TRANSCRIPT:
I’m honored to speak about the role that Voice of America has long played in Indonesia as a widely trusted and far-reaching source of accurate, independent news. Indonesia enjoys an open and vibrant press, but Voice of America adds value by providing U.S. and global perspectives that are often missing for Indonesian audiences. In the world’s largest Muslim majority nation, the Voice of America Indonesian Service helps fill critical information gaps.
The Voice of America Indonesian Service distributes its journalism through a network of more than 500 affiliate media outlets across the country. This extensive reach demonstrates the high level of confidence Indonesian media organizations place in VOA’s editorial standards. Affiliates and partners consistently praise Voice of America for its accuracy, balance and comprehensiveness, which align with its congressional mandate “to serve as a consistently reliable and authoritative source of news.”
Through its accurate reporting, Voice of America has helped shape a positive view of the United States as a credible and reliable partner. The sudden suspension of Voice of America operations in Indonesia has raised serious concerns. Media partners and audiences see this disruption as a setback for press freedom and access to global news.
Even more urgently, Voice of America’s absence creates a void that authoritarian actors are ready to exploit. Chinese and Russian state media continue expanding their presence in Indonesia, spreading propaganda and disinformation that threaten democratic values.
Without Voice of America’s credible voice, Indonesians face increased exposure to these harmful narratives. Affiliates, partners, and audiences throughout Indonesia continue to call for Voice of America’s return. They see it not just as a news outlet, but as a trusted media partner and a defender of press freedom. I believe it is also a vital instrument of U.S. soft power in one of the world’s most strategically significant democracies.
Published
Donovan served as U.S. ambassador to Indonesia from 2016–2020 during the Obama and Trump administrations. A career diplomat, he also held senior roles involving East Asian and Pacific affairs.