Transitional Initiatives (USAID)
PRSSNI Indonesian Alliance of National Private Broadcasting Radio
PWI Indonesian Journalist Association
RRI Radio Republik Indonesia
SEAPA Southeast Asian Press Alliance
SIDA Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency
SIUPP Press Publishing License (now removed)
SPS Union of Newspaper Publisher
TAF The Asia Foundation
UNDP United Nations Development Programme
UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation
UNHCR United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
UNICEF United Nations Children’s Fund
USAID United States Agency for International Development
VoA Voice of America
3
Preface
The Crisis Prevention and Recovery Unit (CPRU) of the United Nations Development
Programme (UNDP) Indonesia has been working in North Maluku and Maluku over the last three
years with a focus on multi-sectoral recovery initiatives to complement the efforts of the
Government of Indonesia to support post-conflict recovery, long-term peace building and
sustainable development. UNDP is also developing a three-year programme in Central Sulawesi
aimed at supporting the peace process, providing short-term responses to vulnerable communities
and working with local government and civil society in the design of the future programme. In all
three provinces, UNDP works with provincial and district level partners including Government,
UN agencies, international NGOs and civil society organizations.
In 2004, the CPRU commenced a planning process in cooperation with the National Planning and
Development Board (BAPPENAS) to identify the key longer-term challenges and opportunities
for crisis prevention and sustainable peace in Indonesia’s troubled regions. The outcomes of these
processes will lead to programme priorities for the next phase of programming in the provinces, as
well as a revised strategy and priorities for the Crisis Prevention and Recovery Programme as a
whole. These regional analyses have focused on three provinces – North Maluku, Maluku and
Central Sulawesi – provinces where CPRU/UNDP has supported programmes since 2001. Each
provincial analysis has consisted of three components, specifically (i) a provincial multi-
stakeholder workshop, (ii) research consisting of a literature review, local perception surveys and
case studies, and (iii) thematic assessment of key aspects of crisis prevention and peace-building
that had been identified. The series of provincial level assessments commissioned by UNDP
covered the following thematic issues (a) local economic development and natural resource
management, (b) local democratic governance, (c) media and information, (d) social cohesion and
youth, and (e) women and gender. The main conclusions of these reports are summarized in a
synthesis paper, which along with all the thematic reports are available on the UNDP Indonesia
website at www.undp.or.id.
This thematic assessment covers the issue of the role of media in conflict and peace-building an
has been completed by The Institute for the Studies on Free Flow of Information (ISAI) based in
Jakarta (see www.isai.or.id) in cooperation with International Media Support (IMS), based in
Copenhagen (see www.i-m-s.dk), was approached by UNDP and ISAI to provide technical
support and strategic input into this assessment process. ISAI and IMS would like to express their
gratitude to the local researchers for their work in Maluku, North Maluku and Central Sulawesi, as
well as all the interviewees and respondents who took part in the assessments. In addition, thanks
are expressed to all the national and international organisations that shared information and
experiences with the assessment team.
UNDP would like to thank BAPPENAS and the other peer reviewers of these studies. These
studies were made possible with financial support from the UK’s Department for International
Development and UNDP.
4
Table of Contents
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...................................................................................................... 6
1. INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................ 8
1.1 Media and Conflict: Analysis and Definitions........................................................................................ 8
1.2 Interrelationship between Media and Conflict....................................................................................... 9
1.3 Structural Considerations.................................................................................................................... 10
1.4 Content Considerations ...................................................................................................................... 11
1.5 Media and Conflict in Central Sulawesi, North Maluku and Maluku .................................................. 11
2. INDONESIA’S MEDIA LANDSCAPE – NATIONAL PERSPECTIVES .................... 13

2.1 Media Legislation ................................................................................................................................ 13
2.2 Media Institutions ................................................................................................................................ 13
2.3 Professional Media Organisations and Associations ......................................................................... 14
2.4 Commercial Media Networks.............................................................................................................. 14
3. MEDIA AND CONFLICT IN CENTRAL SULAWESI.................................................. 16

3.1 Background to Conflict........................................................................................................................ 16
3.2 The Media in Central Sulawesi ........................................................................................................... 17
3.3 Provincial Traditional Media................................................................................................................ 25
3.4 New Information Technologies ........................................................................................................... 27
3.5 Information Flows................................................................................................................................ 27
4. MEDIA AND CONFLICT IN MALUKU ........................................................................ 29

4.2 The Media in Maluku........................................................................................................................... 30
5. MEDIA AND CONFLICT IN NORTH MALUKU.......................................................... 41

5.2 The Media in North Maluku................................................................................................................. 43
6. RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SUPPORT TO THE MEDIA IN CENTRAL

SULAWESI, MALUKU AND NORTH MALUKU ................................................................ 50
6.1 Strengthening the Media Environment at Provincial Level................................................................. 51
6.2 Developing Professional Skills and Resources.................................................................................. 53
6.3 Information Flows and Access............................................................................................................ 56
6.4 Supporting Community-Based Communication................................................................................. 58
6.5 Considerations for Implementation..................................................................................................... 60
5
Executive Summary
Reliable, accurate and objective media, local outlets chose to close down during the
whether it be mainstream, alternative or most intense fighting. This has meant that all
traditional/non-conventional, can both help three provinces have had periods with none or
prevent and resolve conflict through the almost no local media coverage, leaving
automatic functions of responsibly rumours and propaganda as the prime local
disseminating information, furthering information source.
awareness and knowledge, promoting
Local media in all three provinces were,
participatory and transparent governance, and
and still are, accused of being biased.
addressing perceived grievances. In this regard,
Sometimes these accusations came from the
the effects of media on conflict can be viewed
combatant parties who expected the media to
both in terms of the negative repercussions that
be their mouthpieces, whilst at other times the
inadvertent or overtly propagandistic media
media took sides in the conflict or were forced
may have in terms of fuelling tensions and
to choose sides. In certain cases the lack of
provoking conflict, as well as the potential
independent and balanced local coverage can
positive impact it may have if based on basic
be explained by the fact that local media
professional standards, combined with diverse
owners were not sufficiently isolated from
access to information, reasonable financial
society and their outlets reflected popular
resources and adherence to ethical codes. Such
opinions. In addition, these media were part of
media can contribute to societal reconciliation,
the local business environment and therefore
change misperceptions and broaden
dependent on income from the local
understanding of the causes and consequences
community. Another obstacle to balanced
of conflict.
coverage was, and still is, ‘envelope
The three provinces of Maluku, North journalism’, whereby reporters are paid to
Maluku and Central Sulawesi were hit by cover issues in order to ‘top up’ otherwise low
conflict soon after the reformasi (reform) era incomes.
started in 1998. With reformasi came press
Maybe the largest obstacle to professional
freedoms under the new Indonesian Press Law
reporting remains the lack of education and
(30 August 1999), which meant that all three
professionalism among media practitioners.
conflicts were covered by the first ‘free’
Conceptual understanding and practical skills
Indonesian media for more than 30 years.
for objective and independent reporting were
The national media, to a fairly large extent, weak, particularly after more than 30 years
covered the conflicts in each province. with centralised state controlled media. In
However, due to the emergence of a number of contrast to the newfound freedoms of the post
conflicts in Indonesia in the early post New New Order era, under Soeharto news was
Order days, the continuity and depths of this solely provided centrally from state media and
coverage varied significantly. The national news agencies.
coverage also tended to focus on Ambon and
Many media outlets and professionals have
Maluku, whilst the coverage of the other two
received support and participated in workshops
provinces received less consistent attention.
conducted by national and international NGOs
In all three conflict areas, the provincial and associations, UN agencies and
media (including mainstream, alternative, international donors. However, even with this
traditional and non-conventional forms) new knowledge, structural obstacles still
addressed the conflicts from different remain in the media community preventing the
perspectives and with varying intensity. Many practice of these skills. In addition, local
failed to provide consistent, independent and interpretation of how to address content issues
balanced coverage and in the early phases is often taken for granted. Lack of
physical attacks against and abuse of the media professionalism in the media has seemingly
by the combatant groups took place in all three fuelled rumours and misperceptions in the past
provinces. Media infrastructure and buildings often with disastrous consequences. This status
were destroyed or looted and in many cases quo has also hindered attempts to address and
6
resolve latent conflict issues. Furthermore, the

weak commercial marketplace and lack of
clear legislative or regulatory structures leaves
the media vulnerable to the types of
manipulation and abuse that can trigger
conflict.
The recommendations identified in this
report are aimed at supporting the media’s role
in fostering a long-term reduction in the
potential for violent conflict based upon the
specific circumstances of each province as laid
out in the province-specific chapters. They
range from the broadest long-term perspective
of developing a strong and vigorous
environment in which the media can properly
fulfil its potential role as the ‘fourth estate’,
thereby positively influencing conflict
prevention and resolution, to the most specific
level aimed at immediate grass-roots impact
through the utilisation of local alternative and
traditional channels of communication.
Such an approach ensures that individual
traditional and alternative media can be
engaged in addressing conflict related issues in
a manner unique to the local environment, and
the inherent long-term role of the mainstream
and alternative mass-media can be secured for
preventing and resolving conflict through
countering manipulation and abuse,
diversifying information access and
dissemination, and providing skills and
resources.
The four areas identified for recommended
activities include (i) strengthening the media
environment at the provincial level, (ii)
developing professional skills and resources,
(iii) facilitating information flows and access,
and (iv) supporting community-based
communication.
7
1. Introduction
Professional media are a central component number of academics and media practitioners
of stable plural democracies. As the ‘fourth as referred to in the text. 3
estate’, the media acts as the ‘guardians of
democracy, defenders of the public interest… 1.1 Media and Conflict: Analysis and
revealing abuses of state authority and Definitions
defending the democratic rights of citizens’.1 In
this regard, it is assumed strong well-grounded In order that the media be assisted to
democracies are less prone or vulnerable to effectively address conflict, it is essential that
conflict. A professional and vigorous media the root causes, patterns of violence and current
community can thus both prevent and resolve dynamics are clearly understood. This process
conflict, through the automatic functions of requires a detailed and specialised approach,
disseminating information, furthering upon which assessments of thematic issues
awareness and knowledge, promoting should ideally be based. Moreover, conflict
participatory and transparent governance, and should be considered as circular rather than
addressing perceived grievances. linear, with the various stages of pre, mid and
post-conflict overlapping one another, without
Although the influence of the media during any necessary preset course. In this regard, a
periods of conflict has long been recognized, it conflict may theoretically pass from the overt-
is only in more recent years that it has been conflict stage to either the pre-conflict or post-
specifically addressed by the international conflict stages and so forth.4
development community as a means for
positively impacting on conflict, both through As a basic definition, the media are the
its function to communicate information, as several mediums or channels used in an
well as address issues and events in an organised fashion to communicate to
objective, reliable and accurate manner. As individuals and groups. The most commonly
noted by the participants of the SIDA/ recognized forms of media are print, audio,
UNESCO international roundtable on
3
‘Assistance to Media in Tension Areas and Publications reflected in this section include ‘Conflict
Conflict Situations’ in May 2003: Sensitive Journalism’ (IMS/ IMPACS, Ross Howard,
March 2003); ‘An Operational Framework for Media
‘Media underpins development and and Peacebuilding’ (IMPACS, Ross Howard, January
democratisation and is a vital element of conflict 2002); ‘Assistance to Media in Tension Areas and
resolution and peace building…. An independent Conflict Situations’ (SIDA/ UNESCO, Vaxholm May
media is the foundation of a democracy and more 2003); ‘Working with the Media in Conflicts and other
often than not the only guarantee for transparency and Emergencies’ (Conflict and Humanitarian Affairs
good governance in conflict management and post- Department and Social Development Department,
conflict development efforts’.2 DFID, September 2000); ‘Special Report: Use and
Abuse of Media in Vulnerable Societies’ (USIP,
The reflections outlined in this section of Special Report 110, October 2003); ‘Reporting the
the report are based upon the methodological World’ (Conflict & Peace Forums, Jake Lynch, 2002);
considerations and practical experiences of ‘Using the Media for Conflict Transformation: the
International Media Support (IMS) and the Common Ground Experience’ (Berghof Handbook for
Institute of Studies on Free Flow of Conflict Transformation, www.berghof-handbook.net,
Information (ISAI) in the field of media 2003).
4
Michael Lund in ‘Media as an Instrument for
development and freedom of expression in
Managing Conflicts and Building Peace’ (June 2002)
conflict-affected areas. The continuing debate writes that conflicts may be perceived as going
in this field has been contributed to by a through stages: “They may typically encompass a
variety of simultaneous facets including stable peace in
relation to unstable peace; crisis with high levels of
tension and confrontations, and breakdown of regional
1
‘Mass Media: Fourth Estate’ (Mick Underwood, political mechanisms; war, stalemates; de-escalation or
www.cultsock.ndirect.co.uk, June 2003) cessations; negotiations of settlements; settlements
2
Seminar on Assistance to Media in Tension Areas implementation; and post-settlement reconstruction
and Conflict Situations: Conclusion of Seminar and reconciliation. And several of these characteristics
Discussions and Proposed Recommendations (SIDA/ often occur at the same time. Conflicts are not uni-
UNESCO, Vaxholm 25-27 May 2003) linear phenomena.”
8
video and new information technologies, 1.2 Interrelationship between Media

which can be divided between ‘mainstream’ and Conflict
and ‘alternative’ outlets dependent on their
‘The media is a double-edged sword. It can be a
structure, focus and content. Whilst the term frightful weapon of violence when it propagates
‘mainstream’ media is relatively universally messages of intolerance or disinformation that
understood, there is more divergence about manipulate public sentiment… But there is another
what constitutes ‘alternative’ media. Although aspect to the media. It can be an instrument of conflict
this report does not seek to provide a definitive resolution, when the information it presents is reliable,
definition, it is assumed that ‘alternative’ media respects human rights, and represents diverse views.
should fit into one or a number of the It’s the kind of media that enables a society to make
well-informed choices, which is the precursor of
categories below: democratic governance. It is a media that reduced
! The media is ‘issue-driven’ and actively conflict and fosters human security’. 6
supports like-minded outlets and civil
society initiatives; As indicated in the quote above, an
assessment of the ‘cause and effect’
! Alternative approaches to societal activity relationship between media and conflict serves
are promoted in contrast to existing to more clearly present how the two entities
commercial interests and socio-economic impact upon one another.
hierarchies;
! The editorial focus is based on ‘new’ Effects of Media on Conflict - The effects
perspectives, providing different of media on conflict can be viewed in terms of
interpretations of issues and events; the negative repercussions that inadvertent or
overt propagandistic or one-sided reporting
! The consumers are often niche groups; may have in terms of fuelling tensions and
! Maximizing profits is not a key provoking conflict. Conversely, the media may
consideration; potentially have a positive impact if based
! Outlets have relatively horizontal working upon basic professional standards, combined
and pay structures. with diverse access to information, reasonable
financial resources and adherence to ethical
Although news and information are most
codes. Such media can contribute to societal
often the basis for media and conflict activities,
reconciliation, alter misperceptions and
entertainment programmes, ranging from chat-
broaden understanding of the causes and
shows to soap operas, are also important
consequences of conflict.
mediums. In this regard, all forms of media, if
based upon accurate and balanced standards, Effects of Conflict on Media - The negative
can communicate diversity and understanding.5 effects of violent conflict on media are well
known. In conflict-developing situations it is
This report also takes ‘traditional and non-
freedom of expression and the impartiality of
conventional’ media into consideration,
the media that are often the initial victims. In
including literature, poetry, music, art, rural
weakly founded democracies where editorial
and urban socio-economic forums, religious
independence is not sufficiently ensured, both
groups and socio-ethnic ceremonies. Although
state and non-state entities often succeed in
some of the content and structural
making the media a tool for nationalistic and
considerations outlined below are mainly
xenophobic propaganda. This is the case for
applicable to the ‘mainstream’ and ‘alternative’
both the state and independent media. Conflict
media, a number of the considerations are
generating propaganda in the media can serve
equally relevant to ‘traditional and non-
to provoke or escalate violence and is also
conventional’ media.
often a convenient occasion for the authorities
to crack down on press freedoms and freedom
of expression.
Conflict also erodes media environments
and undermines the economic viability of
5 6
‘An Operational Framework for Media and ‘An Operational Framework for Media and
Peacebuilding’ (IMPACS, Ross Howard, January Peacebuilding’ (IMPACS, Ross Howard, January
2002) 2002)
9
marketplaces. Although an explosion in the sudden presence of an unregulated or

number of media is often seen during conflict, ‘loosened’ media landscape may result in
the vast majority of these have limited numerous politically, religiously and ethically
resources and serve purely propaganda associated outlets opening, potentially only
purposes of one side or another. In this regard, interested in solidifying their influence at the
they generally do not survive long after the expense of others.
conflict subsides, although the resultant
Networking and Association - Networking
degradation to the media environment often
and association between journalists both within
has a lasting impact after the conflict.
their immediate communities, as well as
The effects of the media on conflict and regionally and internationally, facilitates
visa-verse are dependent on the context in exchange of experiences, promotion of best
which the interaction takes place. Such practices, collective stances and ‘strength in
contextual factors dictate the role and scope of numbers’. This serves to reinforce the
the media to influence the root causes, patterns confidence of media practitioners to uphold
of violence and current/ future dynamics of professional standards, often in isolated
conflict. In this regard, it is helpful to consider circumstances when societal, political and
these factors in terms of ‘structural’ and economic pressures dictate otherwise, as well
‘content’ considerations. as opens avenues for support from peers, on
issues from basic professional standards
1.3 Structural Considerations training to accessing legal aid funds.
When assessing the mutual impact of Information Flows - The dissemination of a
media and conflict there are a number of media is crucial in considering its potential to
structural issues that should be taken into influence communities. Media with low
consideration. These relate to the manner in dissemination are significantly restricted from
which the media outlets and practitioners communicating to the wider public and, in that
function and interact, both with one another, as regard, affecting public opinion. Likewise, the
well as the authorities, civil society and general accessibility of a media to the public is central
public.7 in defining its influence. If media is
inaccessible (i.e. if a ‘media vacuum’ exists)
Policy and Environment - The degree to
either due to low technical means, prohibitive
which policy and legislation provides a space
costs, deliberate obstruction or lack of interest,
within which the media can operate, and the
then its role will be diminished. The plurality
degree to which the judiciary can regulate and
of certain media can also have a significant
protect that space, are crucial. If legislation is
impact, because if there is only one outlet in
used to silence the media or the courts are
the most popular and/or easily accessible form,
easily influenced and corrupted, then it’s
then its influence will be significantly
function as the ‘fourth estate’ and its role in
enhanced due to the lack of competition.
conflict prevention and resolution will be
significantly hindered. Furthermore, the access that the media has
to timely and accurate information from
Conversely, if the media policy
primary sources is essential for balanced,
environment is too loose and legal and self-
objective and reliable reporting. In this regard,
regulatory checks and balances are not in
linkages and cooperative relations with local
place, this may allow ‘rogue’ media, whose
authorities, civil society, academia and the
aim is to disseminate hate speech and/or
development aid community are of significant
provoke conflict, to continue their activities
importance.
without any reasonable recourse to deter or
prohibit such action. This is particularly Homogeneous or Heterogeneous Media
relevant in transition countries where the Communities - The religious, ethnic and
political composition of the media community
7
can be instrumental in defining its orientation
This is based upon the categories and methodological and possible vulnerability to bias. Without
structure as described in ‘Special Report: Use and
Abuse of Media in Vulnerable Societies’ (USIP,
diversity there is a risk that the media will fail
Special Report 110, October 2003) to reflect the needs and concerns of ‘the other’.
In this manner, stereotypes and popular myths
10
can be promulgated through the written and enmity and inevitability of reoccurring conflict.
spoken word. Likewise, if ownership is If the surrounding environment is conducive
concentrated in one particular group, then the for the spread of conflict, both these types of
media may be manipulated or fail to reflect content can fuel violence, whether they be
diversity. deliberate hate speech or inadvertent reporting
due to low professional standards.
Media Skills and Resources - The skills
and resources available to media outlets and Pre-emptive Action - Media content as
practitioners, ranging from owners and editors described above serves to engender an
to reporters, have a significant impact on the unsubstantiated belief that pre-emptive action
media’s role. If there is an ingrained is required for self-defence. Such perceptions
understanding of the role of the media and the are often based on a lack of information and
professional standards required, then the media understanding of the intentions and
is more likely have a positive impact. circumstances of the other and a focus on
Conversely, if these are not present then the myths and stereotypes, perceived inequalities
potential for inadvertent conflict provocation, and injustices, and previous tensions between
as well as purposeful manipulation and abuse, communities (although the two communities
is greater. may have a far longer history of cooperation
and mutual tolerance). This can create hysteria,
Likewise, if the media has access to
drowning out more moderate voices in society.
developed financial and institutional resources
The role of the media in providing balanced
this will facilitate best practices and allow
and objective information is therefore essential.
media practitioners to perform their work
effectively and in accordance with professional In addition, the dehumanisation of
standards. Financial self-sustainability also communities and creation of an image of the
removes dependency on external sources of enemy as a mass rather than individuals with
funding and influence, thereby strengthening different orientations and interests, serves to
the potential for independent media to operate. make the resort to violence less personal and
therefore easier to justify.9
1.4 Content Considerations Historical Enmity and Conflict Inevitability
When assessing the mutual impact of - Although closely linked to the ‘pre-emptive
media and conflict, there are a number of action’ model, of equal concern is when media
‘content’ issues to be considered. These relate content creates an image that the outbreak of
to the substance of the media products being conflict or return to conflict in unavoidable.
published and/or broadcast. 8 This undermines the collective will of
communities to resist the path to conflict,
Media content that promotes conflict
which may be sought only by a small minority.
prevention and resolution is that which, at a
The establishment of such self-fulfilling
minimum, is based upon core professional
prophecies is usually achieved through
standards and practices. In this manner the
portraying conflict as pattern or ongoing
practice of advanced journalism skills, such as
historical process, thereby promoting violence
conflict sensitive journalism, investigative
as a normal or acceptable manner in which to
reporting and so forth, can have an even greater
pursue grievances or right perceived wrongs.
impact on facilitating conflict resolution and
prevention.
1.5 Media and Conflict in Central
In contrast, content that provokes conflict Sulawesi, North Maluku and Maluku
can be roughly divided into two broad groups:
that which is intended to stir emotions based This report focuses on the media in Central
upon an imagined need to take pre-emptive Sulawesi, North Maluku and Maluku.
action and that which dulls-opposition to Specifically, it provides a description of the
conflict based upon an image of historical national media landscape which are
fundamental to understanding and interpreting
8
This is based upon the categories and methodological
9
structure as described in ‘Special Report: Use and ‘An Operational Framework for Media and
Abuse of Media in Vulnerable Societies’ (USIP, Peacebuilding’ (IMPACS, Ross Howard, January
Special Report 110, October 2003) 2002)
11
circumstances at the provincial level (Chapter

2) and presents the main findings of the
assessments in Central Sulawesi, North
Maluku and Maluku (Chapters 3-5). The final
chapter brings the assessments together to
identify commonalities and differences and a
series of recommended activity areas. .
Table 1 – Asssessment Team

