Banten Gears Up to Host 2026 National Press Day — Meet Si Juhan, the Mascot of a “Healthy Press, Strong Nation”
Banten — The province of Banten is preparing to welcome journalists, policymakers, and media professionals from across Indonesia as it hosts the 2026 National Press Day (Hari Pers Nasional, HPN) on February 9. With the theme “Healthy Press, Strong Nation” (Sehat Pers, Kuat Bangsa), provincial officials say the event will highlight the vital role of independent, ethical journalism in sustaining democracy and tackling contemporary threats such as disinformation, economic pressures on media, and safety risks to reporters.
Unveiled this week, the official HPN 2026 mascot — named Si Juhan — has already become a local conversation starter. Designed by a Banten-based creative team in collaboration with the provincial government and PWI Banten (Persatuan Wartawan Indonesia), Si Juhan is intended as a friendly, approachable symbol of journalists’ dedication. The mascot depicts a journalist in traditional Banten attire holding a pen and a microphone, combining cultural identity with the tools of the trade. Officials say Si Juhan will appear in promotional materials, educational outreach to schools, merchandise, and digital campaigns aimed at promoting media literacy.
“Si Juhan is more than a character; it represents the values we want to promote during HPN 2026 — professionalism, courage, and public service,” said a representative of the Banten Provincial Communications Office. “We want to use the occasion not only to celebrate the press, but to encourage a healthier information ecosystem that strengthens our nation.”
The week-long program planned in Serang and surrounding venues will include national and regional conferences, roundtable discussions with lawmakers and regulators, workshops on journalist safety and digital verification techniques, and exhibitions showcasing both legacy and emerging media. The National Press Council (Dewan Pers), civil society groups, university media departments, and local press organizations are expected to take part in sessions addressing media financing, regulatory frameworks, and the role of local journalism in community resilience.
Local stakeholders are emphasizing the event’s political as well as cultural significance. Banten Governor’s office has indicated a willingness to host dialogues between the provincial government and national media bodies on press access, public information transparency, and measures to protect reporters covering sensitive beats. “Hosting HPN gives Banten an opportunity to set an example for constructive engagement between government and the media,” said a provincial official involved in the preparations.
Beyond policy forums, organizers are planning cultural showcases highlighting Banten’s heritage — from performances and culinary fairs to tourism displays featuring Ujung Kulon National Park, Anyer and Carita beaches, and Baduy cultural tours. Local business groups anticipate an economic boost as thousands of visitors are expected to arrive from across the archipelago, bringing increased occupancy to hotels and heightened activity for restaurants and retailers.
Security and logistics remain priorities. Authorities are coordinating with national police, local health services, and event managers to ensure safe movement and accessibility for attendees. Press freedom advocates say this is also a moment to spotlight protections for journalists: seminars on legal aid for reporters, newsroom safety protocols, and mechanisms to combat online harassment are scheduled.
PWI Banten officials stressed the need for broad public engagement. “A healthy press requires not only ethical journalists but an informed public that understands media literacy,” said a PWI Banten representative. “Si Juhan will help carry that message into schools and community centers across Banten.”
As Banten finishes preparations, organizers are urging local residents to participate in public events and cultural programs tied to HPN. With its blend of policy debate, professional development, and cultural celebration, National Press Day 2026 in Banten aims to be both a showcase of the province’s hospitality and a substantive forum on how a free, healthy press can contribute to a stronger nation.
