Sorong, June 26 -- The Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) is formulating a strategy to strengthen the mass media ecosystem in Southwest Papua as part of broader efforts to reinforce democracy, public communication, and community participation in development.

Nuzula Anggeraini, Director for Ideology, National Identity, Politics, and Democracy at Bappenas, said on Friday that strengthening the press and mass media is not only essential for the sustainability of the media industry but also plays a strategic role in improving the quality of democracy and fostering a healthy public sphere.

"A high-quality press is a key prerequisite for ensuring that the public has access to accurate information, civil liberties remain prot...