Organisation /
Name
Role
UNDP Irawati M. Hapsari
Coordinator
Emanuel Lalang Wardoyo
ISAI – Jakarta
Eriyanto
Team
Lia Ratna Palupi Nasution
Hasrul Kokoh (Central
ISAI – Field Sulawesi)
Coordinators Indarwati Aminuddin (Maluku)
Agung Jatmiko (North Maluku)
Thomas Hughes
IMS Team
Torben Brandt
The assessments conducted as part of this

assignment were divided into two main
sections. The initial period from 14 to 30 June
2004 was used for the preparation and
execution of the research in the three
provinces. This involved short-term visits by
the joint UNDP, IMS and ISAI team to Central
Sulawesi and North Maluku (Maluku was not
visited due to the security situation) and the
longer-term collation of the research data by
the ISAI teams on the ground in the three
provinces. In each province the teams consisted
of one ISAI field coordinator working with
five local researchers. The ISAI field
coordinators were backed-up by the ISAI team
in Jakarta. The assessment teams are shown in
Table 1.
The second phase, lasting from 1 to 8 July,
focused on the analysis of the data and design
of targeted recommendations. This phase
brought the ISAI coordinators from the three
provinces, ISAI team in Jakarta, IMS team and
UNDP media assessment coordinator together
for consultative meetings and report drafting.
12
2. Indonesia’s Media Landscape – National Perspectives

The national media in Indonesia has seen Institution, The Community Broadcast
profound changes since 1999. This section of Institution, and The Public Broadcast
the report outlines some considerations and Institution.
information applicable to the national level in
Another important aspect of the law is the
Indonesia that have direct bearing on the
creation of the Indonesian Broadcasting
situation at the provincial level in Central
Commission (Komisi Penyiaran Indonesia –
Sulawesi, Maluku and North Maluku.
KPI – see 2.2 below) as the independent
regulatory institution for broadcast media. This
2.1 Media Legislation role was previously in the hands of the
There are two important pieces of government under the Ministry of Information.
legislation relating to the media in Indonesia.
These are Undang-Undang Pers No.40/1999 2.2 Media Institutions
(the Press Law) and Undang-Undang
There are two important institutions
Penyiaran No. 32/2002 (the Broadcast Law).
relating to the media in Indonesia. Those are
Press Law - The press law was created to the Press Council (Dewan Pers) and
ensure press freedom and independence. This Indonesian Broadcasting Commission (KPI).
law is the total revision of the former law (UU
Press Council (Dewan Pers) - The
No.11/1966 and UU No.21/1982), the spirit of
existence of the Press Council is in the UU
which was to control and manipulate the
No.40/1999. The Press Council functions are to
media. In the press law of 1966 and 1982, the
decide and monitor the practice of journalist
government could intervene to shut down
ethical codes, develop the communication
media if they violated censorship rules. Over
between government and the media, and assist
237 press companies were shut down as a
the press organisations in formulating
result of the application of these laws.
professional rules. Other important functions
The most important thing in the UU Pers include reviewing cases of public complaint
No.40/1999 is the elimination of licensed press about the print and broadcasting media.
publishing (SIUPP - Surat Ijin Usaha
The Press Council is financed by media
Penerbitan Pers). Under the New Order
company organisations, state assistance and
regime, this license was the main obstacle for
other direct assistance. Although a Press
those wishing to publish. This new press law
Council was already established in the New
also guarantees that there should not be any
Order era, the new independent Press Council
censorship or government interventions to shut
was only created in February 2000.
down media. The law also guarantees the right
of journalists to search for and spread Indonesian Broadcasting Commission
information. (KPI) - The establishment of KPI is under the
UU Penyiaran No. 32/2002. KPI is one of the
Broadcast Law - The broadcast law passed
independent broadcast regulatory institutions.
in December 2002 was produced following a
The role of the KPI is similar to the Federal
long consultative process with all broadcast
Communications Commission (FCC) in the
media owner, academics, government and non-
United States or the Canada Broadcasting
governmental sector.
Authority (CBA).
An important part of this broadcast law is
The KPI is in charge in deciding the
the limitations placed on national broadcaster,
standard of the broadcasting programme,
cross-ownership and centralization of the
making guidelines and determining their
media ownership. This law manages the
implementation. The KPI can also give
broadcast media in Indonesia based on the
penalties against those media that violate the
principles of diversity of ownership and
rules and guidelines. The KPI should be
content. The law divided the broadcast
established both in Jakarta and in the
institution into three sections. Those three
provinces. The central body consists of nine
sections are The Commercial Broadcast
13
persons chosen by the legislative council and Following the end of the New Order
acknowledged by the President. regime in 1999, AJI became a purely
professional organisation. AJI’s activities
2.3 Professional Media Organisations currently include holding training for
and Associations journalists and advocacy against violence and
abuse of the media. Other advocacy includes
Indonesian Journalist Association (PWI) - protection and assisting journalists under
PWI was created in February 1946 and is the threat. AJI also campaigns against bribery in
oldest journalist association in Indonesia. In the the media and for the development of labour
New Order era (up to 1998), PWI was the only unions in media enterprises. Its membership is
journalist association. During that time, all smaller than PWI’s, although those involved
journalists were required to be a member of have a reputation of being more pro-active.
PWI, and those without PWI membership
could not work. In addition, all chief editors of Indonesian Alliance of National Private
the media in Indonesia had to be members of Broadcasting Radio (PRSSNI) - PRSSNI is an
PWI. PWI worked together with the New association of private (commercial) radio
Order authorities to identify critical journalists. stations in Indonesia. It was established in 1974
during the New Order and was the only
Until 2002, the number of PWI members umbrella organization for private radios.
was 11,212 journalists who came from various Currently there are reportedly about 1,200
media. Currently, PWI has 27 branches at the private radio stations in Indonesia and by 2003
provincial level and 69 representatives in the PRSSNI included 816 of these across the
districts across Indonesia. Although it has country. PRSNNI has a central management in
many members, many are non-active. PWI’s Jakarta, as well as regional branches in the
image is reportedly poor mainly among the provinces. It held training for its members,
younger journalists. PWI holds several organised radio databases and seeks to strength
activities, such as training for journalist and the resources and abilities of stations.
writing competitions, as well as sports and arts
events. Indonesian Association of Private
Broadcasting Radio (ARSSI) - ARSSI was
Alliance of Independent Journalist (AJI) - created in 1999 after the fall of the New Order
Alliance of Independent Journalist (AJI) was
regime when it was no longer compulsory for
created in opposition to the Indonesian radios to be members of PRSSNI. However,
Journalist Association (PWI). AJI was there is very little availably information about
established in December 1994 in response to ARSSI activities and the number of member.
the banning of three media (Editor, Tempo and
Detik) under the Soeharto’s regime. In October Union of Newspaper Publisher (SPS) - SPS
1995, AJI was accepted formally as the is an association of newspaper publishers in
member of International Federation of Indonesia. It was established in 1946. SPS
Journalists (IFJ). represents newspaper’s interests, including
issues relating to price, paper supply and
Under the New Order, AJI was run as an taxation. SPS also holds press management
underground organisation since the training and runs a newspaper database. Most
government did not acknowledge it as an of publishing houses are members of SPS. It
institution. Any journalist recognised as a also has regional branches, of which there were
member of AJI was removed from the media. 20 branches across Indonesia in 2003.
The Department of Information issued
instructions to chief editors of media to expel 2.4 Commercial Media Networks
any journalist involved with AJI. Therefore,
under the New Order, AJI was more a Print Media Networks - Indonesia
movement against the authorities rather than experienced a boom in media publishing after
professional organisation. AJI activities the downfall of the New Order in 1998 and the
included discussions and seminars about the elimination of the press permission certificate.
press struggle, professional journalist training, Up to 2002, there were 1,676 press permits,
students and pro-democracy activities, and although only 695 of them published regularly.
promoting research about press issues and According to the Union of Newspaper
publication of related books. Publishers (SPS), only 30% of those 695
14
publishers were financially stable. Indonesian

newspaper encountered the classic problems of Table 3 – Radio Networks in Indonesia
low reading capacity and poor purchasing Radio Network Number of Members
power. As a result, many newspapers have MRA Media 10 radio stations in Jakarta,
been closed down. Yogyakarta, Bali, Bandung.
A recent phenomenon in Indonesia has Semarang
Rajawali Media 3 radio stations in Surabaya
been the emergence of corporate owned press.
Group
Of the approximate 695 regular publications, Gajahmada Group 3 radio stations in Semarang
30% are under corporate groups. By 2003 there Rajawali Group 4 radio stations in Lampung
were 10 corporate media groups in Indonesia, Pentas Group 4 radio stations in Palembang
the biggest being the Jawa Pos Group and Kartika Group 3 radio stations in Liwa and
Kompas-Gramedia (see Table 2). Jawa Pos has Lampung
107 daily and weekly newspapers in Indonesia, Masima Media 14 radio stations in Jakarta,
while Kompas-Gramedia has almost 50 Investama Bandung, Yogyakarta, Manado
and Makassar
publications. Besides the national companies,
CPP Radio Net 40 radio stations in almost all
there are regional publishing houses such as regencies of Central Java
Bali Post and Pikiran Rakyat in West Java. Suzana Radionet 8 radio stations in East Java
Arbes Network 9 radio stations in West
Table 2 – Print Media Groups in Indonesia Sumatra
Smarat Network 6 radio stations in Manado,
Number of Makassar, Palembang, Padang
Corporate Media
Publishing and Banjarmasin
Groups
(as of 2003) Mayangkara 6 radio stations in East Java
Jawa Pos Group 107 (a newspaper in Radionet
Surabaya, and many Ramako Group 5 radio stations in Jakarta and
regional newspaper) Batam
Kompas Gramedia Group 55 (a newspaper in RCM Radio Network 9 radio stations in Yogyakarta
Jakarta and regional and Central Java
ones, tabloid and Volare Group 14 radio stations in West
magazine) Kalimantan
Media Indonesia Group 4 (a newspaper in Bens Radio 9 radio stations in Jakarta,
Jakarta and several Banten and Surabaya
regional newspapers) Nirwana Group 9 radio stations in South
Pos Kota 4 (newspapers in Kalimantan
Jakarta)
Bisnis Indonesia 2 (newspapers in (See Table 3). By 2003, there were
Jakarta) approximately 17 radio networks in Indonesia.
Pikiran Rakyat 5 (newspapers in West
Java)
Bali Post 4 (newspapers in Bali)
MRA Group 4 (several media in
Jakarta)
Bintang Advis Media 3 (several media in
(BAM) Jakarta)
Broadcast Media Networks - In Indonesia

there are 53 government radio stations under
Radio Republik Indonesia (RRI) and about
1,200 private radios. However the precise
numbers are unknown, since many radios
operate without licences (it is estimated that
only 850 out of 1,200 radios in the country
have licences). The radio phenomenon in
Indonesia has been similar to the print media,
with many radio stations belonging to networks
15
3. Media and Conflict in Central Sulawesi

Situated in the eastern region of Indonesia,
Central Sulawesi covers an area of 68,059 sq. 3.1 Background to Conflict11
km. It has a population of approximately 2.07
Dutch missionaries from the early 1900s
million (ranked 22nd in terms of population
sought to convert indigenous animist groups to
after North Sulawesi), with a population
Christianity in the mountainous interior of
density of 31 persons/sq. km. The population
what is now Central Sulawesi province. The
is spread out over 8 districts and 1 city, with
colonial administration envisioned these
concentrations in Donggala District (35.21%),
Protestants as an allied population buffer
Banggai (13.07%), Palu (12.94%) and Poso
against Muslim-influenced coastal kingdoms.
(11.20%). Smaller numbers reside in Tolitoli
Many of these slash-and-burn farmers were
District (8.34%), Morowali (7.73%), Banggai
resettled in model villages and set to wet-rice
Islands (6.80%) and Buol (4.71%).
farming by the Dutch. Most groups living
The media is mainly concentrated in Palu around Poso Lake, between Poso and the
District with its population of 269,083, which mission centre of Tentena, came to identify
makes up the majority of the marketplace for themselves ethnically as Pamona. The
existing media. In this regard, Palu also acts as Japanese Occupation and independence in
a barometer for media development and 1945 was followed by a chaotic period when
growth. Palu and the other districts are located Muslim rebels from South Sulawesi attacked
hundreds of kilometres from one another and interior animists and Christians.
the topography includes mountains and valleys
When the Suharto regime took control, the
with steep slopes thus obstructing the
majority population of the region was still
dissemination of media. In addition, road and
Protestant and Pamona leaders exercised partial
transportation infrastructure is poor.
control over the local bureaucracy. However,
The following chapter provides an much had changed by the end of Suharto's
overview of the five main assessment areas for regime. In 1973, Suharto designated Central
Central Sulawesi including (i) the mainstream Sulawesi as one of ten new transmigration
media, (ii) alternative media, (iii) traditional provinces. The Trans-Sulawesi Highway was
media, (iv) new information technologies and cut into the rugged mountain forests to ease the
(v) information flows. Although it provides an path for trans-migrants. The new roads and
overview of the media situation, it does not settlements also attracted a flood of voluntary
provide a holistic picture of all media outlets migrants, especially Muslim Bugis and
and forms. Additional in-depth information can
be found in the Annexes 1-9.10 relating to the distance between the provincial capital,
Palu, and the centre of much of the violence, Poso
10
The information presented in this chapter derives (with the Muslim community being concentrated in
from the research data gathered by ISAI between 23 Poso Kota and the Christian community in Tentena).
and 30 June 2004, which looked at the performance Coordinating the local researcher was also
and development of the provincial mainstream, problematic, as it was hard for the Muslim local
alternative and traditional media in Central Sulawesi, researcher to do in-depth interviews with Christian
as well as examined information flows from both local religious figures and vice versa. The local researchers
and national media and their respective influence on were recruited from media and civil society
the general public. A sample of eleven respondents backgrounds, although it was ensured that they did not
representing provincial media stakeholders, interview persons related to their own organisations .
11
community figures, religious leaders, security forces, This section is based upon the following sources:
government, private sector and the general public Encyclopaedia Britannica 1999, Jakarta Post, OTI
provided in-depth feedback on the role of the media Field Report Indonesia (June 2000), Central Sulawesi -
relating to conflict. The in-depth research on media Program on Humanitarian Policy and Conflict
outlets covered four newspapers (Radar Sulteng, Research (Harvard University, USA), Human Rights
Nuansa Pos, Koran MAL, Poso Pos), two alternative Watch, Inside Indonesia, Lorraine Aragon, East
print media (Sangkopo, Baruga), four private radio Carolina University in Greenville (North Carolina,
stations (Nebula, Nugraha, RAL, Bulava) and the USA), International Crisis Group (Indonesia
state-owned radio station (RRI programmes 1, 2 and Backgrounder: Jihad in Central Sulawesi, report, 03
3). The main obstacles faced in undertaking the February 2004).
research were the conditions in the field, particularly
16
Makassar people from South Sulawesi. The the population underwent an increasing de-
financial crisis, beginning in late 1997, spurred facto religious segregation - Muslims in Poso
further migration into the Poso area. city, Protestants in the highland towns.
Competition between modernist Muslims and
During the first months of 2001, violence
Christians for military posts and government
worsened. In addition to attacks on farmers,
positions, including that of head (Bupati) of
disgruntled factions planted bombs in religious
Poso district, intensified.
buildings and police posts. Violence surged
Recent Conflict in Poso again at the end of 2001 when thousands of
well-armed Laskar Jihad members were added
In December 1998 a street fight between
to the volatile mix of local fighters and over a
two youths, one Protestant and one Muslim,
hundred more persons were killed. At least half
during a tense local political campaign, quickly
a dozen churches and 4,000 houses in thirty
deteriorated into a religiously polarised battle
villages were burned. Roughly 15,000 more
in the formerly quiet, multiethnic region. The
people fled their homes. Muslim militias seized
street fight that began in the heart of Poso city
control of fuel stations and roadside
on the eve of both Christmas and Ramadan in
checkpoints.
1998 fed into religious tensions promoted by
inflammatory graffiti during the campaign. After three years of episodic fighting, death
toll estimates range from 1,000 to 2,500, with
Soon, supporters from allied towns arrived
thousands more injured. Scores of churches
to reinforce the Protestant and Muslim mobs.
and mosques have been burned. Nearly
After a week of chaotic street fighting and
100,000 have fled their homes, leaving the
arson, about 200 people were injured and 400
capital of Poso district described at one time as
homes burned. A second escalating street fight
a 'dead city', though some are now returning.
occurred in mid-April 2000. When a Muslim
The peace agreement formulated in Malino,
youth was reported stabbed by a Protestant, a
South Sulawesi, was widely welcomed but has
Muslim posse began a retaliation campaign
faced challenges in its implementation.
that the police reportedly could not handle. By
early May over 700 homes had been burned,
mostly belonging to Christians, along with 3.2 The Media in Central Sulawesi
several church buildings and a police barracks.
Thousands of internally displaced persons
(IDPs), mostly Christians, fled the district. 3.2.1 National Media
The ‘third phase’ began only three weeks National print media that are readily
later when a group of Christians made a night- available in Palu town include Kompas, Media
time raid on the Muslims they considered Indonesia, Harian Fajar (Makassar) and the
responsible for the earlier destruction of Jakarta Post. These are found beside tens of
Christian neighbourhoods. The masked ‘ninja’ infotainment tabloids and magazines available
group of about a dozen men is alleged to have in Central Sulawesi that are published in
included both Protestant Pamona and Catholic Jakarta.
immigrants from Flores who resided in the Local media have allotted designated
Poso district. Fighting then intensified columns for national information and news.
throughout the region, abetted by local Radar Sulteng sources its news from its group,
Christian militias. This third phase culminated while Nuansa Post and the weekly newspaper
in a massacre of Javanese men who fled to a MAL make extensive use of the Internet.
Muslim boarding school in a transmigration Headlines are predominantly about national
area south of Poso. Over a hundred were killed news, with local news amounting to 40% of the
with homemade weapons and their bodies total content. Reporters working for local
were tossed in the Poso River and mass graves. media also often double as correspondents for
The fighting continued until the end of July national media.
2000, when three ringleaders were arrested.
In Central Sulawesi one of the most
Despite a few high-profile reconciliation popular sources amongst the population for
efforts in late 2000, sporadic fighting continued accessing news and information is television.
and most IDPs did not return home. Instead, National private television stations with
17
transmission stations in the region include its takeover by Jawa Pos Group. Mercusuar,
RCTI, Metro TV and TPI. Local viewers may then part of Yayasan Suara Rakyat (People’s
also opt for TVRI Palu, which broadcasts local Voice Foundation), was initiated in 1969 by
programmes for three hours a day. The Rusdy Toana. Its maiden publication was in
population in Palu also has access to cable September 1969 in the form of a magazine. As
television operations serving housing it was reportedly founded among
complexes in Palu town, and even some of the Muhammadiyah circles, it was seen as serving
villages outside the city. as a Muhammadiyah mouthpiece. Mercusuar
eventually opted for a tabloid format and
3.2.2 Mainstream Print Media started targeting a broader audience. Koran
According to the Independent Alliance of MAL also counts itself as one of the first
Journalists (AJI), between 2000-2002, Palu publications in the province. It was established
saw thirty-three new print media being in July 1971 by Yayasan Al-Khairat Press,
established. However, by 2004 only a few were which also administered an Islamic school.
still running. To date, only four newspapers MAL was initially printed as handouts and run
based in the province’s capital continue to by the Chairman of Al Khairat, HS Saggaf Al
publish regularly.12 Djufrie.
After the need to have a press publishing Nuansa Pos was started after the SIUPP
license (SIUPP) was removed, investment in was removed. Established in November 1998
the print media sector sharply increased in and going by the motto ‘Conclusive and Solid
Central Sulawesi. A newspaper could Reportage’, it took a tabloid format (then later
reportedly be started for approximately IDR 5- turned into a broadsheet) and specialized on
10 million.13 This sparked an upsurge of instant crime reportage. The owners stated that they
reporters working on a minimum wage, who felt that there was a need for a newspaper
were often poorly versed on professional providing news on development and bridging
principles. As a result, editors and owners also the gap between the public and government.16
had difficulty in applying stringent newsroom Poso Pos was also established after the SIUPP
policies. was removed. Published for the first time in
November 1999, the paper has the motto
However, after the conflict, the number of “Palakati Sintuwu Maroso”, which according
outlets fell rapidly.14 These short-lived outlets to the owner is designed to carry the
were handicapped by poor editorial democratic message.
management, inadequate printing facilities and
limited capital.15 Moreover, a number had 3.2.3 Alternative Print Media
existed simply to serve the purpose of
When the administration of Abdurrahman
propagating one side’s version of events in the
Wahid made way for that of Megawati
conflict. Despite the decline in numbers since
Soekarnoputri, the Coordinating Minister for
2002, those print media still in operation are
People's Welfare (Menko Kesra) Jusuf Kalla
still hindered by the same problems.
initiated the Malino Declaration as a peace
Mainstream print media in Central agreement for Poso in February 2002. In Poso,
Sulawesi includes Radar Sulteng, Nuansa Pos, stakeholders followed up on the declaration by
Koran MAL and Poso Pos. The oldest forming a multi-stakeholder forum called the
newspaper in Central Sulawesi is Mercusuar, Working Group for Reconciling Poso (Pokja
which is now called Radar Sulteng following RKP). One of its projects was to promote and
campaign on peace through alternative media,
12
Data of the Kota Palu chapter of the Independent such as Baruga magazine, which made its
Alliance of Journalists (AJI). debut in 2001.17
13
Data of Palu City chapter of AJI, 2000-2002.
14
Quoted from data of the Kota Palu chapter of the
Independent Alliance of Journalists (AJI), research on
16
media in Central Sulawesi during 2000-2002. See Interview with Andi Attas Abdullah, Editor-in-
Table: Growth of Printed Media in Central Sulawesi Chief, and Bayu Alexander Montang, President-in-
between 2000-2002. Chief of Nuansa Pos, 27 May 2004.
15 17
Interview with M. Rafik Yahya, Executive Editor of Baruga means a place for communities of all
MAL, 29 May 2004. ethnicities to gather and consult to resolve problems.
18
Baruga is a monthly 20-page publication 3.2.4 Broadcast Media

