Prof. Sutan Nasomal: Journalist Certification Is Not Limited to UKW
Jakarta – Prof. Dr. KH. Sutan Nasomal, S.E., S.H., M.H., emphasized that journalist professional certification in Indonesia is not limited to the Journalist Competency Test (UKW) but may also be obtained through certification schemes recognized by the National Professional Certification Agency (BNSP) in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Prof. Sutan Nasomal made the statement while responding to questions from editors-in-chief of print and online media, both from Indonesia and abroad, at Prof. Dr. Sutan Nasomal University in the Saptamarga area, Selayang, Langkat Regency, North Sumatra, on Wednesday (July 29, 2026).
According to Prof. Sutan Nasomal, many people still believe that journalist competency certification can only be obtained through UKW conducted in cooperation with the Press Council. However, he explained that BNSP is the official state institution authorized to administer professional competency certification across various fields through accredited Professional Certification Bodies (LSPs) that meet the required standards.
“For years, the journalism community has been more familiar with UKW conducted in cooperation with the Press Council. In fact, BNSP is the official state institution authorized to issue competency certification for various professions, including journalism. This needs to be widely disseminated so that people no longer assume there is only one officially recognized certification pathway,” Prof. Sutan Nasomal said.
He further explained that journalist professional organizations, universities with faculties or study programs in communication, and other educational institutions may collaborate with LSPs and BNSP to organize competency certification programs in accordance with existing regulations.
Prof. Sutan Nasomal also called on press organizations throughout Indonesia to strengthen outreach, cadre development, and the implementation of professional certification programs so that all journalists have equal opportunities to improve their competence and professionalism.
He stressed that professional certification should serve as a means of enhancing the quality of human resources in journalism rather than becoming a barrier to practicing the profession.
“Professional certification will greatly enhance professionalism and facilitate cooperation between journalists, government institutions, and the private sector. Most importantly, every journalist and editor-in-chief should possess a comprehensive understanding of journalism, professional ethics, and the constitutional responsibilities of the press,” he stated.
To support certification programs across the country, Prof. Dr. Sutan Nasomal University Jakarta is prepared to cooperate with professional organizations and relevant institutions. He noted that if at least 50 participants are gathered in a province, the university’s certification team is ready to travel to the region to conduct the program.
“Organizations or editors-in-chief interested in organizing certification programs may coordinate with Prof. Dr. Sutan Nasomal University Jakarta through 0811-8419-260,” he added.
Prof. Sutan Nasomal expressed hope that more press organizations would utilize state-recognized competency certification pathways, thereby improving the quality, professionalism, and competitiveness of Indonesian journalists while upholding the principles of equality and equal opportunity for all members of the press.
Prof. Dr. KH. Sutan Nasomal is widely recognized as an International Legal Expert, press figure, economist, Chairman of the Indonesian Young Advocates Association (PAMID), Rector of Prof. Dr. Sutan Nasomal University, and Founder and Caretaker of ASS SAQWA PLUS Islamic Boarding School.
Sources: Prof. Dr. KH. Sutan Nasomal, S.E., S.H., M.H., and Kamidi, CFLE.
