INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING PATTERN OF TEMPO WEEKLY NEWS MAGAZINE

Abstract

Purpose of the study: Through an investigative news, “Kapal Patroli Pembawa Selisih” (Tempo, 2004, May 16), this research is conducted for the purpose of examining Tempo’s investigative reporting pattern – how Tempo conceptualize its investigative reporting, how Tempo plan its investigative reporting, how Tempo evaluate its investigative reporting and how Tempo conduct its investigative reporting. Methodology: This study uses qualitative method with case study approach, through interpretive framework. Case study approach designed for this research is a single case (embedded) in nature, which applies multi-level analysis. Analysis is carried out to discover the answers to understand the reporting of investigation, both stated by literature and meanings conceptualized by Tempo Magazine itself. ‘One observation’ is the terminology of investigative reporting (11-steps of investigative reporting by Paul N. Williams). Main Findings: Investigative reporting by Tempo Magazine is a rigorous and systematic reporting, disclosing wrongdoing based on evidence, facts and data. Investigation’s editorials of Tempo Magazine form special teams. The investigation team gives emphasis to quality and capacity of journalists, which coordinated by an editor. Investigasi rubric is systematically a reporting unit integrated with Tempo’s editorial management.  Applications of this study: Tempo’s investigative activity in Indonesia is not only a matter of press action. Its presence encourages democratic verve in Indonesia. Tempo’s reporting pattern represents social, cultural, politics and other subjects. As a matter of fact, Tempo’s investigative reporting is linked to Indonesia’s Human Rights Affair, in articulating freedom of thought and opinion. Thus, this research is able to be use as material for research in politics, sociology, communication, media and cultural studies. Novelty/Originality of this study: Investigative reporting is rather a unique topic of research. Most of the research discuss investigation within the news themes and its impact, or journalistic professionalism. Thus, the research on Tempo’s investigative reporting has its novelty.