and was established to ‘counterbalance’ its Compared to print media, radio in Central
mainstream media counterparts. According to Sulawesi had a higher survival rate following
Darwis Waru, a community member and the conflict. Lower productions costs, wider
reporter, the media’s role in the conflict in dissemination and more straightforward permit
Central Sulawesi is so crucial that it may make requirements were some of the underlying
or break peace. With this in mind, Pokja RKP reasons behind the comparative sustainability
published Baruga as an effort to reduce of the broadcast media vis-à-vis the print
tensions. USAID supported the magazine until media.
its fourth edition, whilst the coming editions
are funded by ICCO. As is commonplace with Nevertheless, before the Broadcasting Law
media managed by forums or NGOs, was passed in 2003, radio administrators in
sustainable access to funding is an ongoing Palu had to deal with rigorous permit
issue.18 The magazine appears to have a strong requirements set by the Ministry for
editorial capacity and the management recently Communications (Dephub) through its
tried to sell it to the general public as a fund Directorate-General for Post and
raising effort to substitute production cost Telecommunications (Dirjen Postel). At the
(editorial, printing and distribution), reportedly time, broadcast content was regulated by the
finding that the public was willing to pay for Ministry of Information (Deppen), based on
the publication.19 Pokja RKP also spreads peace recommendations made by the Indonesian
messages through information and Commercial Broadcasters Association
communication tools such as posters. 20 (PRSSNI). However, permit requirements
became more lenient in 2003.
The Central Sulawesi chapter of Lembaga
Pengembangan Studi Hukum dan Hak Azasi In Central Sulawesi there are five radios
Manusia (LPS-HAM) also utilised alternative that hold official FM frequencies license and
media with a specific focus on conflict.21 In eight with AM frequencies.23 However, Palu
2002 it published Sangkopo magazine with the has at least thirteen radio stations broadcasting
aim of covering human rights issues. Its other on FM frequencies.24 The Indonesian
mission was to address the lack of advocacy Government Radio (Radio Republik Indonesia
through the media in the province.22 In this – RRI) in Palu, with its widespread range, now
regard, LPS-HAM considered the media as uses simultaneously six channels on different
being quite cooperative in opening the frequencies (FM, AM, SW). A number of
information flows in Central Sulawesi in the commercial broadcasters assumed that the use
area of human rights education and the of their channels was legal because (at the
ongoing peace process. time) the Broadcasting Law was still being
drafted, although this is yet to be determined.
In direct connection to this, the Regional
Independent Broadcasting Commission
(Komisi Penyiaran Independen Daerah –
18 KPID) is still to be formed in the province to
Interview with Romy, editorial volunteer for Baruga
Bulletin, Pokja RKP.
take over the role of PRSSNI.
19
Pokja RKP decided not to sell Baruga on a regular
23
basis, due to ethical reason of accepting donor aid in Data processed from Data and Potential of
order to continue with its publication. Broadcasters in Central Sulawesi, Central Sulawesi
20
Interview with Darwis Waru, Editor-in-Chief of chapter of PRSSNI. See Annex 5 - Commercial
Baruga magazine, 31 May 2004. Broadcasters holding Frequency Permits in Central
21
LPS-HAM is the Institute for the Development of Sulawesi.
24
Legal Studies and Human Rights Advocacy in Central Most of radio stations in Palu are illegal and they do
Sulawesi. It is an organization that focuses its activity not mention their station’s call sign. The local
in civil society strengthening and has done much researcher screened the FM frequencies around Palu
advocacy work and critical legal education for the and found there were radios on the following
Central Sulawesi community. It is a local NGO which frequencies: 90,6; 95,2; 95,8; 97,5; 99,1; 93,0; 101,0;
is part of a national network of NGOs that works on 101,8; 102,6; 103,4; 104,2; 105,0; 105,8. Out of these
Civil Society and Human Right advocacy. 13 radios, only three have valid licenses, these being
22
Interview with Marthen Salu, Editorial Secretary of 101,0: Nebula FM; 102,6; Nugraha Top FM; 101,8:
Sangkompo Bulletin, 27 May 2004. Best FM.
19
Before the number of radio stations started Another commercial radio in Palu
to expand in the post-conflict period in Poso, broadcasting news is Nugraha. It went on air
stations holding radio frequency permits often for the first time in 1993. Like Nebula, it
lacked editorial capacity to produce news started out by airing on AM wavebands before
programmes, as they had for so long been switching over to FM in 1997 with a broadcast
required to relay news broadcasted news from range of approximately 30 km. The radio airs
RRI. After this was no longer required, stations 21 hours a day. The radio was originally purely
started to diversify by adding news programs intended to serve commercial ends and as a
to their entertainment shows. In this manner, means to channel creativity. Nugraha is now
Radio Nugraha has produced its own news owned by a media business network, the
programme since 2002. Meanwhile, Nebula, Jakarta-based Media Network Consolidated.
which went on air for the first time in Nugraha also broadcasts news programmes, is
November 1985 and reaches Palu town, most a member of the BBC network and also airs
of Donggala District and Parigi Moutong programmes from Internews.
District, started to seriously produce news only
RAL (Radio Al-Khairat) broadcasts on
when the Poso conflict erupted.
AM wavebands. Like MAL, RAL is also
The change must be partially attributed to administered by Yayasan Al-Khairat. Its
the arrival of news agencies such as Kantor broadcasting permit was issued in 1994 and its
Berita Radio (KBR) 68H Jakarta (Radio News mission is to spread Islamic values. When it
Office 68H Jakarta) with its radio network made its debut, RAL adopted broadcasts of
concept. International radio stations, such as RAL Manado.25 Later, RAL also produced
BBC and Voice of America (VoA), have also news programmes of which content were
included local radio stations in their networks. sourced from MAL and it is also part of the
Moreover, radio program producers such as KBR 68H network.
Internews Indonesia and Common Ground
The radio with the widest range in Central
Indonesia have developed the scope and source
Sulawesi is Radio Republik Indonesia (RRI)
of programmes for the local radio stations.
Palu. The radio station, now a departmental
Radio stations in Central Sulawesi include agency, expanded its programs to include RRI
Nebula and Nugraha in Palu, whilst in Poso Programmes 1, 2 and 3. The three programmes
there is Bulava, Local Government Radio are aired at six different frequencies on FM,
(Radio Pemerintah Daerah, RPD) Poso and AM and SW wavebands. They are supplied
Bhayangkara Radio. RRI Palu with its three with (local) news from the News Desk
programmes 1, 2 and 3 has a broad reach packaged as fits the segmentation of each
covering the province. program.26 The editorial crew at the news desk
has only seven outdated typewriters, although
Radio Nebula, which airs 18 hours a day,
the journalistic capacity appears strong.
was established by a group of school students
Broadcasts target audiences of all ages with a
in Kota Palu. At first they started a broadcast
range that goes across provincial borders. It
named Voice of Madness. However, it did not
collaborates with local government
survive and eventually went off air. Afterwards
departments and offices in covering news and
the radio was taken over by PT Nebula Nada.
implementing promotional campaigns. It has
The radio currently broadcasts on FM 101.0
worked particularly close with the provincial
MHz. According to Tasrif Siara, the radio was
Information and Communication Office
formed because of commercial and creativity
(INFOKOM) in dealing with the Poso conflict,
reasons, as well as to serve as a forum for
as well as with natural disasters.
popular aspirations. To date, Nebula is
reportedly one of the province’s barometers for Bulava is a radio station based in the
commercial broadcasters in terms of news conflict area of Poso. It went on air for the first
programmes. The radio is also networked with
KBR 68H Jakarta and Voice of America. It 25
The chairman of Yayasan Al-Khairat, HS Saggaf
uses radio programmes produced by Internews Aldjufrie has initiated a number of media including
and Common Ground. Its infrastructure RAL Palu and RAL Manado, the latter also being
appears adequate with most of its personnel affiliated to the Al Khairat network (more than 2000
having attended radio trainings. nodes) in the eastern part of Indonesia.
26
See Annex 6 - Wattage and Broadcast Range
20
time in 1996 at FM 100.2 MHz. Its broadcast towards commercial considerations through
range covers Poso town. As is the case with taking sides in the violence. The media often
other commercial broadcasters, it was unconditionally quoted interviews from a
established solely based on commercial single side and included religious sentiments
considerations and to entertain the public in that coloured news coverage.
Poso town. Bulava produces its own news
After the conflict, the editorial policy of the
programme called ‘Bulava Aktual’ with
local media reportedly underwent considerable
content sourced from local and national
reorientation. The public, jaded by the constant
newspapers. The radio is not yet linked to news
news about conflict, prompted newsrooms to
agencies or networks. Pokja RKP collaborated
shift the focus of their content. As stated by
with Bulava in broadcasting public service
Ariyanto Sangaji, an activist with Yayasan
announcements to promote peace in Poso.
Tanah Merdeka (YTM):
Other commercial radios in Poso include Radio
Pemerintah Daerah (RPD) of the district “During the Poso conflict, local media were
government of Poso, Radio Bayangkara of the during the initial stage very imbalanced in
Poso Police Precinct (Polres), Radio Narwastu their reporting... The principles of
journalism were no longer heeded. But the
and Radio Mayasprasta.27
last 5 years have seen amazing change”
3.2.5 Media Content Overall, it appears that media
The University of Tadulako's Research administrators in Central Sulawesi do attempt
Centre on Peace and Conflict (P4K) have to apply stronger newsroom policies, but on the
undertaken analysis of the role of media in other hand reporters who have to meet local
conflict, which they classify in three groups as sources and deal with the realities of working
follows: (1) media as conflict trigger; (2) media in the field find it quite challenging to write
as conflict concealer; and (3) media as conflict balanced, correct and verified news.
resolver. The conclusions of P4K are that Different newsrooms have different
mainstream media, including both newspapers responses. MAL chooses to take over the job
and radio stations, pose a significant potential of the relevant reporter in order to safeguard
to become a conflict trigger due to their the paper’s reputation. MAL benefits from the
commercial orientation and poor fact that it only has to publish once a week.
professionalism. In contrast, it was alleged that Other media opt to print the news with the
the state-owned media attempted to down play condition that verification can be done the day
the conflict at the time. after. Yan Patris Binela, a priest based in
During the periods of heightened conflict, Tentena, recounted how fast news on religious
the mass media (most notably newspapers) segregation spread when, unverified, it was
apparently inadvertently contributed to the broken by the media. Even so, during the last
violence in Poso, often becoming a mouthpiece two years he judged that the media had
for combatant groups.28 Printed news or articles undergone a shift in news focus, stating:
were used as reference by many of the parties “I think that they between 2002 and 2004
to the conflict. At the same time, the press in started to produce balanced news on Poso,
Indonesia was enjoying its newly acquired even if they often overlook the root cause of
freedom. The administration of Abdurahman the issue”29
Wahid (Gus Dur) allowed the establishment of However, although many media no longer
media without the need for stringent permits. address conflict-sensitive issues due to the
Newspapers in Palu experienced a sudden potential outcome of poor professionalism, the
growth. Amidst the increasing conflict they tendency to print bombastic news is evident in
reportedly competed by orienting themselves other forms, such as crime reportages. Media
apparently often turn to crime news to increase
27
Aside from Radio Bulava which airs on FM
wavebands and Radio Mayaprasta (AM), other radio
stations in Poso have yet to receive frequency permits.
28
Interview with Mr. Nasrun of University of
29
Tadulako's Research Centre on Peace and Conflict, Interview with Yan Patris Binela, a reverend based
Central Sulawesi. in Tentena, 28 May 2004.
21
sales. Soraya, an activist with KPKP-ST,30 said Internews and Common Ground are two
that newspapers in Central Sulawesi shed the INGOs working with radio stations in
limelight on criminal actions against women by Sulawesi. They produce radio programmes that
incessantly exposing, for example, rape cases. are broadcast by a number of radio stations in
No efforts are made to protect the identity of Palu. Internews regularly sends three feature
the victim.31 programmes to radio stations in Palu. These
being Sahabat Alam (Friends of Nature), a
In contrast to the problems faced in the
programme raising awareness about the threat
print media, the percentage of intervention by
of environmental destruction; Suara Bangsaku
owners in editorial content in radio is not large.
(Voice of my Nation), a programme analyzing
Radio in Palu is mostly entertainment (less
current economic, social and political events;
news with lots entertainment and music),
Sehat Indonesiaku (Healthy Indonesia),
although some do carry news broadcasts, often
addressing health issues and possible solution.
relayed from an international or Jakarta based
Common Ground sends a radio drama series
network. However, dissemination is often
entitled Menteng Pangkalan to a number of
limited due to geographic factors and poor
radio stations in Palu through the 68H radio
broadcast equipment.32
network. The programme promotes pluralism
Radio seems to have been the most and peace, including ways for resolving
influential media during periods of conflict. conflict.
News can be spread rapidly, although the
content is harder to regulate for the editors and 3.2.6 Education and Skills
therefore not always professional. In periods Reporters based in Palu and Poso have
when the conflict has been dormant, the received considerable attention from national
information gathered indicated that the general and international organisations focusing on
public apparently preferred to listen to peace journalism. Those who have undertaken
entertainment-based radio, rather than those training in this area include, LSPP, which was
carrying a more news programmes. supported by the British Council, LP3ES, AJI
The radios in Central Sulawesi do, and PWI. Internews, KBR-68H and Common
however, seem to be trying to change the Ground have also provided capacity-building
image of, and interest in, news programmes. to broadcasters. 34
As an example, Radio Nebula currently
However, human resources continue to
broadcasts local news for 30 minutes per day
be an obstacle for the media, due to poor
and the rest is relayed programmes. Radio
Nugraha provides 20 minutes for local
access to education for media practitioners.
programmes, although this is mainly quoting Moreover, most media institutions hire
the news from local newspaper. The journalists with either high school diploma or
production costs of approximately Rp 10 Dip.HE, and only Radar Sulteng newspaper
million per month (Rp 5,5 millions for wages, hires graduates with Bachelor’s degree. RRI
the rest is for operational cost) seem to Palu has a centralised and routine training
undermine the willingness of the radios to programme. Of particular note, is that many
produce their own news. RRI reportedly has alternative media apparently have stronger
the only long-term news programme in Central human resource capacity than the
Sulawesi. The reach is wide through mainstream media.
programmes 1, 2 and 3 and supporting
operational equipments. 33 3.2.7 Safety Issues
During the conflict, the journalists worked
in difficult and hazardous circumstances during
30
KPKP-ST: Kelompok Perjuangan Kesetaraan the conflict in the province. It was dangerous to
Perempuan-Sulawesi Tengah (Central Sulawesi Group cover events in the Poso area during the peak
for the Struggle for Women’s Equality). of the violence. According to AJI Palu, at least
31
Interview with Soraya Sultan, Director of KPKP-
ST.
32 34
See Annex 8 (Audience Segmentation and Program Based on interviews, all print and electronic media
Composition, Presence/Absence of News Programs). have had received training from institutions such as
33
See Annexes 6 and 8. LP3ES, LSPP, KBR-68H, AJI, PWI.
22
one journalist was killed from Poso Pos after activities and mandate are apparently not well
losing contact with his colleagues. known in the province.
Furthermore, Poli Joris, managing editor of PRSSNI is the main private radio
Suara Maluku, was also almost killed when a broadcasting association. PRSSNI Central
bomb exploded and he was injured by Sulawesi branch activities are concerned with
shrapnel. Moreover, many Christian media coordinating the frequency usage and
practitioners choose to travel by sea, thereby advertisement distribution, as well as
avoiding travelling through Muslim villages by accreditation of institutions.
road. There are reportedly no recommended
safety standards or advice for media 3.2.9 Media Policy and Legislation
practitioners available from professional bodies The national policy regarding media
or associations in the province. influences the form and environment for the
provincial media. In this regard, the press law
3.2.8 Associations and Networks (No. 40/1999) provides for simpler media
The present radio and print journalist management requirements and decriminalises
associations in Central Sulawesi include AJI media-related offences, thereby removing
Kota Palu (Independent Journalist Alliance, custodial sentences. However, as with a recent
Palu town) and PWI Sulawesi Tengah case against Nuansa Pos, the legal system still
(Indonesian Journalist Association Central refers to criminal libel law in cases against the
Sulawesi branch). These two associations have media. Moreover, the criminal code (KUHP) is
held activities to improve the journalism used to determine financial penalties, which
quality in Central Sulawesi. Young journalists although smaller under the liable law, are
have tended to choose AJI, while PWI contains based upon broader definitions.
more senior journalists. AJI reportedly has
An ombudsmen institution has been
more members than PWI. AJI also has a wide
created in the form of the ‘Press Council’.
network, so journalists can meet and work with
Functions of the Council include monitoring
members outside Central Sulawesi. In some
cases of advocacy, AJI has taken a firm stance adherence to professional standards and
in defence of the media. Beside meetings, the ethics, as well as the resolution of legal
AJI community also has an e-mailing list. actions or complaints against the media. The
However, the services being provided by the Council has no authority to impose penalties,
associations do not seem to be that extensive, which remains under the legal authority of
mainly due to a lack of resources and the court, but also does not exclude recourse
knowledge about potential opportunities. In to legal channels at a later date if the
addition, as with elsewhere in the country, the resolution under the Council is
role of the associations as trade unions in unsatisfactory.35 However, the Press Council
securing collective agreements is not yet is centred in Jakarta and regional matters
established. regarding the media do not always come to
PWI Central Sulawesi and AJI Palu have their attention. Another obstacle is that
worked on anti-bribery campaigns and complaints can often not be quickly dealt
promoted the importance of forming unions. with.
The Press Worker Alliance (SPP) is also Following the passing of the broadcast law
working for the protection of media (No 32/ 2002) responsibility for the regional
practitioner’s rights. However, not all broadcast media rests with the Regional
provincial media are in a position to provide Independent Committee of Broadcasting
full wages and welfare benefits as demanded
by SPP and others.
A number of complaints against the media
have also been issued by consumers through
the Indonesian Consumer Organization
(Yayasan Lembaga Konsumen Indonesia /
YLKI). This institution has a regional network 35
Many press complaints or consumer’s complaints
including in Central Sulawesi, although its on press are not solved well.
23
(Komisi Penyiaran Indipenden Daerah).36 subscribers, poor distribution systems and

However, this has not yet been established in insufficient income from advertisement. There
Central Sulawesi. Many problems and are also problems connected to the
obstacles for the broadcast media derive from independence of the news, as the marketing
this state of affairs such as the confusion in division is often intertwined with the editorial
allocating and managing frequencies. departments. The biggest single income for
advertisement in the print media seems to be
3.2.10 Legal Cases and External congratulatory advertisements on national
Pressure days.37
A number of print media in Central In general, radios in Central Sulawesi are
Sulawesi have had to deal with external run on minimum operational costs. The radio
pressure relating to news coverage. Nuansa with the highest costs uses Rp 15 million per
Pos has been accused of inaccurate and month (most which have costs of Rp 10
libellous reporting twice. The first claim was million per month for wages and operational
filed by the family of Ruly Lamadjido, then the expenses). The private radio income comes
province’s governor, accusing the paper of mainly from public advertisements - national
defamation by reporting on the alleged murder and local (temporary). Only radios with
of woman. The second claim was related to a international marketing networks get better
corruption case involving the Office of Health revenue. It is due to these limitations that the
of Central Sulawesi, which went on to the local radios often do not have enough funds to
court of appeal. Bayu Alexander Montang, cover local news themselves.
Director-in-Chief of Nuansa Pos, claimed to
have abided by the principles of professional 3.2.12 Ownership, Employment and
journalism, but lost the case, which was tried ‘Envelope Journalism’
under the libel laws.
The independence of the media can be
Cases of external pressure against the directly correlated to the ownership and
media, including threats and attacks on media institutional orientation. Aside from business
practitioners and outlets, were also noted by the interests, the owner of the media can influence
assessment team. In one example, a local the editorial policy and management system. A
person of note apparently felt that a newspaper number of newspapers in Central Sulawesi are
had falsely reported about him and as a privately owned such as Nuansa Pos and Poso
consequence allegedly had his driver attack Pos. However, the legal entity of media
and beat the responsible journalist. business, including privately owned, is usually
a proprietary limited company (Perseroan
3.2.11 Revenue and Income Generation Terbatas / PT), except Koran MAL, which is a
Low circulation and poor retail markets are foundation (Yayasan Al Khairat Press / Al
the general picture of the print media in Central Khairat Press Foundation).38
Sulawesi. Most outlets have a low number of Although, theoretically, journalists should
not be engaged in the business and
36
KPI’s rights: Determining program standards, administration side of a media business, in
arranging regulation and determining broadcasting Central Sulawesi some journalist are also
manual; penalizing the violation of law and involved in advertising negotiations. The
broadcasting manual and program standards;
coordinating and cooperating with Government,
standard wages (some still pay the employee
broadcasting institution and people. KPI’s tasks: through an honorary system) and the lack
guaranteeing people to have proper and the right
information according to the human rights; helping the
management of broadcasting infrastructure; building
37
the sound competition inter-broadcasting institutions The biggest source of income for local newspapers
and industries; preserving the justice and balance comes from personal advertisement, although this type
national informational order; collecting, researching of ad is incidental. It depends on certain occasions e.g.
and responding people’s complaints, critics and when there is instalments of new government officials.
appreciation upon broadcasting service; managing the Their colleagues, counterparts from other institutions
human resource development guaranteeing or business partners will place ads to congratulate
professionalism in broadcasting. them.
38
See Annex 1.
24
management allows for this mix of working of media towards women and women’s
roles.39 issues.” 40
Most media apply the regional minimum

