RRI Marks 81st Anniversary with Tributes, Reinforces Role as Guardian of Truth

RRI.CO.ID, Yogyakarta - The 81st anniversary of Indonesia’s Public Broadcasting Institution Radio Republik Indonesia (LPP RRI) this September is being marked not only with commemorative ceremonies but also with renewed emphasis on its role as a guardian of verified information.

On Wednesday, September 9, 2026, RRI Yogyakarta Station held a solemn ceremony at the Kusumanegara National Heroes Cemetery, where 2,051 heroes and freedom fighters are laid to rest.

Led by Station Head Taufan Pamungkas Marhaendra Jaya, the event included prayers and floral tributes at the graves of national figures such as General Sudirman, Urip Sumoharjo, Katamso, Colonel Sugiyono, Minister Soepeno, and Sardjito.

The delegation also visited the Indonesian Air Force Monument and Museum in Ngoto, Bantul, where pioneers of Indonesia’s Air Force and RRI -- Agustinus Adisutjipto and Abdurrachman Saleh -- are buried alongside their wives.

“They made extraordinary contributions to the nation, especially during independence. A great nation is one that honors its heroes. Their values of struggle must be understood, lived, and emulated,” Taufan explained, on Wednesday.

He highlighted Abdurrachman Saleh as RRI’s first director, whose spirit of service is enshrined in the Tri Prasetya RRI pledge, reminding staff to safeguard RRI’s equipment, content, and neutrality for the nation’s interest.

Beyond remembrance, RRI is also reaffirming its mission as a verifier of information amid today’s digital disruption.

“RRI is not chasing speed like social media. Our role is to ensure every piece of news, entertainment, and content is verified, responsible, and trustworthy,” Taufan emphasized.

He noted that RRI has established a special task force to uphold quality journalism, aiming to build public trust through accuracy and professionalism.

The anniversary month features a series of events under RRI Fest 2026, themed Harmony in Action, Together Building the Nation. Activities include a healthy walk, SMEs bazaar, blood donation, tree planting, auditions for Bintang Radio, and a traditional Kethoprak performance from Sept. 13–19 at RRI Yogyakarta’s Kotabaru and Demangan offices.

The Bintang Radio competition, a long‑standing RRI icon, has drawn over 70 participants this year, with the finals set for September 18.

Another highlight is the Tri Prasetya Torch Lighting Ceremony on September 11, held simultaneously across Indonesia. The ritual symbolizes the enduring flame of commitment among RRI broadcasters to remain loyal to the pledge established in 1945.

Through these commemorations, RRI underscores its dual identity: as a national media institution rooted in the sacrifices of heroes, and as a trusted source of journalism in an era of information disruption.

The anniversary becomes not only a celebration of history but also a reaffirmation of RRI’s role as the people’s broadcaster, carrying forward the legacy of its founders while adapting to modern challenges. ***