Prof. Sutan Nasomal: All Press Organizations Must Conduct Journalist Professional Certification
Jakarta – International Press Figure and International Law Expert Prof. Dr. Sutan Nasomal, S.H., M.H., has called on all press organizations across Indonesia to organize Journalist Professional Certification (JPC) programs for their members as part of strengthening journalists’ competence, professionalism, and organizational development.
Prof. Sutan Nasomal made the statement while responding to questions from editors-in-chief of print and online media, both domestic and international, regarding the ongoing discussion surrounding journalist certification. He delivered his remarks via telephone from the Headquarters of the Merdeka Opposition Party in Cijantung, Jakarta, on Tuesday (July 28, 2026).
According to Prof. Sutan Nasomal, the public is generally familiar with the Journalist Competency Test (UKW), which is conducted through the Press Council in cooperation with accredited universities that have faculties of communication. However, he emphasized that another state-recognized institution, the National Professional Certification Agency (BNSP), is also authorized to issue professional certifications.
“Every press organization has the right to conduct Journalist Professional Certification for its members. Certification through BNSP has not been as widely recognized as the UKW, even though BNSP is the official state institution authorized to certify various professions in Indonesia,” Prof. Sutan Nasomal said.
He stressed that socialization and cadre development within press organizations should be strengthened continuously. Therefore, every press organization, regardless of its name or affiliation, should establish a Journalist Professional Certification program involving members from the national leadership down to regional branches.
According to him, press organizations may organize certification programs independently or collaborate with BNSP or other legally authorized professional certification bodies in accordance with applicable regulations.
Prof. Sutan Nasomal explained that professional certificates issued by press organizations would greatly benefit both journalists and media companies. Such certification would enhance public trust, improve professional standards, and facilitate cooperation between media institutions, government agencies, and private sector organizations.
He also proposed that journalist certification should follow a single national standard, without different levels or classifications, ensuring equal competency standards for all journalists.
“There should be one uniform standard for Journalist Professional Certification. There should be no unnecessary distinctions in certification levels. The most important aspect is ensuring a thorough understanding of journalism and professional ethics,” he said.
Furthermore, Prof. Sutan Nasomal stated that journalists, reporters, and editors-in-chief share the same professional responsibility in carrying out the mission of the press. Therefore, all media professionals should receive equal education and training in journalism, ethics, and professional standards through certification programs.
He emphasized that the primary objective of Journalist Professional Certification is not merely to achieve high scores, but to ensure that participants fully understand journalism as a profession and are capable of performing their duties responsibly and professionally.
“The essence of Journalist Professional Certification is not about obtaining high marks, but about ensuring that every participant gains comprehensive knowledge of journalism and can perform professionally,” he emphasized.
At the end of his remarks, Prof. Sutan Nasomal expressed hope that all press organizations in Indonesia would adopt Journalist Professional Certification as a sustainable program to improve the quality, integrity, and professionalism of the national press.
Source: Prof. Dr. Sutan Nasomal, S.H., M.H., International Law Expert, Economist, President of the Merdeka Opposition Party, Chairman of the Indonesian Young Advocates Association (PAMID), Chairman of YPLBH Prof. Sutan Nasomal, International Press Figure, and Founder and Caretaker of ASS SAQWA PLUS Islamic Boarding School.
Written by: Kamidi, CFLE.