wage standard for employees’ salaries, 3.3 Provincial Traditional Media
although allowances are often not included. In
addition, many journalists are paid per news Central Sulawesi is home to at least three
piece submitted. The lack of standardised indigenous groups, the Kaili, Lore and Buol.
salary rates for journalists allows individual Each are concentrated in different
media to set their own levels. To get by, administrative regions, with the Kaili
journalists often double up as correspondents community mainly in Donggala District, the
for national media or have a second job Lore in Poso District, and the Buol in Toli-Toli
elsewhere. Such conditions have a direct District. Each group had its own form of local
impact on the capacity media institutions in institutions. The social stratification includes
Central Sulawesi. old and current patterns. Before contemporary
government and religious systems influenced
Envelope journalism is reportedly social change these were strengthening faith,
increasingly becoming a topic of discussion providing incentives, increasing the sense of
amongst journalists in Central Sulawesi, shame and increasing the sense of fear. These
although there were only a few journalists who groups also had strong ties with these natural
showed a firm commitment against this elements supporting life, related to their place
practice. In reality, the vast majority of of living and environment. Current changes
journalists are dependent on favours and have altered the shape and nature of these
bribes, both to maintain a reasonable income, communities, which eventually demanded a
as well as access resources, such as cultural change that has caused social tensions.
transportation, to allow them to do their work. The introduction and intervention of cultures
One deputy editor also stated that as long as it from outside that have also not helped in
did not influence the editorial policy and the mitigating these tensions. A research paper
manner of the journalism, it was acceptable. titled “Local Social Life Systems in Central
Sulawesi”, published by the Ministry of
3.2.13 Gender Education and Culture in 1980 and 1981,
The number of female journalists in the discussed the threat posed by this kind of
print media is relatively limited and there are excess as change increasingly alienated
apparently no exact figures about how many existing social institutions.
editors are women. The patriarchal culture Poso District is home to two indigenous
relating to gender roles can still be clearly seen groups, the Lore and Pamona. The first is
in the media. Many media managers assume concentrated in the two sub-districts of North
that women are much better indoors and should Lore and South Lore and is largely made up of
not be working in the field as reporters. Protestants and Catholics. This group lives next
Although, it was noted that the balance of to the Pamona community, who are
women working as DJs in the broadcast media concentrated in the Poso Pesisir sub-district.
was considerably higher, women were usually Living in the hills as farmers, the Lore
working in administrative capacities. As a topic community is seen as grouping together. Their
for coverage, gender issues are also apparently power to influence policymaking at the district
given limited coverage. Hj. Siti Haditjah and provincial level is supposedly concentrated
Toana, a community figure in Central in the sub-district capital of Tentena.
Sulawesi, stated: Meanwhile, the Pamona community relies on
“Women issues have yet to be exposed, fisheries and inhabits the coastal area of Poso,
particularly the 30-percent quota issue of and has ties to the Bugis, Makassar and
women legislators in the parliament. It Gorontalo people, migrant communities living
demonstrates the widespread lack of support in the region. Power to influence policymaking
40
Interview with Hj Siti Haditjah Toana, a community
figure in Central Sulawesi and provincial parliament
39
See Annex 3. legislator, 27 May 2004.
25
at the district and provincial level is leaders, who are mostly based in Poso town.
concentrated in the sub-district capital of Poso Dero is a forum marked by communal dances
Kota. based on a set choreography that is understood
by all community segments with people
3.3.1 Indigenous Community Forums holding hands in a circle symbolising unity.
and Ceremonies
Central Sulawesi is also well known by
The Poso District consists of 12 sub- festival of Lake Poso, which is a folk gathering
districts (Poso Kota, Poso Pesisir, Lage, South that was regularly held each year up until the
Lore, North Lore, Central Lore, Ampana Kota, conflict. This activity stopped for security
Ulubongka, Tojo, North Pamona, East Pamona reasons, as Tentena is a Christian area where it
South Pamona) and the region is inhabited by is considered hazardous by local communities
at least five ethnic groups that make up the for Muslim to travel.
adat (customary) community, including Lore,
Pamona, Baree, To po Ta and Tojo, with each 3.3.2 Migration, Local Government and
abiding by longstanding customs and rules. Organised Religion
Since long ago, conflict has often occurred
Population movements (including
among adat kings, or in this case local
transmigration and spontaneous/ unassisted
warlords, but there always has usually been a
migration), which have been ongoing for
mechanism to dampen the intensity of conflict.
sometime, have gradually eroded the
‘Sintuwu Maroso’ is the Central Sulawesi’s importance and belief in indigenous symbols
motto denoting unity. Then there is Baruga, and rituals. In addition, adat or social
meaning a place to meet face-to-face where institutions and values that were once referred
issues are resolved through prevailing adat to by locals in resolving conflict have been
mechanisms. Disputes between people from a largely eroded, in part through the introduction
single region will be resolved through Molibu, by the New Order of a standardized system of
but when it involves two or more regions and government at the village level.43 As a result,
tends to become larger, the Kayori adat ritual the forum once known as ‘baruga’ changed
is called for. Kayori means reciting poems by into the present Balai Desa (village hall).
turns and is concluded with Motambu Tanah, a
The coastal community in Central Sulawesi
ritual to bury the past that involves a buffalo
is mostly Muslim and concentrated in Poso
head as a symbol. Historically, the ritual
town and surroundings, while the inland
required the conflicting groups to make human
communities are dominated by Christian
sacrifices taken from the lower strata (slaves).
communities. The conflict was mainly
Motambu Tanah literally means a forum to
concentrated in two regions, Poso town with its
meet and resolve disputes.41
Muslim community and migrants, and North
During his national presidency, Pamona sub-district and its capital of Tentena
Abdurrahman Wahid (Gus Dur) visited Poso in with its Christian community.
August 2002. A ‘Rujuk Sintuwu Maroso’ peace
Local economic, political, social and
agreement, or popularly known as ‘Bersatu
cultural competition has taken place since long
Kuat’, was declared. Even so, the sacral event,
before the recent conflicts took on a religious
which was marked by the handing over of the
connotation. As stereotypes, the Muslim
agreement from fourteen local adat leaders to
community has marked itself as successful
the president, lacked effectiveness.42
merchants. Meanwhile, the Christian
‘Dero’, a forum that takes the form of an community is seen as increasingly losing
entertaining and recreational gathering, was ground in the competition. This is reflected in
halted when the conflict broke out, especially the makeup of the local government of Poso
so when it was banned by some Muslim district, with positions reportedly being mostly
filled by Muslims. This highly vulnerable
41
Discussion with academicians of the University of situation has made it easy for intruders to
Tadulako in the office of its Research Center on Peace trigger communal conflicts.
and Conflict (P4K Untad).
42
Tomy Waworundeng, Liputan Jurnalisme Damai:
Kerusuhan Poso dari Dua Sisi, Makasar, ELSIM,
43
2002, pp 105-112. Law No 5 / 1979 on Village Government.
26
In this regard, tensions were vented along province’s challenging topography and limited
religious lines and churches and mosques were cellular phone coverage have made it a useful
focal points for violence. Moreover, it is means of communication. Members of radio
alleged that at the time of conflict a number of networks are often affiliated to amateur radio
religious leaders incited violence in the form of organisations such as RAPI or ORARI
self-defence and based upon perceptions of Sulteng. It has also proven to be a significant
historical inevitability and enmity. However, in help with field coordination needs.
the post- conflict phase when calmer heads INFOKOM,45 a department of the provincial
prevailed, organised religion has often played a government that deals with communication
constructive role in trying to preach tolerance affairs in coordination with SATKORLAK,
and understanding to reduce conflict related depends heavily on handy-talkies, especially
tensions. when dealing with disaster and conflict
management issues.46
However, exactly how challenging a task it
3.4 New Information Technologies
is for SATKORLAK to coordinate and
3.4.1 Cellular Phone and SMS disseminate information is exemplified by the
situation during which the Poso conflict
Cellular phones have greatly changed erupted or a natural disaster struck: As stated
access to information in Central Sulawesi, by Haris Tandimuso, Coordinator of Central
although they have only been in operation Sulawesi’s SATKORLAK:
since early 2004 in Poso. The province’s
“We have a link going downwards in
community, particularly those residing in the
our network to which we must report every
districts of Palu and Poso, are now familiar time something happened. When reports
with this facility.44 The speedy access of from the District or Sub-district were late
cellular phones has placed it as a primary we’d firstly access news from local
means of communication, being utilised in newspapers, then television, and finally from
manner consistent with person to persons local radio stations” 47
dialogue, as well as the spread of rumour and
gossip (see below). 3.5 Information Flows
3.4.2 Internet 3.5.1 Rumour and Gossip
The Internet is becoming increasingly A number of persons interviewed in Poso

popular amongst selected groups in Palu. stated that the local community was rife with
Based on interviews with stakeholders, it is gossip and rumour. They stated that gossip and
often made use of by government, academia, rumour was usually exchanged around forums
private sector, and local and international such as marketplaces, residences, food stalls
NGOs. Most of the mainstream media also and deker. 48 Youths, in particular, apparently
uses the Internet as a communication and enjoy ‘sharing the latest gossip’ with one
information tool. The public, especially college another a form of social interaction. During the
students, have started to access the Internet for conflict, gossip on SARA (ethnic, religious,
entertainment and information needs.
Meanwhile, only a limited number of
individuals make use of the local Internet 45
provider as it applies long-distance call tariffs INFOKOM is a Bureau within the Governor’s
for its services. Furthermore, in Poso Internet Office, which handles public relations for the
provincial government. The exact name in Indonesian
access is very limited, with only one service is Biro Informasi dan Komunikasi (Biro Infokom)”..
provider at UNSIMAR University. 46
Interview with Haris Tandimuso, Coordinator of
Central Sulawesi’s Provincial Coordinating Body for
3.4.3 Handy Talky Disaster and IDP Management (Satkorlak PBP), 27
May 2004.
Handy-talkies are a popular 47
Interview with Haris Tandimuso, Coordinator of
communication tool in Central Sulawesi. The Central Sulawesi’s Coordinating Body for Disaster
and IDP Management (Satkorlak PBP), 27 May 2004.
44 48
Cellular phone coverage is not that good in Poso Deker is a local word denoting a place to gather and
Kota. sit on the sides of a concrete moat.
27
racial and class issues) issues was widespread.49 Christian community and vice versa. In
The interviewees also stated that rumour and addition, weak purchasing power and
gossip are hard to contain, and its impact can geographical factors also hinder the reach of
quickly fuel tensions. Ustad Abdul Gani T print media to rural areas. The same
Israil, an Islamic teacher and Chairman of the geographical factor also prevents the already
Kota Poso chapter of the Indonesian Ulemas weak transmission power of radio stations from
Council (Majelis Ulama Indonesia – MUI), reaching population in rural areas.
viewed rumour as having a major influence on
Although media access in the more remote
a person’s soul. The impact is beyond human
conflict-prone areas has improved, there is still
limits. He stated:
apparently poor access to mass media.
“I saw with my own eyes how innocent However, the emergence of alternative media,
and unaware people were slaughtered in the initiated at the local level, has greatly assisted
middle of the street. Both groups took part in in strengthening information flows.
this” 50
Rumours that were often groundless 3.5.3 Primary Source to Media
therefore influenced local communities Editors reportedly identified four main
relatively easily. This was particularly so in target groups as information sources for the
Poso where access to mass media was media, particularly relating to conflict. These
problematic and the general public therefore were religious leaders, military, police and
had few ways in which to verify information government. Members of the regional
and obtain more reliable, objective and parliament were also identified, but were
balanced interpretations of events. It was also widely considered to be partial in the conflict.
reported that the lack of objective information
fuelled feeling of insecurity and prompted the At the moment the relation between the
belief that communities were under attack and media and main identified information sources
needed to respond to the supposed atrocities of is good, although many often choose not to
the other side. provide information as the ‘safer option’ at a
time when professional standards amongst the
Ibu Mbose, a Poso resident and advocate media are not always dependable. As stated by
for women activities in her neighbourhood, Amirullah Sia, the Head of the Office for the
stated that the local community would no promotion of National Unity and Civil
longer blindly trust gossip before they have Protection (Kesbang Linmas/Kesatuan Bangsa
verified its truth. She stated: dan Perlindungan Masyarakat) of Poso district
“During the conflict lots of rumours did government:
the rounds, and at the time the community “Lets be objective, some less than
was easily provoked, but that’s no longer interesting local media cared more for the
true. Now we discuss a lot and do activities commercial prospect, and not how to keep
that lead to recovery of household the public informed” 52
economies that had suffered greatly during
the conflict” 51
3.5.2 Media to Consumer

Poor distribution and partition between
Muslim and Christian areas weakens print
media circulation. Media published by the
Muslim community cannot come into the
49
Interview with Sergeant Second Class Sudirman, 26
May 2004.
50
Interview with Ustad Abdul Gani T Israil, Chairman
of the Kota Poso chapter of MUI, Chairman II of the
Regional Board of Al-Khairat Poso, Administrator of
the Islamic boarding school Alkautzar Poso, Chairman
of MTsN Poso Pesisir, 28 May 2004.
51 52
Interview with Ibu Mbose, homemaker, resident of Interview with Amirudin Sia, Head of Kesbang
Tagolu Village, Lage Poso Sub-district, 26 May 2004. Linmas of Poso District, 28 May 2004.
28
4. Media and Conflict in Maluku
Ambon, which is the main urban area in in the 15th century.55 The Portuguese entered
Maluku and focal point for much of the the region in the early 16th century and from
violence, has an area of 377 square kilometres 1599 the Dutch started establishing settlements
and 206,210 inhabitants. The city is divided on the islands. The Dutch conquest was
along religious lines, with several quarters only completed in 1667. During the 16th and 17th
inhabited by Christians and others by Muslims. centuries the islands were a source of cloves,
nutmeg and mace. The islands were ruled by
This chapter provides an overview of the
the British in the periods 1796-1802 and 1810-
five main assessment areas for Maluku
1817, and occupied by the Japanese during
including (i) the mainstream media, (ii)
World War II.
alternative media, (iii) traditional media, (iv)
new information technologies and (v) Maluku formed part of the Dutch-inspired,
information flows. Although it provides an temporary autonomous state of East Indonesia
overview of the media situation, it does not in 1945 and existed as a separate colony of the
provide a holistic picture of all media outlets Netherlands until 1949. With the declaration of
and forms. Additional in-depth information can a unitary republic in 1950 to replace the federal
be found in the Annexes 10-14.53 state, South Maluku attempted to secede. The
revolt was led by Christian Ambonese from
4.1 Background to Conflict54 Ambon island and they formed the short-lived
Republic of South Moluccas, but finally ceded
The Maluku Islands were a part of the
to the independent Republic of Indonesia.
Javanese Majapahit Empire and the Shrivijaya
Since then, there has been intermittent ethnic
Empire (Sumatra) before Islam was introduced
and nationalist violence on the islands. Maluku
53
The research undertaken by ISAI between 23 and 30 formed one single province from 1950 until
June 2004 looked at the performance and development 1999. However, in 1999 North Maluku district
of the provincial mainstream, alternative and was split off as a separate province of North
traditional media in Maluku, as well as examined Maluku.
information flows from both local and national media
and their respective influence on the general public. A Recent Conflict in Maluku
sample of eleven respondents representing provincial
media stakeholders, community figures, religious For Maluku, the first major violent conflict
leaders, security forces, government, private sector and came in January 1999, when an argument in
the general public provided in-depth feedback on the Ambon City between a Christian passenger
role of the media relating to conflict. Resource persons and Muslim bus driver developed into a fight
were interviewed individually in neutral places. A between largely local groups of Muslims and
number of obstacles were faced in conducting the Christians. The fighting quickly spread to the
research. Most serious were the security consideration
surrounding islands. According to national
in the province, in particular as the assessment was
being conducted soon after the re-emerged tensions in Indonesian media reports, unsubstantiated and
the area. As an example a local researcher, Mey exaggerated gossip and rumours played a
Cresentya Rahail (a Christian), who befriended crucial role in this development.
another local researcher Sahira Sangaji (a Muslim),
had to keep some distance from her friend after an In the early days of the conflict local media
external party threatened her if they continued to frequently stopped reporting for periods
speak. This situation greatly restricted the freedom of because of physical threats or warnings from
movement for the five local researchers and the the conflict stakeholders. In early 1999, no
majority of information collected had to be done in the local radio stations in Ambon were
Ambon. Movement within Ambon was also restricted, broadcasting. The subsequent 18 months were
particularly based on the religion of the local
researchers.
54 55
This section is based upon the following sources: From Arabic phase "Al-Muluk" meaning "of kings",
Encyclopaedia Britannica 1999, Jakarta Post, OTI the areas was known by foreign traders as the “Spice
Field Report Indonesia (June 2000), Program on Islands”. Consist of a group of approximately 1,000
Humanitarian Policy and Conflict Research (Harvard islands with approx. 1,7 million inhabitants. The
University, USA), Human Rights Watch, Inside capital in Maluku is Ambon on the small Ambon
Indonesia, International Crisis Group. Island, whilst the capital in North Maluku is Ternate.
29
characterized by fighting, the destruction of 4.2 The Media in Maluku

thousands of houses, the displacement of
Much of the local media in Maluku are
approximately 500,000 people, the loss of
currently organised along sectarian lines and
thousands of lives, and the segregation of
has aroused considerable criticism for bias and
Muslims and Christians. In May 2000, Laskar
provocative reporting. Of particular note,
Jihad militia groups arrived in South Maluku,
Laskar Jihad also controlled a radio station,
whilst tensions rose further between religious
Radio Suara Perjuangan Muslim Maluku,
groups.
which was highly provocative in its broadcasts.
In June 2000, President Abdurrahman
Wahid declared a state of civil emergency and 4.2.1 National Media
by July there were approximately 14,000 Aside from local media, the general public
troops in Maluku. In late 2001, a reconciliation in Maluku (especially in Ambon) also receives
process started making its impact. A turning information from the national media. The
point was the December 2001 meeting national newspapers distributed in Ambon
between approximately 200 Muslim and include Media Indonesia and Kompas. These
Christian leaders in Yogyakarta to explore the two newspapers arrive in Ambon around 9 or
possibility of reaching reconciliation in 10am. However, there are no media from
Maluku. neighbouring provincial centres such as
A new stage in the Ambon conflict began Makassar and Manado in Ambon.
in 2002 as the violence by armed groups began There is also access to national TV
to subside. At the same time, in February 2002 channels. Programmes from TPI, SCTV,
the government made a breakthrough by Indosiar, Metro TV and other national
sponsoring peace talks held in Malino (a town television stations can usually be watched by
in Gowa district in South Sulawesi). The two local people with TV satellite dishes. In certain
sides agreed on eleven points, of which the areas such Urimesing, Hatalai, Negeri Lama,
most important was to cease violence, return there is also access to local TVRI, which both
the IDPs to their homes and respect for the relays news programmes from Jakarta and
law.56 covers local news.
As the situation became calmer in the
province, apart from Ambon City, people 4.2.2 Mainstream Print Media
started to return home. However, in spite of With the relaxation of publication laws,
numerous negotiations and the signing of a there has been a growth in print media in
peace agreement in February 2002, tension on Ambon. By 2002, several mass media
Ambon Island remained high until late 2002, publications appeared in Ambon and about
when a series of spontaneous 'mixings' thirteen newspapers were routinely published,
between previously hostile groups lead to a representing their communities. In Christian
sporadic, but generally increasingly stable communities, there were ten newspapers,
peace. published daily or weekly. Those papers were
In April 2004, tensions again rose in Bela Reformasi, Dhara Pos, Masnait, Seram
Ambon in the build up to 25 April - the Pos, Suara Maluku, Siwalima, Tragedi
anniversary of the declaration of an Maluku, Tual Pos, Dewa and Metro. In the
independent state in Maluku, when members Muslim community there were two
of the Maluku Sovereignty Front (FKM) raise newspapers, Ambon Ekspres and Info Baru.
independence flags (FKM has both Muslim Metro and Info Baru claim themselves as the
and Christian members). Although the causes neutral media. During the research period, only
and perpetrators of the violence remain Ambon Ekspres, Suara Maluku, Siwalima, Info
unclear, the result has been to re-inflame Baru, Metro, Dewa, Koran Info and the
tensions between communities in the province. Ekspresi publication – calling itself an
alternative media – were being regularly
published in the province.
The Siwalima paper was first published in
56
Eriyanto, Media dan Konflik Ambon, Jakarta, Radio October 1999 based on the motto “putting
68H-MDLF, 2003, hal. 171
30
unity and brotherhood to the fore.” According editorial facilities. They only have six
to Fredom Toumohu, the acting editor of the computers, two printers, and one camera for 10
paper, it was born from the ideas of several employees (6 persons in the editorial
Christian and Muslim leaders who wanted to department, two circulation and marketing
reunite the two communities. When the media personnel, and two advertisement personnel).
was being founded, leaders from both The newest paper is Dewa, established in
communities were present (the wife of January 2004. It motto is “Critical, Objective,
previous Maluku governor Dr. Saleh and Rational”. This daily paper was created by
Latuconsina was among the founders of the former employees of Siwalima newspaper. The
paper). However, as the paper is distributed in editors of the paper stated that, “at that time,
the Christian community, it is widely seen as a we were accused of being silly persons. To be
Christian paper. It is difficult to find the paper honest, we started the paper with only idealism
in the Muslim community, except in neutral and barely enough capital. But praised the lord,
areas such as government offices, where it can Dewa still exist until today”. 57
be seen alongside other newspapers.
4.2.3 Alternative Print Media
Ambon Ekspres, which was also founded
during the conflict period in July 1999 was at No regular alternative print media are
first owned by the Jawa Pos group. Most of the published in Ambon. Both Info Baru and
editorial staff of the Ambon Ekspres were Ekspresi tabloid described themselves as being
former journalists of the Suara Maluku, who alternative media, although per the definitions
resigned due to pressures related to the conflict. provided in section 1.1, they would be more
At that time, Ambon Ekspres started by accurately classified as mainstream media.
printing the weekly paper in Makassar. The Alternative media labour under financial,
news reports were sent by air or sea, depending human resources and distribution obstacles that
on the situation. In peacetimes, news reports prevent them from having a significant impact.
were put in diskettes and sent by plane, which Moreover, local magazines or media published
depart and arrive in the Christian-controlled by NGOs with the objectives to campaigning
area. When the conflict heated up, the editors for peace in Maluku are few. The appeal of
preferred to use ships, as the Ambon harbour is such media was reportedly generally low
located in the Muslim-controlled area. amongst the public surveyed.
Suara Maluku is one of the oldest papers in One source of alternative media during the
the province, established for the first time in heightened conflict periods was the Internet,
Ternate in 1956. In 1990’s, Suara Maluku which often published provocative news
moved to Ambon with the motto of “Develop claiming to speak on behalf of certain religious
Together to Have Fair and Prosperous groups (as further explained under 4.4.2).
Society”. Gradually it was changed into a However, the majority of these have not been
broadsheet format, with a new motto of “From continued after the conflict.
Maluku to New Indonesia”. On May 1990,
Suara Maluku Foundation started to work 4.2.4 Broadcast Media
together with the Jawa Pos Group, but by June In the broadcast media, there are radio
2003 Suara Maluku decided to separate from Dhara, DMS, Gelora Merpati Nusantara,
the Group. According to the Suara Maluku Manusela, RRI, Sangkakala and Yournex.
managing editor, Novi Pinontoan, the Those radios are in the Christian community.
disagreement started when the Jawa Pos There are also radio Kabaresi, Naviri, SPMM
management allegedly pushed Suara Maluku and Suara Pelangi in the Muslim community.58
to change its name into Maluku Ekspres. However, not all the print and broadcast media
Another alleged reason was that the Jawa Pos mentioned above survived to 2004.
management had decided to support the former
Muslim personnel of Suara Maluku in Before the conflict in January 1999, there
establishing the Ambon Ekspres. were three radio stations in operation in
Ambon (not including RRI). These radios were
Koran Metro was established in November
2003, when the situation in Ambon was more 57
Interview with editor of Dewa newspaper.
secure. This daily newspaper has only limited 58
See Annex 10.
31
Sangkakala, Manusela and Gelora Merpati Editors of the paper have also participated in
Ambon. Sangkala was established in 1991. several trainings on conflict resolution and
Most of its broadcasting was religious news peace journalism. However, they felt they had
and church services. Gelora Merpati focused insufficient capability to adequately address
on entertainment, as did Manusela. After 1999, resurgences in the conflict as seen in April
there were five new radio stations established 2004. Several other editors in Ambon also
in Ambon: Dutama Musik Serasi (DMS), stated that they would not report on incidents
Naviri (broadcasting mostly preaching, songs that might cause further unrest. However, in
and Al Quran readings), Yournex (focuses on practice it is difficult, as one editors stated:
religious news), Bhara (general broadcasting), “The process is very complex, especially in
and Suara Perjuangan Muslim Maluku the midst of an ongoing conflict. I always tell
(SPMM) – reportedly controlled by Laskar my journalists that although personal
Jihad and declared to be fighting for Islam in preferences do influence one’s reports, one
Ambon. SPMM routinely broadcast ‘tabligh should not be completely subjective”
akbar’ (preaching and chanting of Quranic
The editors of Koran Metro stated that it
verses by a gathering of Muslim adherents) - to
was often difficult to prevent emotional content
push and encourage the Islamic spirit to fight
from its reporters. Aner Leunufna stated:
against Christians. Often, the tabligh akbar
was regarded by Christian listeners as the call “We cannot deny that Maluku’s situation is
to violence against Christians. The Christian very sensitive. We might not realize that
community leaders even asked the Maluku during the conflict, emotional bursts of each
community are transferred to reporters and
Governor to ban the radio.59
then to the reports. It is the reality”61
4.2.5 Media Content Most of the radio in Ambon usually
The decrease in conflict has created more presents their programmes in three forms.
editorial freedom for the media in Maluku. These are quoting the news from the print
John S. Uhurella, the traditional leader (Raja) media in Ambon, making its own programmes
of Tuhulele village, stated that editorial or relaying national/international programmes,
freedom in Ambon is now much better than and broadcasting live news or delay
from 1999 to 2001. According to him, the broadcasting from mosques, churches, tablik
news has improved and is more responsible. akbar, and so forth.62
“The journalists maybe tired of the Among the radio stations, both Duta Musik
provocative news. The news nowadays is Suara (DMS) and Pelangi, sought to address
much more peaceful. Even when the RMS conflict issues. However, most of the radios
conflict took place, the news was very prefer to relay the news from both inside and
neutral” 60 outside the country, from networks including
The majority of media editors and owners the BBC, KBR 68H and RRI. The reason
interviewed professed to have the same behind this is that it is cheaper than to have
motivation, which was to create a neutral reporters covering local news. Another reason
media and contribute to conflict reduction and was the lack of the operational resources.
resolution. However, the reality has shown that Furthermore, it seems that the stronger media
this is hard to achieve due to underdeveloped are those that have linked themselves to wider
professionalism, lack of resources, poor access networks, such as Jawa Pos Group and Radio,
to information and public pressure are among KBR 68 H, BBC, Voice of America (VoA)
the causes. and so forth.
The editor of Suara Maluku stated that There have been a number of peace
although they are called a Christian paper, they journalism training activities in the province.
have used various ways to maintain the balance AJI has worked with the British Council to
of the news regarding the two communities. provide such activities. In Ambon, AJI’s also
59 61
Media dan Konflik Ambon (ISAI, Eriyanto, Jakarta Interview with Aner Leunufna, Redaktur Pelaksana
2003) Koran Metro, 1 Juni 2004
60 62
Interview with John S Uhurelle, Raja Negeri Media dan Konflik Ambon (ISAI, Eriyanto, Jakarta
Tuhulele Ambon, 10 Juni 2003 2003)
32
established the Maluku Media Center (MMC), high school. Nevertheless, Marthin Langoday,
which indirectly monitor the media in Ambon. chief editor of Dewa, said he is still trustful of
the abilities of his reporters. Trainings held by
4.2.6 Education and Skills national and international organisations have
Many of the media have sought to increase been very useful in increasing the journalist’s
the quality of their outlets by recruiting staff capacity. Mr. Langoday stated:
with a university education. The Ambon “Most of our journalists have joined the
Ekspres Chief Editor informed the assessment trainings, whether it is about peace
team that when he recruits journalists for the journalism, journalist role in conflict area by
first time, he often has to teach them how to British Council, the writing and covering
type and give them basic journalism skills. techniques by AJI or even how to cover the
Furthermore, as one editor stated: election process”
“It is hard to find a journalist here. In Koran Metro has six editorial staff
Ambon, journalism is not very popular as a (including the editor), four of whom have
profession, because of the low income” degrees. However, none have joined
journalism training, even when it was offered
Many of the journalists in Ambon now for free.
have degree-level education. In Ambon
Ekspres, there is only one of ten journalists that As a generalisation, it was found that the
have not finished his/her studies. The majority gradually increasing capacity of journalists in
of employees in the layout and printing the province is substantially derived from the
departments have graduated from senior high continued training activities of the professional
school. Staff at the paper are well-trained due bodies and national and international
to the involvement with the Jawa Pos Group, institutions.
which holds regular sessions in Makassar and
Surabaya. A number of journalists also 4.2.7 Safety Issues
routinely join trainings being run by Working in Ambon posses considerable
professional bodies, such PWI, AJI, and Elsim safety concerns for media practitioners.
(Makassar). Pressure comes not only from groups in the
In Suara Maluku, five of eight journalists community not satisfied with the content, but
(including the chief editor) are Bachelor degree also from the authorities, who are allegedly
graduates.63 The three other are still doing their hostile towards the media. However, in the last
studies in the university. According to the two years, pressure on the media has reduced
editor, Novi Pinontoan, it is hard to find a well somewhat compared to the intense periods of
prepared journalist with a degree. That is why violence from 1999 to 2001.
they open the chance for college students to The conflict has also forced many of the
work in the paper. This way they can be trained media to move their offices to the communities
in-house. with which they are associated. Elly Sutrahitu,
For Siwalima newspaper, six of twelve the general manager of Suara Maluku, stated
editorial members have degrees. The rest have that the difficulty in eliminating the traumas of
graduated from high school. According to the conflict forced the management to move its
Fredom Toumohu, managing editor of offices in October 2003 to a “safe” area, in this
Siwalima, a few journalists have been trained case, being in the Christian community.
by AJI about the news writing, news covering Moreover, the threats posed to the security
techniques, and how to write when the conflict of the media still exist. During the latest surge
occurs. in violence, the leader of an anti-RMS group,
In Dewa newspaper, five reporters have Salim Said Bahasoan, demanded that the
their degree in undergraduate, diploma and military arrest the editor in chief of Siwalima,
Selfanus Latekay, accusing him of supporting
63
RMS. This allegedly surprised the editor since
See Annex 12. they had tried to maintain a balance in their
news. The editor stated:
33
“We then reached the conclusion, that 1. Campaigning for the improvement of
[regardless of the content of the media] in a journalist professionalism through training
conflict condition, no media will be seen as and education.
presenting completely objective news”
2. Support for journalist professionalism
4.2.8 Associations and Networks improvement through training and
education.
The Indonesian Journalist Association 3. Assist and mediating the practice of peace
(PWI) is the only professional organisation for journalism.
journalists with a local representative and
branch in Ambon. Young journalists are 4. Advocacy for journalist.
reportedly not interested in joining PWI. As a Furthermore, under the auspices of the
generalisation, Ambon’s young journalists MMC, the Moluccan journalists community
seem to disagree with the previous has committed itself to peace through a four
involvement of PWI with the New Order and points declaration, stating:
consider the association to be slow in keeping 1. We, the Maluku journalists, promise to
up with current trends. PWI is also seen as encourage the process of reconciliation
dominated an older generation of journalists and peace in Maluku.
who are no longer so active.
2. We, the Maluku journalists, promise to
The Ambon chapter of the Indonesian give priority in making the heartening and
Independent Journalist Alliance (AJI) is not yet not provocative news.
established. However, AJI has supported the 3. We, the Maluku journalists, promise to be
establishment of the Maluku Media Center professional in conducting the profession.
(MMC). AJI also undertakes advocacy for
4. Proclaim the government and security
journalists through the MMC and encourages
officers to solve the separatism issues,
reconciliation through peace journalism. In
violence and terror by enforcing the law
addition to the print media, many of the
consistently.
broadcast media reporters are also members of
the MMC. At the current time, MMC has adopted a
role similar to that of the Indonesian
The Maluku Media Center is an initiative
Consumers Institute Foundation (Yayasan
by the Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI
Lembaga Konsumen Indonesia - YLKI) by
Indonesia) and the peace movement, Baku
receiving complaints. MMC also warns media
Bae, to reconcile the Muslim and Christian
allegedly breaking professional standards or
journalists succeeded in establishing a joint
harming sources by publishing irresponsible
media centre in the neutral zone at Mardika,
news.
which provides a place where journalists can
meet and trade information, reduce The National Private Radio Association
occupational hazards and improve relations. (PRSSNI) is present in Maluku, but is
The Maluku Media Centre (MMC) was reportedly not very active. There are no
attacked in August 2003 by a group of services like the Indonesian Consumer
youngsters, who reportedly wanted to avenge a Institution (YLKI) in the province working to
friend who claimed to have been beaten at the defend the interest of consumers. The Press
site. Worker Union (SPP) is also reportedly not
very active in the province, although this
The MMC was founded by AJI and Baku
institution is theoretically important for
Bae with support from the British Council
defending journalist’s rights (particularly
based upon the concept of bringing Christian
pertaining to salary, subsidies and so forth).
and Muslim journalists together, monitoring
and advocacy and addressing the conflict. The 4.2.9 Media Policy and Legislation
MMC gradually provided training and news
coverage on the situation in the province to The laws applied to media related cases by
national and international media. In 2001, a the local courts tend to be the criminal code
number of Maluku journalists held a strategic (KUHP), which contradicts the Press Law (No
planning meeting for the MMC and decided 40/1999). Moreover, there is no independent
the new missions for the Centre would be: ombudsman at the local level to focus on
34
content and violations monitoring and brought to court. Most of the cases are resolved
advocacy for the local media. The Press through ‘Letters to the Editor’. One of the
Council in Jakarta, as the supervising biggest pressures allegedly experienced by the
institution, is limited since their function is print and broadcast media is from the security
only to accept review cases and provide personnel or government officials who claim
support. that the media has published provocative news.
Edmon Tupan, TVRI reporter in Ambon, was
The electronic media (radio) is also in the
reportedly subjected to violent act by the
same position. The Independent Broadcasting
security personnel when covering a riot in
Committee (KPI) that should control the
Urimessing and Ponegoro.64
practices of the broadcast media is yet to be
formed, creating an unregulated media
4.2.11 Revenue and Income Generation
environment open to manipulation and less
able to play a professional role. Of concern for the media in Maluku is the
lack of a strong marketplace. Investors are
4.2.10 Legal Cases and External reluctant to invest in the printing machines
Pressure (due to the high cost), printing house’s are
The media in Ambon often experiences averse to giving credit to publishers (generally
pressures from certain groups that are not they want a cash payment) and it is hard for
satisfied with the content. Most of the pressure new media to compete since agents tend to
usually comes in the form of protest, including support older newspapers.
complaints to the police and acts of violence. The conflict has also significantly reduced
As an example, during a period of the advertising market in Maluku. The main
heightened conflict in August 2001, the advertisers are local government, national and
Maluku Governor, Saleh Latuconsina, gave international conflict resolution organisations.
instructions that the media limit its coverage on As an example, one print media only earns Rp
the Maluku Sovereignty Front (Front 6-7 millions per month from advertisements.
Kedaulatan Maluku - FKM) led by Alex The print media survives on an
Manuputty. The Governor’s reason was that approximate readership of 30% of the
news about FKM could influence security inhabitants of Ambon and the districts of Tual,
conditions. The governor even threatened to Masohi, Dobo, Namlea and West South-east
take legal measures if journalists insisted on Maluku (MTB). Most of the media are sold by
covering FKM and its activities. The decision retail instead of subscriptions. According to
No. 09a/PDSDM/IV/2001, dated 17 April Novi Pintontoan, the acting editor of Suara
2001, was circulated among the media. At the Maluku, it is more effective as there is no
same time, Polis Joris (Suara Maluku) and guarantee of security in Ambon. During the
Lavy Kariu (Siwa Lima) traveled to Seram 1999 riots, Suara Maluku lost around 3,000
Island to cover a reconciliation meeting. While subscribers who left the region, not having paid
at sea, Joris and Kariu allegedly did not realize their subscription fees.
that they were in the same boat with FKM
After the conflict, Ambon Ekspres is
leader Alex Manuputty. When the speedboat
reportedly the only media that survived with a
pulled over, they were reportedly shocked and
circulation of 6,000. According to Ahmad
both decided to stay in the island due the
Ibrahim, they could sell the paper to 5,600
security risk of being on the same boat as the
persons, with the 3,000 regular readers in
FKM leader. Joris and Kariu then reported the
Ambon and 1,200 subscribers in other areas,
presence of the FKM leader to the police, but
such in Masohi, Tual, Dobo, and Namlea.
as soon as they left the police station they were
Ambon Ekspres could therefore break-even.65
kicked and beaten by TNI/military members
Other media, such Suara Maluku were harder
who suspected that they were FKM
hit by the drastic decrease in circulation. This
sympathisers.
paper fell from a circulation of 11,000 to
At the current time, much of the pressure 1,200-1,500 as a result of the conflict.
on the media comes from those who feel that
their names or causes have been defamed. 64
Media dan Konflik Ambon (Eriyanto, Jakarta, 2003)
However, almost none of these cases are 65
See Annex 13.
35
Other papers, like Siwalima have a problem that has been bothering most of the
circulation of 4,000. The newspaper also media in Ambon is the lack of high quality
chooses to use the government printing human resources. The average income for
company (Percetakan Negara). Most of the reporter in Ambon is around Rp 350-600
copies are distributed through agents in Ambon thousands, and new media have employed
city. In addition, the paper is also sold in journalists willing to work for a small
Saparua district, Tual, West South-east Maluku paycheck.66 Most journalists also have other
(MTB) and Masohi. sources of income. Thus, much of the financial
incentive for reporters comes from envelope
Info Baru newspaper chooses to market its
journalism, whereby the journalist is paid to
product only in Ambon. Mochtar Touwe said
cover a certain issue by those he/she is
they would like to try to attract more consistent
reporting on. Journalists commonly justify this
subscriber inside the town rather than outside.
practice by saying that it does not influence the
At present, Info Baru prints around 3,000
news. Likewise, they claim their involvement
copies at PT Ambon Press Intermedia.
in negotiations for advertisement for their
Potential readership in town reportedly
media also does not influence their reporting,
includes both in Christian and Muslim
for which they usually earn about 10 to 20
communities. Metro prints about 1,500 copies,
percent of the total.
although usually only 1,000 are sold.
Marketing activities are also undertaken in Based on interviews with a number of
other districts, including Masohi, Tual, West media managers, accepting envelopes (money)
South-east Maluku (MTB) and Namlea. was not a mistake if the news source was not
directing the journalist on what to write. As
4.2.12 Expenses and Institutional such, this was considered to be transport
Resources money, rather than bribes.
The radio stations in Maluku reportedly do Media managers have reportedly sought to
not have high operational costs. However, the diversify the backgrounds of their staff by
conflict has had lasting effects in undermining recruiting from different communities. The
the institutional resources of the media. As the Suara Maluku, regarded as a Christian paper,
editor of Suara Maluku, said Novi Pinontoan, employs two Muslims to distribute its
stated: publications to Muslim areas. Ambon Ekspres,
“To be honest, we need to refresh the labelled as a Muslim paper, employs six
modern paper management... We used to Christians. Ahmad Ibrahim, the editor in chief
have good assets in Ambon. But when the of Ambon Ekspres, stated:
conflict started, everything ruined. We need
“We recruited them in order to show that
physical and material assistance”
this paper is owned by everyone, in order to
For example, Koran Metro only has six balance the news. If there are news from the
computers, two printers, and one camera for 10 Christian point of view, we publish it” 67
employees (6 persons in the editorial
department, two circulation and marketing 4.2.14 Gender
personnel, and two advertisement personnel). There are only a few female journalists in
As stated by Aner Leunufna, the Koran Metro Maluku. The Ambon Ekspres newspaper, for
managing editor: example, has only one female reporter who has
“The limited equipment usually makes the been working there for three years. The same
schedule late. Sometimes, the journalists applies to Suara Maluku and Koran Info, both
have to wait for their office mates to finish of which have only one female journalist. The
their job” same limited number of female journalist is
seen in the broadcast media, such Suara
4.2.13 Employment and ‘Envelope Pelangi radio, which has one female journalist
Journalism’ who doubles as a reporter and an announcer.
The growth in the media sector
significantly expanded the number of media 66
See Annex 12.
practitioners working in the province, with an 67
Interview with Ahmad Ibrahim, Pimpinan Redaksi
average income of Rp 350-450,000. One major Ambon Ekspres, 28 Mei 2004, Ambon
36
According to Ahmad Ibrahim, chief editor violence in April 2004, community leaders
of Ambon Ekspres, his media gives priority to from the villages of Passo and Batumerah,
women to work in Ambon Ekspres. The which has a pela alliance, communicated
problem is that only a few women apply for directly to anticipate the spread of tensions in
reporter positions. However, underlying their communities. Theresia Maitimu stated:
attitudes amongst male journalist appeared to “If issues about these two villages are
be that women had limitations, particularly raised, we could directly counter the issues,
when covering the news in conflict situation. so that violence would not happen”
Women are therefore more often assigned to
cover ‘softer’ issues, for which they are Communities in Maluku also recognise the
considered more suitable. Moreover, much of traditional ceremonies associated with pela
the media in Ambon seems apathetic to gandong alliance such as ‘panas pela’
women’s issues. Most of the women who work (warming the pela). However, these
in the print and broadcast media in Ambon are ceremonies were apparently little known
placed in the marketing, advertisement and amongst youth and were considered rigid and
financial sections. These jobs are considered unpopular. Youth seemingly preferred
more appropriate for women, who are mainstream popular culture and commercial
apparently seen as being more meticulous in shows.
dealing with details. Before the 1980s, village heads used to be
the traditional 'rajah' in Central Maluku. Then
the authorities introduced a new law on village
4.3 Provincial Traditional Media government (Law No. 5 / 1979) that ruled all
Conflict resolution through traditional villages in Indonesia would be like a Javanese
media is not new to Maluku. Before the 'desa' with a 'kepala desa'. In some cases, such
conflict in 1999, Ambon already knew as Passo village, the 'kepala desa' is also the
traditional media to unite two fighting sides. 'rajah', however this is not usually the case.
According to Ichsan Malik, traditional media There is also the 'latupati', which is the
allows communities to fall back on common traditional leader associated with a collection
cultural and social values such as Pata Siwa of villages. Whilst the local authorities appoint
and Pata Lima (back as brothers and family). 68 the 'kepala desa', this is not the case for the
Ichsan also asserted that these traditional media 'rajah' or 'latupati'. In this regard, the
had been well integrated into contemporary authorities sometime act as the government
societal and political systems and were central apparatus that inaugurates local leaders and as
to mediating conflict. such the traditional and government structures
can work side-by-side in maintaining the
4.3.1 Community Forums and traditional governance culture.
Ceremonies
‘Tari cakalele’ is one of the most
performed dance ceremonies in the province. 4.4 New Information Technologies
The dance is held at the ‘baileo’ (traditional 4.4.1 Cellular Phone and SMS
house). The objective of this activity is to unite
Cellular phones are an increasingly
communities, especially those that have ‘pela
significant form of communication in Maluku
gandong’ alliances or relations.69 This
(especially in Ambon). The network in Ambon
traditional relationship can allow for easier
is run by Simpati Nusantara/ Telkomsel. Some
coordination and communication between
community leaders, especially in times of Central Maluku. The ceremony itself reportedly
tension.70 For example, during the most recent derives from the story between Desa Passo (Passo
village) under the Ternate Sultanate. The story states
68
Lihat Ichsan Malik, Menata Masa Depan Maluku that a long time ago, when a delegation of Desa Passo
Pasca Konflik, Makalah Diskusi, Juni 2004 was on their sea journey to pay tribute to Ternate
69
See http://www.nunusaku.com/Research/R4c.htm Sultanate (North Maluku), their boat capsized and they
for a description of Pela Gandong. were washed ashore on an island called Tanjung Pela
70
“Pela” and “pela gandong” describe the alliances, (sacred cape). There they declared brotherhood by
relationships and associated ceremonies between turning over a rock. Since then it has been traditional
specific Muslim and Christian villages in Ambon and to declare brotherhood or Pela Gandong.
37
shops in Ambon also sell cell phone vouchers. Christian sites. These are often multi-lingual, in
There is a strong signal in Ambon that can be Dutch, Indonesian and English. These include
easily received, both in Muslim and Christian the Voice from Maluku (www.geocities.com
area. The use of cell phones serves to increase /chosye). This site compiles news clippings
the speed and breadth of person-to-person about Maluku. There was also Maluku 2000
communication, the substance of which seem (www.maluku2000.org). The provocative sites
to mainly be similar to dialogue, rumour and were also present at that time of conflict such
gossip. In this regard, if based upon accurate as Ambon Berdarah Online
information from the mass media, this form of (www.geocities.com/alifuru67) and the
speedy communication can serve a positive Lawamena Victoria site (www.geocities.com
benefit, although if based on misinformation it /jembong_710).
could aggravate tensions at an alarmingly
quick rate. 4.4.3 Handy Talky
At present handy talkies are used
4.4.2 Internet
extensively for communication. In 1999 to
Access to information via the Internet is 2001, handy talky became the main
limited in Maluku. The majority of people communication device, particularly when other
receive news from newspapers, radio, forms of communication and mass media
television and SMS. There are not many either broke down or were obstructed. The
Internet cafes in Ambon and access is often security forces also depended on handy talkies
slow and problematic. In 2002, Ambon Ekspres as their main form for communication.
opened an Internet cafe (for public use) using
VSAT technology. Although the Internet 4.4.4 VCD
access is good, it does not attract many VCD is one of the most accessible
members of the public. As a result in 2003 the mediums in Maluku. In stores and markets,
cafe closed. Before it was closed, it often used non-copyrighted movie and music VCDs are
by Ambon journalists to send news for media sold cheaply. Each costs around Rp 5,000 (less
in Jakarta. However, most of the journalists in than US$1). When conflict started, VCD
Ambon who work as correspondent for became an effective medium in mobilizing the
national media choose to send their stories by support. VCDs about ‘enemy attacks’ or
fax instead. victims of the violence were easily made and
When the conflict was at its peak from fuelled tensions. Of particular note on the
1999 to 2001, the majority of websites about Christian side was the VCD entitled, Tragedi
conflict were set up by people outside of Maluku (1999). This included scenes of
Ambon. Moreover, the ‘information war’ burning churches and alleged partiality by the
between Muslim and Christian communities security forces towards to the Muslim
was often conducted through the Internet. This community. Another similar VCD entitled
started in March 1999, based upon websites Ambon Berdarah was also released in 1999.
and mailing lists. Each site consists of its own On the Muslim side there was a VCD
version (Muslim or Christian) of the entitled Jihad Fi Jazirah Al Mulk made in June
chronological events in the conflict, photos 2000. This depicts the struggle of the Muslims
from the battle field and the traumatic stories of against Christians, showing attacks by
atrocities. Christian groups and the Muslim victims.
There are many sites about the Ambon Another VCD, Jihad di Diponegoro (2000)
conflict made by Muslim and Christian groups. informs about the ‘battle’ against the Christian
Of the Muslim sites, the most well known in the Diponegoro area of Ambon. Most of the
include the site of Laskar Jihad Muslim VCDs are about the conflict in North
(www.laskarjihad.or.id). There is also the Halmahera, Galela, Tobelo, dan Jailolo in early
Karomah site (www.karomah.cjb.net). Others 2000. These VCDs include Mujahidin
are Suara Ambon Online (www.come.to/ Halmahera Bangkit (2000), Hidup Mulia atau
suaraambon), Come and Save Muslims Mati Syahid (2000), Halmahera Berduka
(www.connect.to/maluku) and Gema Khadijah (2000) and Maluku Berduka (2000). Beside
(www.gemakhadijah.cjb.net). There were also from these, other VCDs were produce showing
38
pictures from the violence, such Maluku culture of tolerance and non-violence. Under a
Berduka (2000) and Konflik Berdarah Maluku UNDP grant, since May 2003 MDLF has been
2000 (this VCD was also produced in an implementing a programme supporting media
Arabic version).71 development designed to facilitate a return to
long-term peace and stability in the province,
4.5 Information Flows while simultaneously responding to the above
issues in the province. Some of the activities
4.5.1 Rumour and Gossip
being covered under the programme include
Rumour and gossip seemingly carries the establishment of three new public service
significant influence in Maluku. Much violence oriented radio stations Radio Binaya (in
allegedly occurred subsequent to the Masohi, Seram island and Central Maluku),
unchecked spread of false rumours. Such and two others in Namlea, Buru island and in
gossip seemingly spread quickly in Ambon due Saumlaki, Tanimbar islands. The aim of these
to the limited size of the communities. The activities is to provide media in areas that
most popular issues in Ambon appear to be otherwise do not have a diverse and reliable
alleged plans of one community to attack the access to objective professional media.74
other. The mediums for spreading these
rumours are usually SMS, dialogue and ‘hush- 4.5.3 Primary Source to Media
hush’. 72
Fredom Toumahu, the managing editor of
Siwalima, stated that it was hard to get
4.5.2 Media to Consumer
verification from certain primary sources,
During the conflict, bombastic news which is why the media often published the
without clear verification became the mainstay news without any confirmation or verification.
of reporting distributed by many local media. Fredom Toumahu stated:
This was often disseminated rapidly and
“The reason is because of the condition. The
without consideration for the potential sources are usually located in other
consequences. Poor distribution and the communities and therefore difficult to
partition of Muslim and Christian areas further access” 75
weakened access to diverse information
sources for the general public. In this regard, The trouble of accessing primary sources
the conflict-intensifying impact of the media was a serious obstacle for all media in Maluku.
was further reinforced as journalists used Of note however, was the increasing use of
rumour and gossip as their basis for reporting. SMS to get sources to confirm or deny factual
Thus much of reporting reflected the information. However, another significant
unsubstantiated gossip that was already obstacle was that community leaders often did
circulating in the province, thereby reinforcing not agree to interviews with journalist from
it and giving it added credibility. During this different communities. Some media had tried
period the local government also involved to get around this obstacle by using journalists
itself, warning the media against inflammatory from other communities.
and unsubstantiated reporting.73 It is also apparent that the media rely
There is also a ‘media vacuum’ in Maluku. extensively on the local government and
Firstly, there are areas where there is extremely security forces as the main primary source of
limited media access that leaves significant information. However, the ‘one door’ policy
sectors of the population without accurate and hinders the ability of journalists to both
timely information about local and national maintain professional standards and keep to
issues. Secondly, there are only a small number their deadlines. Officials are often unavailable
of media focusing on the promotion of a and the dependency on single sources means
that the same stories and angles are often
repeated between media, thereby reducing
71
Dikutip dari Eriyanto, Media dan Konflik Ambon,
Jakarta, Radio 68H-MDLF, 2003, hal. 15-17
72 74
Hush-Hush is the locally used term for false rumour ‘Second Interim Narrative Report, Maluku Media
or gossip that cannot be substantiated. development Program’, (MDLF, April 2004)
73 75
Wawancara Erenst Tanimahu, Wakil Kepala Dinas Wawancara Fredom Toumahu, Redaktur Pelaksana
Informasi dan Komunikasi Ambon, 1 Juni 2004 Siwalima, 31 Mei 2004
39
reporting innovation and diversity in news

content.
40
5. Media and Conflict in North Maluku
Geographically, North Maluku is an 5.1 Background to Conflict77

archipelago covering 22,427 sq. km with a
Ternate was the first part of the Maluku to
number of small islands and roughly three-
accept Islam and an important sultanate from
quarters of a million people. Ternate Island is
the 12th to 17th century. The Portuguese came
the current seat of provincial government for
in 1512 to ship cloves and construct a fort,
the nearly 320 islands and four regional
leading to decades of conflict, first with the
Sultanates including Ternate, Tidore, Bacan
reigning sultans of Ternate and Tidore then
and Jailolo. Christianity and Islam are the
later among the Spanish, English and Dutch.
dominant organised religions, although in the
The natives conquered the fort and expelled the
interior many people are reportedly animists.
Portuguese in 1574 and in 1606 the Sultan of
The mainstream media in North Maluku is
Ternate signed a treaty with the Dutch and
mainly concentrated in Ternate with its
granted them a spice monopoly. The Sultan
population of approximately 200,000, whilst
became a vassal of the Dutch East India
other areas, such as Tobelo, also house a few
Company. However, by the end of the 18th
outlets.
century the spice trade had greatly diminished
Administratively, North Maluku province and the area became an economic backwater.
is divided into eight districts. Those districts
Regional tensions were aggravated during
are Central Halmahera, East Halmahera, North
the Suharto period, setting the stage for future
Halmahera, South Halmahera, West
conflict. In 1975, the exclusively Moslem
Halmahera, Sula Island, Tidore Island, and
Makians were resettled in the Kao District of
Ternate City. Due to the significant distances
northern Halmahera, due to fears of volcanic
involved, this make dissemination problematic
eruptions on their island. The Makians and Kao
as it must be mainly undertaken by sea, which
came into conflict because of a forced transfer
is slow and unreliable. As a result, most media
of Kao land to Makians, cultural and religious
focus their marketing and base their content on
differences and competition over scarce
Ternate.
resources.
This chapter provides an overview of the
Recent Conflict in North Maluku
five main assessment areas for North Maluku
including (i) the mainstream media, (ii) The recent conflict in North Maluku
alternative media, (iii) traditional media, (iv) occurred nearly simultaneously with the
new information technologies and (v) conflict in Maluku. However, different with the
information flows. Although it provides an
overview of the media situation, it does not assessed the conflict resolution efforts by the media
provide a holistic picture of all media outlets managers through the editorial policy in North
and forms. Additional in-depth information can Maluku. The assessment was also carried out on
be found in Annexes 15-23.76 various media consumers (government, community
figures, ordinary people, military, NGO’s and media
managers themselves). A number of obstacles were
76
The research undertaken by ISAI looked at the encountered in conducting the research. The
performance and development of the provincial deployment of researchers to the three provinces
mainstream, alternative and traditional media in North before the research methodology had been finalised in
Maluku, as well as examined information flows from Jakarta caused delays. Furthermore, the poor Internet
both local and national media and their respective connection in Ternate, as well as the weak mobile
influence on the general public. A sample of nine phone signal further hindered communication. In
respondents representing provincial media addition, the local researchers found that allot of the
stakeholders, community figures, religious leaders, requested data, such as on journalist trainings, was not
security forces, government, private sector and the well document by the local media.
77
general public provided in-depth feedback on the role This section is based upon the following sources:
of the media relating to conflict. The survey was Encyclopaedia Britannica 1999, Jakarta Post, OTI
carried out on six printed media (Maluku Utara Pos, Field Report Indonesia (June 2000), Program on
Ternate Pos, Tabloid of Halut Press, Aspirasi, Mimbar Humanitarian Policy and Conflict Research (Harvard
Kieraha and Suara Pengungsi) and three radio stations University, USA), Human Rights Watch, Inside
(RRI, Radio Gema Hikmah and Radio Paksi Buana). It Indonesia, International Crisis Group.
41
conflict in Central and South East Maluku, the sub-districts, Kao and Makian-Malifut
initial motives of the conflict in North Maluku (containing the former Makian island
were apparently more related to territorial inhabitants) by changing the administration of
problems and competition between the local five villages in Kao Sub-district to join the
political elites.78 villages with the majority of former Makian
island inhabitants. The five villages refused to
The political conflict started in September
join because they were ‘tied to traditional unity
1999, when President B.J. Habibie agreed to
with the other villages in Kao sub-district due
separate North Maluku and the Maluku
to their ancestors pledge’, but also because the
province. However, the idea of establishing the
new administrative district centred on Malifut
new northern province including the main
would allow the Makianese to take over
islands of Halmahera, Ternate, Tidore and
control of a gold mine which was the main
Bacan aroused an old rivalry between the
local source of revenue from the Kao villages.
Sultanate of Ternate and Tidore. The Ternate
elites under the leadership of the Sultan of Disregarding these objections, the
Ternate (Mudaffar Syah) allegedly wanted Government unilaterally declared the
Ternate to become the transitional capital of establishment of sub-district of Malifut in
the province before it was moved to Sidangoli, August 1999. That night violence broke out in
a village in North Halmahera. On the other two of the five Kao villages, Sosol and
hand, the Sultanate of Tidore insisted that Wangeorak, which rejected the policy of the
Soasiu, the capital of Central Halmahera in regional administration. Convinced by the
Tidore Island, was made as the transitional Sultan of Ternate, the Kao laid down their
capital, while Sofifi, a village in Central arms. However, hatred ran high and in October
Halmahera, which was nearer to Soasiu, would residents of Kao attacked Malifut, killing
be made the capital. approximately 100 inhabitants and forcing
4,000 survivors to flee to Ternate and the
The end result of the competition between
neighbouring island of Tidore.
Ternate and Tidore was a law, which made
Ternate the transitional capital and Sofifi the The Muslim flight to Ternate and Tidore
definitive capital. Those in Ternate reportedly was accompanied by a rise in religious hatred
considered that the movement of the capital to and in response the Makian’s “cleansed”
Sofifi would harm their interests in the long Ternate of Christians. The Sultan of Ternate
run. On the other hand, Tidore, which up to reportedly refused to support the violence, so
that time lagged behind Ternate in terms of local group leaders turned to the Sultan of
economic development, would change to Tidore, a traditional rival of Ternate. Due to his
become the more strategic region. However, support of Christians, the Sultan of Ternate
the Tidore elites feared that the Sultan of was quickly labelled as anti-Islamic. On the
Ternate would maintain Ternate as the other hand, the Sultan of Tidore with his allies
permanent capital, if he were elected as used the jargon of ‘Christianisation’ to attract
governor in local elections in June 2000. supporters. In this regard the conflict, which
Therefore, together with the Makian elites, the had seemingly started over competition for
Tidore elites allegedly went into opposition political control and economic resources, took
against the Sultan of Ternate. on an increasingly religious perspective.
The conflict became violent following the Fighting continued throughout the latter
issuance of Government Regulation No. 42 of part of 1999, reaching a peak in December,
1999, which developed Kao sub-district to two with the military and police reportedly taking
part in the violence. In the Tobelo sub-district
78
Please see the explanation and case chronology on Halmahera Island, north of the Kao,
made by Yayasan Sagu (Sago Foundation), Maluku Christians now attacked the local Muslim
Report 30: Memahami Kompleksitas Konflik di
Maluku Utara (Understanding the Complexity of
minority, reportedly killing 500 and ‘cleansing’
Conflict in North Maluku), January 2000; Smith the district of over 10,000 persons. Moreover,
Alhadar, “The Forgotten War in North Maluku,” there were calls amongst the Muslim
Inside Indonesia, No. 63, July-September 2000, pp. community for a jihad to get land back and
15-16; Thamrin Amal Tamagola, “The Bleeding “cleanse” the area of Christians.
Halmahera of North Mollucas,” Jurnal Studi
Indonesia, Vol 10, No. 2, 2000.
42
5.2 The Media in North Maluku form of tabloids and on a weekly basis. Out of
these only Mimbar Kieraha and Malut Pos are
5.2.1 National Media
published on a daily basis.
National media can be accessed easily in
A wide range of these local and provincial
North Maluku, print as well as broadcast.
print media reported on the riots, although this
Those national print media that can be found in
often lacked objectivity and was without
North Maluku, are Kompas, Media Indonesia,
verification of relevant sources. The majority
Koran Tempo and the Jakarta Post, besides
tended to be partisan and acted as the
tens of magazines and infotainment tabloids.
mouthpieces for combatant groups. Those
Television such as RCTI, TPI, SCTV and
newspapers that declared themselves non-
Metro TV are also accessible. There is no relay
partisan were the Ternate Pos and Mimbar
TVRI station in Ternate. The North Maluku
Kieraha. As a result, these newspapers came
Television (MUTV) - a local television channel
under pressure from the public, being accused
- was apparently not well liked by audiences,
of one-sided reporting.
due to the poor quality of programming and
lack of a fixed schedule. As a result, this The influence of the partisan media started
channel reportedly no longer regularly to decline when the political tension began
functions. subsiding and many media closed due to lack
of capital and limited marketplace. Currently,
The geographic condition of North
only 4 out of the 11 print media that were
Maluku, which consists of many small islands,
published in 2000 can be found on a frequent
also causes difficulties for the remote areas to
basis. The remainder are only published
be routinely accessed by national media. As a
sporadically.
result, national newspapers are often simply
stockpiled by newsagents, because it is hard to As examples of the print media in the
send them to other areas, some of which are province, the daily, Ternate Pos was the first
only accessible by sea. Therefore, the local local print media in North Maluku, and has
newspapers are considered more dominant been published since August 1998. Its self-
than their national counterparts and the declared mission is to “make social control
circulation figures for local newspapers are through presenting news in North Maluku”.
reportedly increasing. Recently the Jawa Pos Group extended its
business by establishing a new newspaper in
5.2.2 Mainstream Print Media
the area, The North Maluku Post (Maluku
In 2000, there were 11 recorded major Utara Pos). The North Maluku Post’s mission
printed media in North Maluku. These is “together advancing - to develop society”.
included: Dodia, Fokus, Gema Nusantara, According to Tauhid Arief, the Chief Editor,
Info, Kabata, Koran Ternate, Mandiri, Mimbar the initiative to establish the newspaper started
Kieraha, Simpati, Sinter and Ternate Pos, when the conflict in Maluku broke out. In
published in the form of bulletins, newspapers those days, the majority of printed media were
and magazines. 79 published in Manado, and could not be
In this assessment about 35 different outlets delivered to North Maluku due to disrupted
were identified. However, many of these only transportation. The management in Manado
appear on a very irregular basis. IDPs and Pos (North Sulawesi – member of the Jawa Pos
investors from Ambon initiated many during Group) were concerned by this problem and
the conflict in 1999. 80 Generally the print media proposed to establish a newspaper in Ternate.
were published with minimal capital and In addition, they felt that the people of North
whatever management resources were Maluku needed a professional impartial
available. Based on the survey data it seems newspaper. Until becoming a daily in March
that journalists rather than businessmen ran the 2003, The North Maluku Post was published
majority of these media. The majority of weekly.
newspapers are published in Ternate in the
5.2.3 Alternative Print Media
79
See Annex 15.
80
As it is explained in Media Assessment Report of Suara Pengungsi, which is 32-page
North Maluku by ISAI in 2001. bimonthly publication, was established in July
43
2003 to provide advocacy for IDPs. At that broadcast reach, RRI, was often reportedly
time, very few newspapers published detailed pressurised by the combatant parties to
news about assistance programmes or broadcast news in compliance with their
repatriation/ relocation programmes provided interests. Several radio stations were attacked
for IDPs. CARDI (Consortium for Assistance during this conflict period, amongst these was
and Recovery toward Develompment in Radio Gema Hikmah (Ternate) and most
Indonesia), an INGO active in the area, commercial radio stations closed down in
cooperated with the European Commission periods of fighting.
Humanitarian Aid Office to support the
The survey focused on the three biggest
establishment of this magazine. The magazine
radio stations in North Maluku, RRI, Radio
employs five staff (four in program division,
Gema Hikmah and Radio Suara Paksi Buana
with two of them are based in North Maluku
(SPB). The remainders are predominantly
and two others in North Sulawesi).
entertainment based radio stations.
World Vision, an INGO active in North
Radio Gema Hikmah first broadcasted in
Maluku, produces an educational comic
July 1994 on FM 103.0 MHZ. Its broadcast
entitled ‘Harmony’ aimed at 9 to 12 year olds.
reaches Ternate and the surrounding West
This bi-monthly publication is prepared and
Tidore and West Halmahera. The main
published in Jakarta and distributed to 180
listening group was the Muslim community.
schools in Ternate Tobelo, Galela and Kao. It
Radio Gema Hikmah relays news from the
is accompanied by a teacher’s edition to assist
68H Radio News Agency, as well as BBC-
with use in classrooms and covers a range of
London, Voice of America (VOA) and Trijaya
conflict-resolution related topics including
FM. The station also runs talk shows in
appreciating diversity, working together,
corporation with RRI.
communication, creative problem solving and
dealing with negative situations. The Radio SPB broadcasted for the first time in
publication has a feedback component and is 1998, from Tobelo, a region with Christian
reportedly well received by the target group.81 majority. Radio SPB was established by Pastor
Titus under Yayasan Bintang Laut (Star Fish
5.2.4 Broadcast Media Foundation, referring to Saint Mary who
Radio is the most important regional controls the sea), with the objective of reducing
broadcast media. The main obstacle for radio violence among the youth in Tobelo. The
broadcasts in the province is the geographical Yayasan Bintang Laut also published the
conditions. The territory of North Maluku Bintang Laut tabloid. The foundation is now in
consists of islands and a mainland archipelago. the process of giving the two media increased
The distances from Ternate to the eastern coast ‘distance’ from the church to avoid perceptions
of North Halmahera are considerable. that it is a Catholic station.
Therefore, none of the independent radio RRI North Maluku is one of many
broadcasts can be received in the entire provincial stations in the national RRI network,
province, except for the RRI (Radio Republik supposed to be friendly to the government,
Indonesia), which is broadcasting both in FM, which is also their source of funding. RRI
MW and SW. Some areas in North Maluku, broadcasts a mix of national and provincial
including the conflict areas, are apparently programmes. It is supposed to have a large
complete ‘media vacuums’, when it comes to audience, not the least in the remote areas of
independent radio broadcasts. the province. The station has a number of talk
The three main news stations, RRI (Radio shows, which reportedly involves a diverse
Republik Indonesia), Radio Gema Hikmah in range of stakeholders in the province.
Ternate and Radio Suara Paksi Buana (SPB)
in Tobelo, were initially assumed respectively 5.2.5 Media Content
as the “Government’s Radio”, the “Islamic There seems to be no standards in the
Radio”, and the “Christian Radio”. During the policy mechanisms applied in the respective
conflict, the station with the most extensive media. Maluku Utara Pos tends to use policy
81 mechanisms similar to the Jawa Pos Group.
Interview with World Vision office in Tobelo (28
While the other media said that “they trusted
May 2004)
44
their reporters”, so did not need to question

issues directly related to the news coverage or 5.2.7 Safety Issues
bribery. In addition, separation between the The safety situation for journalists
editors and other sections of the media was reporting on other communities was extremely
lacking with journalists also working for the hazardous during the heightened periods of
advertisement ‘lobby team’. conflict, with a number of media practitioners
Maluku Utara Pos has begun separating the being attacked, including by their own
editorial, administrative, advertisement, communities. Although the security situation
marketing and other processes. For the editorial has significantly improved, many journalists
system, the proposals and inclusion of news seemingly remain wary of travelling to, or
stories were decided through editorial reporting on, communities other than their
meetings. However, it often cannot maintain own. Although with notable exceptions, this in
this principle, because some of the journalists turn increases the de facto segregation of the
are reportedly not independent. In a region Christian and Muslim communities.
vulnerable to political conflict, a number of
journalists seemingly do not exercise sufficient 5.2.8 Associations and Networks
self-control and have been involved in political The only journalist association with a local
disagreements. This partisan attitude representative and branch in the province is
influenced the news. PWI (Indonesian Journalists Association).
However, it does not include many young
5.2.6 Education and Skills journalists and the majority are from pre-1998
The basic education of journalists in North or are correspondents for the Jakarta media in
Maluku ranges from high school education to North Maluku.
university degrees. The majority of journalists Reportedly due to the administrative and
works without any apprenticeship or media technical obstacles to establishing a local
training, and as a result lack basic journalism, branch of AJI, a group of local media
news writing, interviewing techniques and practitioners instead opted to create their own
editing skills. However, some journalists from association, the ‘North Maluku Journalist
the larger newspapers have had in-house Association’, which is connected to AJI. Other
training.82 As an exception, Jawa Pos, through organisations, such as the Indonesian
its group, Manado Pos, has carried out training Consumer Institution (YLKI) and Press
for those in its group. In this regard, staff at Worker Union (SPP), are seemingly relatively
Maluku Utara Pos have received in-house inactive.
training. Only a few journalists have received
training outside North Maluku. Many have 5.2.9 Media Policy and Legislation
joined courses on peace journalism carried out
by national and international organisations The application of the Press Law (UU
based in Jakarta such as British Council, ISAI, Kebebasan Pers No.40/1999) in Ternate is
LSPP, AJI and Internews. problematic. This law should, in theory, make
journalists more responsible for their reporting
A majority of the radio’s employees are and uphold ethical codes. However, it is the
high school and Bachelor degree graduates. Criminal Code, not the Press Law, which is
Most of them have followed the peace often applied by the law enforcement officials.
journalism training. For the election coverage,
Gema Hikmah recruited four high school The Local Independent Broadcasting
graduates and five undergraduates, while Radio Commission (KPID) has not been established,
Paksi Buana recruited three high school so monitoring by such a body, as well as by the
graduates and one undergraduate. Most of the independent ombudsman (the Press Council),
RRI employees have non-formal education is not available yet in North Maluku. As a
held by RRI in Jakarta through in-house result of this unregulated environment, radio
activities. 83 stations often broadcast news merely quoted
from local print media (without check and re-
check) and break the rules regulating
82
See Annex 19. frequencies.
83
See Annex 21.
45
5.2.10 Legal Cases and External 5.2.11 Revenue and Income Generation
Pressure
The newspapers in North Maluku are all
The external pressure on North Maluku printed in less than 2,000 copies.84 Even some
media often comes from the (former) big newspapers, published regularly, are only
combatant parties, including threats of physical printed in between 500 and 1,000 copies. The
violence. Even when the aggrieved party is an biggest newspapers (such as Mimbar Kiereha
acknowledge member of the public, the lack of and Malut Pos) are printed in about 2,000
awareness about alternative legal recourse copies with a selling price of Rp 2,000 per
other than face-to-face dialogue, creates copy.85 Newspapers in North Maluku therefore
incentives for alternative unacceptable methods have a maximum daily income of Rp.
to be used. In this regard, no legal cases were 4,000,000 from sales and therefore cannot rely
brought to the attention of the assessment team, on sales as their only source of income. Sales
whilst there have been a number of direct and tend to be concentrated in the provincial
indirect threats being made against media. capital. As an example, Mimbar Kieraha with
Media in North Maluku also faces external a 2,000 circulation per day focuses 70% of its
pressure from the regional authorities. The then marketing in Ternate and only 30% outside the
Governor of North Maluku, Abdul Muhyi city.
Effendie, for instance, in March 2001 issued a These media often also depend on income
stern written warning and a threat of denial of from the advertisements. The majority of
coverage to five media outlets - two Jakarta- advertisement work comes not from
based TV stations, RCTI, TPI, and three local businesses, but from the authorities. These
print media, Ternate Pos, Mimbar Kieraha, types of advertisements are ceremonial,
and Fokus - due to information that was congratulation and public service
“provocative” and “undermining the authority advertisements. The only reliable income is
of the Government”. All legal and information therefore government advertisement, which
apparatus were asked to monitor and take unfortunately comes very infrequently. Only
action against media that violated this on special occasions, such as the General
regulation. The notification had a controversial Election, Governor Election, or some big
effect on the Indonesian press at the time, as regional events, do the authorities purchase
press freedoms had only recently been advertisements in local media. However, it has
introduced in the country. AJI (Independent been noted that some media, which have not
Journalists Alliance) and SEAPA (South East been published for long time, then suddenly
Asia Press Alliance) asked Muhyi Effendie “to reappear and obtain these advertisements. The
revoke the notification”. The journalists in average advertisement income per media is Rp
Ternate also issued a declaration, signed by 17 3.000.000 to Rp 5.000.000.86
journalists, asking the Governor to give an
Some media are receiving assistance from
explanation on his accusation. They also
the Government of North Maluku on an ad hoc
threatened to “boycott the entire coverage” on
basis based on requests proposed by media
the Governor, if he did not give an explanation.
outlets for specific activities. This includes the
In a dialogue with the Press Council in commemoration of anniversaries as well as
Jakarta, the Governor defended his action by transportation funds to attend events outside
charging that the media reporting in his North Maluku. The amount of assistance is
province were sectarian, inaccurate and between from IDR 2 million to IDR 5 million.
unbalanced. He refused to withdraw his These funds are taken from the Regional
warning order, but pledged to “make the Budget. However, it appears that not all media
effort” not to ban the press. “In a province are granted equal access to this kind of
where civil emergency has been declared, the assistance.
governor is the supreme authority and can issue
Other sources of external assistance include
regulations deemed necessary to maintain
from religious institutions. In Tobelo funds
public order. That includes gagging the press”.
By the end of the year, Governor Effendie kept
84
his word in not issuing an outright gagging See Annex 17.
85
order. See Annex 18.
86
See Annex 18.
46
have come from the local church through the Rp 300,000 to Rp 500,000 a month.90 Some
Yayasan Bintang Laut to develop the tabloid of journalists have side jobs as researchers,
Bintang Laut and Radio Suara Paksi Buana. freelancers or correspondents for national
media in order to maintain their income.91
5.2.12 Expenses and Institutional
Resources The number of radio employees also
varies. Gema Hikmah has nine employees -
The cost of production for the radio two reporters, four announcers, and the rest in
stations in North Maluku is relatively small, the administration department. Suara Paksi
being only around Rp 2.5 million to Rp 6 Buana has four in the news division - one
million a month. This amount is sufficient to editor and three announcers.92 In other radio
pay operational costs and salaries – and the stations employment is also based on an
income from advertisements is also around that honorarium system, calculated by hours on air.
figure. The net income of radio in North
Maluku is also not very large. Nevertheless, it The practice of ‘envelope journalism’ is
does not discourage people from establishing reportedly widespread in North Maluku. In
stations and many are set up as a hobby87. general, most media practitioners seem to feel
that it is acceptable to receive money from
Although there are many newspapers, the vested interests as long it does not influence
majority does not have strong capital, and as a news content.
result are in a weak condition with poor
infrastructure. Usually print media only have 5.2.14 Gender
very simple facilities. Most often the media
According to the survey, only a few media
works from a leased building and only have a
in North Maluku give sufficient attention to
limited number of computers. Half out of 13
gender issues. Women tend to have
newspapers surveyed in this report do not have
administrative and financial roles in the print
their own spatial arrangement section, which is
media, or commonly work as announcers on
often trusted to the printing shop. Out of these
radios, although without the prospective of
print media, only two have their own printing
being promoted to higher positions with the
press. Many newspapers’ offices take the shape
stations as granted to their male colleagues.
of a “home industry”. Halut Pers in Tobelo
News content relating to women is also mostly
has, for example, only has three computers,
about IDP issues and crime (as victims).
one printer, and two recording devices88. For
Gender issues are not considered important in
lay out and printing, most of the tasks on their
local news and the biggest portions relate to
weekly and monthly publications are done in
politics.
Manado, North Sulawesi.89
5.3 Provincial Traditional Media
5.2.13 Ownership, Employment and
‘Envelope Journalism’ 5.3.1 Community Forums and
Ceremonies
The number of journalists in the respective
newspapers in North Maluku varies from There are various traditional media in
approximately 15 to 30. The status of the North Maluku that have underlying conflict
employees also varies. Some newspapers use resolution connotations (see Annex 23). The
the system of permanent employees, others traditional media in general uses rituals to
have staff based upon honorariums. For resolve inter-communal problems. However,
instance, Mimbar Kiereha and Malut Pos use unification ceremonies and movements, such
the system of permanent employees, whilst as Hibualamo93, which finds its roots in the
Halut Pers pays by honorarium. The
journalists are paid with honorariums 90
according to the number of articles being See Annex 19.
91
After the conflict, North Maluku is often the object
written. The standard salary of journalists in of research with a number of topics. Many journalists
North Maluku is relatively small, from around in North Maluku work as interviewers or assist
researchers, who carry out field research in North
87
See Annex 21. Maluku.
88 92
See Annex 17. See Annex 21.
89 93
See Annex 17. See Annex 22.
47
province, apparently no longer influence the words,” the Secretary of MUI (the Indonesian
public as the traditional forms of government Ulamas Council) of North Maluku, Kasman
have been eroded by the onset of the modern Hi. Akhmat said. The main obstacle to using
state. In particular many of the younger mobiles is the weak signal in many places.
generation are seemingly unaware of what However, the perspectives for SMS to make
these rituals entail. the spread of rumours and gossip more rapid if
not based on proper information are
5.3.2 Organised Religion considerable. However, if there is access to
objective mass media this may make SMS a
Muslim and Christian religious leaders
key tool for resolving surges in tensions based
have been involved with the establishment of
upon misinformation.
“The Forum of Harmony and Communication
Among the Religious Disciples” (FKKAUB), 5.4.2 Internet
with the objective to unifying and resolving the
conflict between the different communities. Access to the Internet is very limited in
According to Reverend S. S. (Tot) Duan, the North Maluku and the connection is slow. At
Church leaders often provide spiritual guidance the time of conflict in 1999, Internet access and
for their congregations, as is also the case with usage was extremely limited and pamphlets
the ulamas (Moslem Scholars) in the mosques. were the main form of information
FKKAUB routinely discuss the problems in dissemination. To date, access can be obtained
the region, which involves the local, provincial through Internet shops in the Post Office of
and central authorities. The activities of Ternate or in one of the few Internet cafes.
FKKAUB were considered effective as of Internet usage and access is more prevalent
2001. amongst media practitioners, although it seems
that usage could be useful expanded for this
5.3.3 Communicative Art Forms group as well.
The combatant communities have
5.4.3 Handy Talky
reportedly undertaken informal direct
reconciliation efforts at the grassroots level Handy-talky is used as a form of
through communicative art forms94. In this communication in the province. The
regard, the Sanggar Seni Gumarin (Art studio geographical condition of North Maluku, with
of Gumarin) has used local theatrical arts, many islands and jungle areas, encourages
which reflected the diversity and interaction of people to choose handy-talkies as the means of
communities in North Maluku. speedy and cheap communication. At the time
of conflict, they often reportedly became a
5.4 New Information Technologies source of irresponsible information
dissemination, serving to fuel rumours and
5.4.1 Cellular Phone and SMS
gossip rather than countering them, particularly
Cellular phones are beginning to be a tool as communication is not secure and easily
for communication in Ternate and Tobelo. listened in on.
However, their reach is still limited,
particularly in Tobelo. For telecommunication, 5.5 Information Flows
people usually use the landline phones,
5.5.1 Rumour and Gossip
although this is expected to change as it has in
other areas of the country. At the time of conflict, it seems that the
Short Message Service (SMS) is also local communities were readily provoked by
becoming an alternative way of delivering unsubstantiated rumour. The limited access to
messages. “Currently SMS is becoming a information through the media meant that the
necessity, because SMS is cheap and teaches flow of information that was available to the
the people to become smarter, because SMS public came from a very small number of
invites the people to communicate with sources. Reverend S.S (Tot) Duan a religious
leader from the FKKAUB in Tobelo stated:
94
Interview with S. S. (Tot) Duan, religious figure “At the time of conflict, it was very difficult
from Forum of Harmony and Communication Among to filter the news, fortunately now people are
the Religious Disciples (FKKAUB) of Tobelo. not so easily provoked”
48
like to have access and our journalists are

5.5.2 Media to Consumer often hurried by the deadline” 95
Generally the radio stations in North Faiz Albaar, the general manager of
Maluku do not work with clear audience Mimbar Kieraha also commented on this issue,
segmentation. They target all groups, from saying:
young to old, poor to rich. This means that “The high pressure of deadlines and lack of
there are no special youth stations or female communication between the Government
stations, like in many other places in Indonesia. and the press caused difficulty, which was
From the aspect of programme composition, very disturbing. Because of this, the news in
the radio broadcasts are therefore those two newspapers was often
comprehensive, mixing entertainment, imbalanced”. 96
information, spiritual programmes, and so Faiz Albaar also said that his reporters
forth. A number of radio stations, such as often faced difficulty in the efforts to maintain
Gema Hikmah, Suara Paksi Buana (SPB) and checks and balance. The limitation of
RRI, have their own news programmes, publishing time and inharmonious relations
although the majority of news is relayed from between the local press and government often
the Jakarta based radio services. made the editors of Mimbar Kieraha decide to
Although the media is increasingly publish the news as it was without trying to
spreading out from Ternate to other areas, such verify with the relevant institutions. Moreover,
as Tobelo, there are still some notable ‘media they also often found that when they did try to
vacuums’ in the province, or areas where the verify news, the resource persons often did not
diversity of information access is extremely want to comment. The difficulty to access
low. Halut Pers tabloid is starting a newspaper resource persons was also felt by the manager
in Tobelo. At present the only other print of Gema Hikmah news radio:
media is Bintang Laut, although it is currently “We need better balanced and honest
not in operation. information, in order to provide the public a
During the conflict these vacuums served balanced and fair coverage”97
to fuel tension through the inability of Furthermore, as with the other two
populations to access information. In this provinces, information flows between civil
regard, in 2001 USAID/ OTI funded the society and the media seems to be significantly
distribution of Ternate / provincial papers to hindered by a lack of respect and trust between
Halmahera to help get news of reconciliation these communities and about the other
out to the public. Although the conflict is now professionalism. In addition, the media seem to
dormant, such problems relating to access to be predominantly focused on the authorities
information still exist, particularly amongst and security forces in terms of accessing
rural communities along the eastern side of ‘trusted’ or ‘respected’ sources of information,
Halmahera. potentially at the exclusion of other legitimate
sources amongst academia and civil society.
5.5.3 Primary Source to Media
The Government controls information
provision to the media by applying a ‘one
door’ policy through the Information and
Communication Bureau of the Provincial
Administration of North Maluku (Biro
Infokom). Local media managers consider
these measures to be ineffective. As the chief
editor of Maluku Utara Pos, Tauhid Arief
stated:
95
Interview with Tauhid Arief, Chief Editor of
“Sometimes the Infokom cannot cover all Maluku Utara Pos.
information to which the journalists would 96
Interview with Faiz Albaar, General Manager of
Mimbar Kieraha.
97
Interview with Alwi Sagaf, news editor of Gema
Hikmah Radio.
49
6. Recommendations for Support to the Media in Central

Sulawesi, Maluku and North Maluku
This study proposes four focus areas for considerations (Figure 1).
support to the media in these provinces
In this regard, the focus areas in the first
including:
and broadest of the activity recommendation
! Strengthening the Media Environment groups – Strengthening the Media
! Developing Professional Skills and Environment at Provincial Level – are
Resources generically applicable in all three provinces,
! Facilitating Information Flows and Access whilst those in the last and most specific of the
! Supporting Community-based groups – Supporting Community-Based
Communication Communication – are generally unique to each
province.
Holistic Approaches - A holistic approach
is required for a programme addressing media Parallels between Provinces - As indicated
and conflict. This should range from the below, the research undertaken in Central
broadest level of developing a strong and Sulawesi, Maluku and North Maluku indicates
vigorous media environment, to the most clear parallels between the three provinces in
specific level of utilising local channels of terms of the broad issues that should be
grassroots communication. Such an approach addressed in order for the media to better
thus ensures that individual traditional and engage in conflict resolution and prevention. In
alternative media can be engaged in addressing this regard, the recommendations for all three
conflict related issues in a manner unique to the have been combined into one section.
local environment, and the inherent long-term However, this is not to say that all the
role of the mainstream and alternative mass- provinces have identical circumstances and the
media for preventing and resolving conflict can recommendations should therefore not be
be secured through countering manipulation implemented in identical formats in each.
and abuse, diversifying information access and Obvious divergences are indicated in the
dissemination, and providing skills and sections below where applicable and the
resources. The diagram below outlines these project formulation stage following on from
Figure 1 – Relationship between Components of a Holistic Approach to Media Work
General Level Strengthening the Media Environment

Ensuring strong and secure media at Provincial Level
environment to counter abuses and
facilitate positive role of mass media in
preventing/ resolving conflict.
Developing Professional
Skills and Resources
Intermediate Level
Strengthening media professionalism
and information flows to positively
address conflict-inducing issues. Facilitating Information
Flows and Access
Specific Level Supporting

Engaging individual local community- Community-Based
based communication channels are Communication
addressing conflict issues.
50
this assessment should tailor the recommended as protecting the media against harassment and
fields to the individual situation in each attack. Likewise, the mechanisms and manner
province. in which licences are allocated to the media
must be undertaken in a transparent and
The more specific recommendations
balanced manner. Effective and realistic self-
outlined below are aimed at achieving a long-
regulatory mechanisms should also ideally be
term reduction in the potential for conflict,
utilised, thereby allowing issues to be dealt
based upon the specific circumstances of each
with by the media community itself in the first
province as laid out in the previous sections.
instance.
They include specific targeted activities and
should not be seen as an exhaustive list of all Summary of Findings - Despite the
the local media’s needs vis-à-vis the conflicts. presence of a Press Law and Broadcast Law in
The activities are suggested within a Indonesia, these are often not being applied by
prospective implementing timeframe of law enforcement agencies and the judiciary at
approximately three to five years and should be either the national or provincial level. Rather,
addressable within reasonable budgetary limits. libel laws are predominantly being applied to
In regard to the latter point, it is noted that a cases involving the media. Moreover, although
number of the suggested activities can be only a few legal cases have been undertaken in
achieved through single multi-layered Central Sulawesi and Maluku, and even less in
interventions and do not therefore require North Maluku, the current precedent being set
individual interventions. Furthermore, the at the national level indicates that this
recommendations seek to build upon what phenomenon may be increasing and that vested
national and international media development interests are manipulating legal procedures to
and freedom of expression actors have already intimidate and silence media institutions. Such
undertaken in the three provinces, utilising practices may soon be mirrored at the
existing resources and reinforcing best provincial level.
practices. It is also suggested that prior to any
Furthermore, a significant number of
programme development based upon this
disputes between the media and other parties
report, ISAI undertake a consultative process
are being settled outside of any legal or self-
with the wider national and provincial media
regulatory mechanism. Although this can lead
communities.
to amicable resolutions of grievances for both
the aggrieved party and media, it also
6.1 Strengthening the Media engenders the use of unacceptable methods
based upon intimidation and harassment. The
Environment at Provincial Level
presence of the Press Council offers an
Overall Rationale - A vigorous and strong alternative regulated process through which
media environment should solidify the long- disputes can be addressed, without removing
term sustainable role of the media in its the potential for recourse to legal channels at a
function as the ‘fourth estate’. In this regard, a later date if resolution is not found. If used in
secure and balanced environment is not only a an objective manner, this could therefore be
necessity for a functional and secure media, but beneficially utilised by the provincial media,
is also required to ensure the media’s ability to although it will of course not prevent the
perform conflict prevention and resolution recourse to unacceptable methods for those to
roles as an inherent function derived from its explicitly seek to use manipulative or violent
professionalism, as well as being a strong basis means. In addition, there are numerous laws
for preventing the types of manipulation and applicable to the media, including the Press
abuse of the media that can fuel tensions. Law, Broadcast Law, Proprietary Limited
Company Law, and so forth. This creates
6.1.1 Media Policy and Legislation complex environments in which the media
Specific Rationale - Legislation relating to must operate, which are often beyond the
the media must be fair, effective and capacities of single outlets to following and
enforceable, offering both checks against the adhere to.
excesses of the media (in particular relating to The Independent Broadcast Commission
hate speech and antagonistic reporting), as well (KPI) has been created to regulate and monitor
51
the broadcast media. The KPI should also be agreement on collective needs and stances and
established at the provincial level (KPID) in provides for ‘strength in numbers’. This serves
order to give recommendations on broadcast to reinforce the confidence and abilities of
licences to KPI and also make media practitioners to uphold professional
recommendations to the Department of standards and defend media rights.
Communication about the issuance of
Summary of Findings - Whilst in Central
frequency licences to local broadcast media
Sulawesi there are local representatives of a
once every three years. Moreover, it will
number of professional media bodies,
monitor the content of the media, including a
including the Alliance of Independent
requirement for outlets to retain copies of all
Journalists (AJI), Indonesian Journalist
broadcasts, as well as review complaints and
Association (PWI), Association of Private
recommend penalties. However, due to delays
Radios (PRSSNI) and others, in North Maluku
in the establishment of the KPID, a number of
and Maluku such official local representatives
broadcast media have begun and/or continued
are on the whole absent. This is apparently due
activities without licences. The establishment
to the administrative, technical and financial
and work of the KPI and KPID will therefore
obstacles to establishing local branches. In
be central to the creation of secure and fair
North Maluku the local media practitioners
media landscapes and environments at the
have instead opted to create the ‘North Maluku
provincial levels.
Journalist Association’, whilst in Maluku AJI
Potential Approaches - The kinds of work has a strong influence through the Maluku
that could support the media policy and Media Centre (MMC). Other organisation like
legislation include: the Indonesian Consumer Institution (YLKI)
1. Facilitate access for provincial media to and Press Worker Union (SPP) were also
advice and support relating to legal relatively inactive in the three provinces. There
requirements and processes, as well as existing are also other professional groups, such as the
national and international legal-aid mechanism; DPR3 in Central Sulawesi, in which
participation of the active media could have
2. Raise awareness amongst the media at
positive benefits. 98 Where local representatives
provincial levels about available self-regulatory
were not present, the view of many media
mechanism;
practitioners was that the influence and benefits
3. Support self-regulatory mechanism in of professional organisations were limited.
establishing a presence at the provincial levels;
Potential Approaches - The kinds of work
4. Raise awareness with the authorities and
that could support the media associations and
civil society at provincial levels about relevant
networking include:
national media legislation and self-regulatory
mechanisms; 1. Address obstacles and support professional
media bodies with the establishment of local
5. Through national professional media
representatives and/or linkages with local
bodies, support the local broadcast media in
media communities;
relation to the establishment and conduct of the
KPI; 2. Support capacity development for
professional media bodies at local levels,
6. Support the KPI with executing its
including cooperation on implementing media
functions with specific consideration of special
development activities;
needs and circumstance created in conflict
prone environments. 3. Assist role of professional bodies in
monitoring and advocacy in support and
defence of local media communities.
6.1.2 Associations and Networking
Specific Rationale - Networking and
association between journalists both within
their immediate communities, as well as
regionally and internationally, provides
linkages amongst practitioners and outlets both 98
‘DPR3’ is an informal weekly gathering of people
locally and nationally, and facilitates exchange
from various professions, which the members
of experiences, promotion of best practices, themselves refer to as DPR3
52
6.1.3 Monitoring and Advocacy understanding of the media’s role and inherent
Specific Rationale - Monitoring the content responsibilities as the ‘fourth estate’ in conflict
of the media can serve both as an early warning prone environments.
of potential conflict-inducing practices, as well
as growing threats against the media. 6.2.1 Content Transformation
Furthermore, monitoring should be linked to Specific Rationale - Research into
‘action orientated’ advocacy and conflict early- professional training for journalists in conflict
warning mechanisms. In this regard, affected areas has been taken a step further
monitoring and advocacy provides indicator of with initiatives to facilitate the media’s
when there are increasing unwarranted potential to communicate and relate
restrictions and controls on the media; indirect information in a style specifically orientated
and self-censorship of media practitioners and towards the peaceful resolution of conflict. The
outlets; suppression of external media sources; media thus becomes a facilitator of conflict
and media polarisation, including increased reduction, rather than a professional unattached
stereotyping and hate-speech. observer. Content transformation activities
Summary of Findings - At presents there such as this aims to assist media practitioners
seems to be only limited participation in media tackle those economic, social, political and
monitoring and advocacy mechanisms in religious issues considered too sensitive to
Central Sulawesi and North Maluku. Such address during periods of conflict.99 Not to
involvement that does exist is predominantly tackle such issues means that the root causes of
done through national institutions in Jakarta, the conflict are not addressed and the original
thereby reducing and delaying direct access to status quo theoretically persists with the
information about circumstances in the associated threat that conflict may re-emerge.
provinces. In Ambon, the Maluku Media However, if this approach is used, the
Centre (MMC) is reportedly substantively challenge lies in ensuring that the media is not
engaged together with AJI in media monitoring ‘manipulated’ to promote pre-set agendas or
and advocacy activities. simply disseminate information in place of
professional journalism.
Potential Approaches – The kinds of work
that could support the monitoring and Where hate speech exists, such
advocacy include: interventions are often ineffective, as the
propagator is usually making a conscious
1. Develop more effective and responsive decision to produce such rhetoric. The
media monitoring activities in North Maluku challenge is to use both persuasive and
and Central Sulawesi and build upon those coercive methods, ranging from entering into a
already established in Maluku, to be linked dialogue with the media and creating a critical
with national and international advocacy mass of public and professional pressure, to
mechanisms; facilitating national and local actors to pursue
2. Enhance capacity of local media to pursue necessary self-regulatory and/or legal
advocacy at both provincial and national levels recourses.
to address pertinent media related issues;
Activities should seek to enable media
3. Link monitoring to national and outlets and practitioners, both from within an
international conflict early warning area and between areas, to share experiences,
mechanisms and institutions. work together and utilise innovative reporting
and ‘clever’ publication techniques, such as
having controversial articles ‘vetted’ by a
6.2 Developing Professional Skills and
lawyer prior to publication or having it
Resources published in another province and republished
Overall Rationale - The development in the applicable province. In addition, they can
and/or restoration of professional skills and
resources fosters the ability of the media to 99
research, interpret and communicate about Although this is predominantly orientated towards
journalism, the use of entertainment style programmes
conflict in an objective, reliable and accurate
should also be considered, such as soap operas and
manner. In addition, it provides an enhanced other forms.
53
serve to bring together a variety of media not have the breadth of experience to
practitioners, such as journalists, editors and automatically interpret them. In addition,
owners, thus facilitating the exchange of ideas although this could be gained through
and views over religious, political and ethnic follow-up activities whereby the trainer
divides, thereby enhancing media liaises with the local journalists and provides
professionalism through diversifying practical assistance in applying such skills,
information sources and knowledge. In this this has regularly not been the case.
regard, media outlets should also seek to reflect ! Resources and Opportunity: Although
diversity in terms of regional, ethnic, political many media practitioners, from journalists to
and religious composition of society. editors, express an interest in practicing
Summary of Findings - Despite ‘peace journalism’, it seems that workplace
inflammatory reporting during previous realities significantly restrict this. This is
periods of overt conflict, current professional because the production of peace journalism
standards in the three provinces appear to be requires additional time and resources, both
reasonable when considered vis-à-vis the in terms of undertaking the necessary
regional media environments and research and having the funds to travel to
underdeveloped access to opportunities and and report from conflict-affected
resources. The increasing presence of national communities. Moreover, in circumstances
media groups and inclusion of local outlets has where an editor or journalist has received
also served to heighten professionalism in local training, whilst the other has not, this may
media institutions. However, the use of create purposefully obstructive or
advanced professional skills, such as conflict inadvertent resistance to the practice of new
sensitive journalism and investigative skills.
journalism, appears limited. Moreover, ! Access to Information: In combination
knowledge about conflict related topics and the with the point above, the media are
ability to tackle them in a constructive manner substantially dependent on the authorities to
remain insufficient. provide information. However, whether
inadvertently or not, the local government
There have been a number of training
and security forces often pursue restrictive
activities in Maluku, North Maluku and
and cumbersome information policies
Central Sulawesi on peace journalism (also
hindering efficient and timely access (see
referred to as conflict sensitive reporting)
following section).
during the years, to a degree where
considerable duplication can be noted. ! Centralised and Self-Censored Editorial
Repetition in these activities has been Policy: A number of local media are
heightened by the attendance of the same centrally owned by Jakarta-based media
‘elite’ journalists at the different trainings. As a companies. Although this provides access to
result, many of the more experienced and resources and training, the editorial policies
senior journalists have a relatively good of the local media are sometimes hemmed in
knowledge of what this style of reporting by the interests of these companies.
entails and how it should be conducted. Although no overt editorial control was
However, these skills are apparently highlighted, this nevertheless can favour not
nevertheless little-used in the local media. In upsetting the status quo, as well as ensuring
specific, this seems to be because of five main commercial success. Furthermore, self-
obstacles: censorship also appears to be exercised by
the local media regarding sensitive issues
! Applicability to Local Context:
(see following section).
Although many of the training activities
have been conducted by well-versed ! Safety Concerns: Although few media
proficient individuals, often from outside of professionals were reportedly injured or
Indonesia, they have often not been killed during the violence, some understand
adequately grounded in local reality. The continued to feel threatened by the prospect
theoretical nature of such activities have of reporting from unfamiliar surroundings in
made them difficult to apply to local areas where opposing communities reside
circumstances where media practitioner may (see following section).
54
Although during the conflict period all 2. Facilitate cross-cutting linkages to expert
three provinces experienced degrees of sources on other thematic areas being
inflammatory reporting, mainly due to addressed by UNDP (including good
inadequate professional skills and poor governance, access to justice, natural resources,
isolation from prevalent opinions in the local local economic development, social cohesion
communities, the majority now appear to have and gender).
adopted editorial policies aimed at avoiding an
Innovative Reporting and Publication
inadvertent repetition of such reporting. This in
Techniques:
practice has led to self-censorship on a number
of key topics necessary for conflict resolution 1. Establish intra and inter-provincial team
and prevention, including what are referred to reporting activities including all three
as SARA issues (ethnicity, religion, race and provinces and crossing ethnic, religious and
inter-community groups). regional boundaries (in connection with
knowledge and skills development activities
Potential Approaches - The potential outlined above);
approaches identified for developing
2. Facilitate ‘clever’ publication techniques
professional skills and resources can be divided
for media outlets, particularly relating to
into (i) skills development, (ii) knowledge
investigative journalism (in connection with
development and (iii) innovative reporting and
knowledge and skills development activities
publication techniques.
outlined above);
Skills Development: 3. When possible, promote religious, ethnic
1. Build upon the existing pool of expertise in and gender diversity and plurality amongst
conflict sensitive journalism through staff in media outlets.
addressing obstacles to the practice of such
skills (Please note that the issues of resources, 6.2.2 Institutional Capacity-Building
income generation, access to information, Specific Rationale - The range and
safety and self-censorship are also dealt with in scenarios in which support can be provided to
previous and following activity media institutions and practitioners to facilitate
recommendations). the production of professional journalism are
2. Establish activities and networks in numerous. Such activities may seek to provide
advanced journalism skills, such as financial and/or organisational assistance to
investigative journalism, for ‘elite’ media media institutions already having a positive
practitioners, utilising innovative reporting and impact on conflict reduction and prevention, or
publication techniques (as described below). with the potential for having such an impact.
3. Provide training for those who have not The aim of such action is to overcome
been engaged in conflict sensitive journalism, obstacles and enhance access to those essential
preferably through feedback-based in-house resources that allow media practitioners to
processes, incorporating a training-of-trainers undertake their work in accordance with
component with a provincial partner where professional standards and practices.
possible; In a post-conflict situation, external
4. Assist media with establishing the balance assistance can create alternative mechanisms
between entertainment and news content, as for media production, relocate outlets and
well as the use of entertainment formats for introduce innovative working methodologies
addressing conflict related issues (please refer more suited to post-conflict environments. It
to the section on Supporting Community Based may also involve the provision of media
Communication - Civil Society Initiatives). infrastructure that has either been destroyed or
Knowledge Development: forcibly removed, or core financial support to
replace lost revenue as a result of reduced
1. Develop awareness and knowledge on key advertising or circulation. Furthermore, longer-
conflict related topics (SARA issues) and term perspectives should also aim to strengthen
provide skills and resources for reporting on income generation and financial self-
them in a professional and conflict reducing/ sustainability, thereby reducing dependency on
preventing manner (as described above). external sources of income and practices such
55
as ‘envelope journalism’ (whereby journalists 6.2.3 Safety Issues

or media outlets are paid to cover certain issues Specific Rationale - Safety concerns often
in a favourable manner). hinder and create barriers for the work of
Summary of Findings - Although in both media practitioners. In this manner, safety
Central Sulawesi and North Maluku the orientated interventions provide awareness for
periods of time since the main conflict can be those working in conflict-affected areas or for
measured in years rather than months, the individuals who find themselves specifically
lasting impact of the conflict still remains. For under threat as a result of their work. It thereby
example, in the Tobelo area of North Maluku facilitates the personal and institutional safety
before the conflict there were a number of local of media and allows them to more quickly and
radio stations, whilst in the post conflict stage effectively address those inhibiting security
one is active at the local level. The other constraints created by conflict.
stations either closed after the conflict or had Summary of Findings - During the period
their equipment destroyed as a result of the of overt conflict in Maluku, North Maluku and
violence. In Maluku the escalation of violence Central Sulawesi, safety for journalists was
just prior to this assessment indicates that the severely reduced. Travel in the conflict-
immediate threats to the media institutions affected areas became extremely hazardous
remain present. and some of those who did so were reportedly
The conflict has also had a significant attacked, with a few losing their lives. In
impact on the local economic situation with the Maluku, the recent resurgence of violence
effect of reducing advertising markets and again placed such restrictions on journalists.
restricting the potential for financial self- The longer-term effects of this have been
sustainability. This has the effect of creating continuing concerns amongst the media
financial dependency on external sources of community about travelling to and reporting
income, including vested economic and first-hand from ‘other’ communities.
political interests and development aid funding, Potential Approaches - The kinds of work
as well as practices such as ‘envelope that could support safety issues include:
journalism’. Moreover, the poor financial
condition of many broadcast media means that 1. Provide safety training for local and
the production of local news or other national journalists in Maluku reporting on
programme formats aimed at addressing the conflict;
conflict are often prohibitively high. 2. Develop responsive safety advice
mechanism for local journalists, possibly
Potential Approaches - The kinds of work through professional media associations;
that could support institutional capacity
building include: 3. Through ‘innovative reporting’ techniques
(as described above) encourage media
1. For those local independent professional community to travel to and report on other
media engaged in other aspects of the communities (taking safety considerations into
suggested activities, provide institutional and account).
financial support (particularly for the broadcast
media) in terms of production costs, equipment
and access to new information technologies, 6.3 Information Flows and Access
including the Internet;
Overall Rationale - Efficient and effective
2. For those local independent professional
information flows and access both from the
media engaged in other aspects of the
media to consumers, and primary sources to
suggested activities, provide financial
the media are essential for the media to play a
management and income generation
constructive role in conflict prevention and
techniques to develop self-sustainability and
resolution. Where these flows are restricted or
reduce dependency on external sources;
simply do not exist, this may significantly fuel
3. Facilitate access to national and tensions as other forms of unreliable
international loan mechanisms supporting local information flows become prevalent, including
independent professional media. rumour and gossip, as well as inflammatory
information providers and ‘agent provocateurs’
56
acting outside of formal professional ethical professional media, whilst in Tobelo in North
codes and structures. Maluku there is only one irregular local
newspaper and one entertainment-based local
The key to such interaction is ensuring that
radio station.
there are productive and mutually beneficial
flows of information between these groups. Potential Approaches – In areas where
Misunderstandings often obstruct such there is poor access to professional media,
information flows, hindering the ability of the assistance to be provided to facilitate existing
media to communicate an objective and local independent professional media to extend
accurate picture, the importance of which is their coverage to incorporate these areas, or
paramount for addressing conflict. where this is not possible, to establish
Unobstructed flows of information can also independent outlets in these areas (in this
open up innovative avenues and methods for regard consideration should be given to
accessing objective and accurate information community radio and TV, utilising existing
and methods for reporting during times of broadcast legislation on community
conflict. broadcasters). Promote diversity and plurality
in those existing local professional media
6.3.1 Media to Consumer accessible in isolated areas.
Specific Rationale - By supporting the
6.3.2 Primary Source to Media
creation of a plural independent media
environment, choice and diversity are added to Specific Rationale - The media does not act
the media landscape and information access is alone in society, but forms a part of the larger
enhanced for the general public, particularly in community. In this context, interaction
isolated areas. In this regard, where the sole between the media and other civil society
media might be aligned to a political, religious, actors, whether they be academia, civil rights
ethnic or economic interest, creating groups or NGO’s, is important for developing a
sustainable plurality provides more voices and broad understanding of key dynamics and
points of view, which in turn lessens the issues, as well as being able to reflect diversity
potential influence of a single outlet. in reporting.
Furthermore, where ‘media vacuums’ exist Dialogue and interaction with local and
and the local population have no, or extremely central government, as well as security forces,
limited, access to objective, reliable and is helpful for media communities in conflict-
objective information, rumour and gossip is left affected areas, in particular to further access to
unchallenged as the main form of information information. This can serve to create greater
dissemination. However, an intervention to fill understanding of the roles and needs of the
a media vacuum should not create media, as well as pre-empt or reverse
unsustainable media outlets vis-à-vis realistic restrictions imposed by the authorities.
prospects within the marketplace. Such
Summary of Findings - Access to
interventions should also not be at the expense
information from local government in Maluku,
of existing professional media that might be in
North Maluku and Central Sulawesi appears
a position to expand dissemination and/or
somewhat restricted. Although this is not
broadcast range.
always apparently a result of purposeful
Summary of Findings - In Maluku, North obstruction, the use of ‘one door’ information
Maluku and Central Sulawesi there are clear policies results in bottlenecks and insufficient
examples of low media plurality and diversity information reaching the media. In all the
in conflict-affected areas, as well as ‘media provinces, local government have information
vacuums’ both existing before the conflict and officers (Biro Infokom), but channels between
created as a result of it. Although many have them and the media are not always fluid. The
been, or are being, addressed (as per the current same situation was found for the security
UNDP activities in Maluku being implemented forces.
by the Media Development Loan Fund) a
One of the key reasons found amongst
number of key areas continue to remain in the
authorities for not providing information was
same situation. As examples in Tentena in
poor professionalism amongst the media and
Central Sulawesi there is very limited access to
57
their assumed inability to accurately and communication of messages aimed at reducing

responsibly convey news, as well as the and preventing conflict. Vulnerable
continuing institutional culture amongst civil populations need accurate and timely
servants of avoiding putting information in the information in order to function and survive in
public domain. For obvious reasons, it was the new conditions created by conflict.
assessed that the legislative branches of local However, it is during conflict that information
government were more open to exchanges with often becomes confused, both in terms of
the media. knowledge about what assistance can be
sought, as well as what is happening in the
The national news agency – Antara - also
conflict. The lack of such information fuels
provides national information. However, at the
insecurity and tensions, leading to the
provincial level it was found that media did not
prevalence of rumour and unsubstantiated
usually directly subscribe, although they did
information, which is often inflammatory and
access information through the Antara website
inaccurate. In this regard, the communication
(www.antara.co.id).
of accurate, reliable and objective information
Linkages between civil society and can serve to reduce fears and the perceived
academia were seemingly more productive, need to take pre-emptive action in self-defence.
although information flows were also
Based on the same logic, public
apparently somewhat limited. Moreover,
communication is equally applicable in post-
relations between the international aid
conflict periods when underlying conflict-
community and local media do not always
inducing tensions remain and knowledge
appear productive, due to media perceptions
about, as well as understanding of, other
that these organisations were not forthcoming
communities is limited. As outlined in the
with information, and perceptions amongst the
DFID ‘Working with the Media in Conflicts
international community that reporting is of
and other Emergencies’ publication:
low professional quality and often inaccurate.
‘Mass media can help to deliver a flow of
Potential Approaches - The kinds of work objective and accurate news and comment to
that could support primary source-media people caught up in conflicts. This provides
information flows include: communities with a basis on which to take
1. Engage local executive and legislative decisions in response to the crisis affecting
branches of the government and security forces them. Objective reporting can also counter
in developing mutually beneficial information propaganda and hate messages which fuel
flows; conflict’.100
2. Raise awareness amongst the media about 6.4.1 Community Forums
rights regarding information access, as well as
professional techniques for accessing and Specific Rationale - A number of important
interpreting information (including the use of communication channels exist outside of the
new information technologies, such as Internet mainstream and alternative mass media that are
and SMS); influential information and communication
mediums at the local community level. Such
3. Facilitate linkages between civil society
forums often play a central role in determining
and academia with the media for the more
opinions and offer the perspective of receiving
effective flows of information, as well as
information through a local trusted source.
utilisation of experts (other than just the
These channels also often bring the added
authorities) as sources of information and
weight of tradition and/or deep-seated beliefs,
resource persons for quotation or inclusion in
which the mainstream and alternative media
broadcasts.
normally cannot achieve. As such, local forums
are powerful and influential tools for
communication. However, unlike the
6.4 Supporting Community-Based
Communication 100
‘Working with the Media in Conflicts and other
Overall Rationale - In conflict situations, Emergencies’ p. 18 (Conflict and Humanitarian
information is the basis for the coordination of Affairs Department and Social Development
Department, DFID, September 2000)
humanitarian assistance and public
58
mainstream and alternative media, channels for communication. Likewise, arts

communication through such channels also and literature also entail either explicit or
bring complex socio-religious connotations and implicit messages that may have societal
nuances and are therefore not as readily implications, including conflict resolution
interpretable for those outside the local based upon subjects such as social tolerance,
community. harmonious communal relations and human
suffering as a result of conflict.
Summary of Findings - Traditional
community forums exist in Maluku, North Summary of Findings - In all three
Maluku and Central Sulawesi, both through provinces, contemporary and traditional music,
organised religion and long-standing arts and literature deriving from both the local
communal practices and ceremonies. As and national levels play an important role in
outlined in the province specific sections, these social interaction. In particular, music and
include local discussion forums led by associated forms of dance provide common
traditional community leaders, religious ground for communities to come together,
ceremonies and teachings, conflict resolution thereby facilitating inter-community relations
ceremonies, gatherings to mark significant and building trust and mutual awareness. Local
occasions, and so forth. Amongst other and national artists also carry influence and a
functions, such forums are used to spread number are seemingly well-disposed to using
information and engage in community their talents for the purpose of further
dialogue and consensual decision-making. community relations and addressing conflict.
Moreover, they are also used for preaching and
Potential Approaches - The kinds of work
communicating set messages often based on
include:
longstanding community or religious doctrine.
1. Local and national traditional and
Potential Approaches - The kinds of work contemporary artists, musicians and writers
that could support community forums include: should be assisted in using their talents to
1. Community and religious leaders to be address conflict related issues;
engaged in dialogue with local authorities and 2. Music and art festivals and events should
national and international project partners on be supported addressing conflict issues and
the use of traditional media for conflict providing forums for communities to come
resolution and prevention; together based upon common interests and
2. Community and religious leaders to be appreciations.
provided with tools for interpreting and
communicating on conflict related issues, 6.4.3 Civil Society Initiatives
including knowledge development on key Specific Rationale - Organised civil society
conflict-inducing issues; plays a strong role in alternative media. In
3. Where applicable, traditional and non- addressing specific issues of interest or
conventional media to be linked with providing forms of grass-root communication,
mainstream and alternative media; it is civil society that is often best placed to
4. Community and religious leaders to be work with local communities. Moreover, civil
brought into broader processes and advise on society also has the potential to identify and
development and implementation of conflict address subjects as they arise. Although such
resolution and prevention activities. initiatives normally have preset agendas and
are designed to communicate specific
6.4.2 Arts, Music and Literature messages, they offer ideal platforms for
communication, with the additional strength of
Specific Rationale - Both contemporary
bringing local commitment and participation
and traditional music, arts and literature play an
influential role on communities. These may Summary of Findings - A number of local,
derive from popular culture at the national national and international civil society and non-
level or from long-standing local traditions. In governmental initiatives are ongoing in
Maluku, North Maluku and Central Sulawesi Maluku, North Maluku and Central Sulawesi.
music and dance are predominantly used as a Some of these have been formed as a result of
form of entertainment, which itself are the conflict with the aim of avoiding the re-
59
emergence of violence and have utilised media owned by or included in national media
alternative communication techniques to networks and companies.
spread their messages amongst local 2. In order that those supported in
communities. These include publications, interventions can use the skills and knowledge
posters and public dialogue forums, as well as gained during the activities, the preparation
more developed tools that often use stages of projects must entail carefully
entertainment based mediums as conduits such orientated and separate approaches to
as generic soap operas and inter-active learning journalists, editors and owners/publishers, as
comics for children. These latter activities are all three groups are crucial for the successful
often undertaken either directly by, or utilisation of training and other forms of
conjunction with, an international partner. support. To address only one of these groups
Potential Approaches – Approaches to can mean that there is not a general
support civil society initiatives include: understanding within a media outlet
concerning the benefits to be gained. As an oft-
1. Whilst avoiding duplication, support
seen example, journalists who receive training
should be provided to existing civil society and
may not be able to use their new skills, because
non-governmental information and
editorial staff are either unaware of, or hostile
communication initiatives that have proven
to, the news-gathering or reporting concepts
effective thus far such as magazines, comics,
being introduced.
radio soap operas, media centres, and so forth;
3. Long-term inter-active activities are
2. Civil society and non-governmental
essential for reinforcing skills learnt and
information and communication initiatives that
resources provided, whilst in contrast
are supported should be assisted to ensure that
‘parachute training’ often leaves little lasting
they are:
impact. Furthermore, skills development and
! Specifically grounded to local training must be grounded in the local context
circumstances and reflect local realties; in order that participants find them practically
! Disseminated as effectively and widely applicable to their local needs.
as is possible;
4. Accurate audience research needs to be
! Inter-active and allow for incorporation undertaken to establish the balance between
of feedback from communities; TV and radio in urban and rural areas.
! Linked to other civil society initiatives 5. When possible, activities should not start
both within and between provinces to new media outlets as the marketplace for
ensure coordination and sharing of lessons revenue generation is already tight.
learnt and development of best practices. Internationally funded institutions might
3. Assistance with developing institutional therefore force existing committed individuals
and financial sustainability for civil society and out of the media. In this regard, support should
non-governmental information and be channelled through those that have already
communication initiatives. shown a serious commitment in conflict
4. When undertaken in conjunction with prevention and resolution in their local
activities, poster and flyers should be produced communities.
aimed at both public display and for use as 6. Regarding media centres, although the
‘decoration’ in private homes. Maluku Media Centre (MMC) presents a
positive model for such activities, caution is
6.5 Considerations for Implementation expressed about trying to reproduce such
The following issues are raised for facilitates in North Maluku and Central
consideration: Sulawesi. Ambon presents a unique
environment where the opposing communities
1. Activities in the provinces need to be
are in close proximity and the city potentially
‘mirrored’ in Jakarta, thereby providing a local,
has a large enough centralised media
regional and national context (and international
community to sustain the Centre. In this regard,
if appropriate). This approach is particularly
the MMC should continue to be supported.
relevant when addressing media policy issues
However, the effectiveness and sustainability
and engaging national media, as well as local
of such a media centre could be more
60
problematic in the other provinces and might

also undermine the current donor-based
funding for the MMC. Furthermore, the
networking and resource benefits deriving
from a media centre can be achieved through
other mechanisms, as outlined in the activity
recommendations.
7. Involvement by the public service media
(RRI) in the activities should be supported.
However, the activities should not seek to
engage in the transformation of RRI from a
state to a public service broadcaster, which is a
substantive programme to be addressed in its
own right.
8. Information and communication is
unlikely to develop core journalism skills or
have lasting capacity-building impact on the
wider media community’s ability to
professionally address the potentially sensitive
issues about which they write and broadcast.
Media development aims to solidify the longer-
term role of the media in its function as the
‘fourth estate’. In this manner, the long-term
ability of the media to perform conflict
prevention and resolution roles as an
‘automatic’ function of its professionalism,
without the requirement of external
interventions or funding, should ideally derive
from the creation of stable and strong media
environments, skills and resources.
9. Information and communication activities
that address urgent conflict-related issues can
sometimes create inertia. Such activities build
the expectation that the local media will be
paid to address urgent conflict-inducing issues,
thus undermining self-initiative to take action,
as to do so might deny potential income.101 On
the other hand, such activities also provide
valuable sources of income to independent
media in underdeveloped economic markets.
101
It is often the local media that first observe tensions
rising and are therefore in a position to take action first.
61
ANNEXES
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The Role of Media in Conflict Resolution

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The Role of Media in Conflict Resolution

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Thematic Assessment

The Role of Media in Peace-Building

Researched and Prepared By:

With Technical Support From:

AJI Alliance of Independent Journalist

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...................................................................................................... 6

2. INDONESIA’S MEDIA LANDSCAPE – NATIONAL PERSPECTIVES .................... 13

3. MEDIA AND CONFLICT IN CENTRAL SULAWESI.................................................. 16

4. MEDIA AND CONFLICT IN MALUKU ........................................................................ 29

5. MEDIA AND CONFLICT IN NORTH MALUKU.......................................................... 41

6. RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SUPPORT TO THE MEDIA IN CENTRAL

resolve latent conflict issues. Furthermore, the

video and new information technologies, 1.2 Interrelationship between Media

marketplaces. Although an explosion in the sudden presence of an unregulated or

circumstances at the provincial level (Chapter

Table 1 – Asssessment Team

The assessments conducted as part of this

2. Indonesia’s Media Landscape – National Perspectives

publishers were financially stable. Indonesian

Broadcast Media Networks - In Indonesia

3. Media and Conflict in Central Sulawesi

Baruga is a monthly 20-page publication 3.2.4 Broadcast Media

(Komisi Penyiaran Indipenden Daerah).36 subscribers, poor distribution systems and

Most media apply the regional minimum

3.4.2 Internet 3.5.1 Rumour and Gossip

The Internet is becoming increasingly A number of persons interviewed in Poso

3.5.2 Media to Consumer

4. Media and Conflict in Maluku

characterized by fighting, the destruction of 4.2 The Media in Maluku

reporting innovation and diversity in news

5. Media and Conflict in North Maluku

Geographically, North Maluku is an 5.1 Background to Conflict77

their reporters”, so did not need to question

like to have access and our journalists are

6. Recommendations for Support to the Media in Central

Figure 1 – Relationship between Components of a Holistic Approach to Media Work

General Level Strengthening the Media Environment

Specific Level Supporting

as ‘envelope journalism’ (whereby journalists 6.2.3 Safety Issues

their assumed inability to accurately and communication of messages aimed at reducing

mainstream and alternative media, channels for communication. Likewise, arts

problematic in the other provinces and might

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