Mahar Prastowo
(He/Him)
Bogota D.C., Jakarta
As seen in:
Kompasiana,
Tabloid Lugas
Covers:
I cover finance, arts, culture, education, technology, and social issues, exploring their intersections with media, communication, and digital transformation.
Doesn't Cover:
I do not cover gossip, tabloid sensationalism, purely promotional content, or unverified speculation. My focus remains on well-researched, factual, and impactful journalism.
Bung Karno: Kemerdekaan hanyalah jembatan emas, di seberangnya kita harus membangun.
indonesia.go.id/
Interview
What was your first job as a journalist?
My first job as a journalist was as a reporter for Suara Melayu Weekly, where I covered Social Culture in Southeast Asia
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes, I’ve used a typewriter, and there’s something nostalgic and satisfying about the sound of the keys and the ding of the carriage return. It’s a reminder of journalism’s rich history before the digital age
How is social media changing news?
Social media has transformed news in many ways. On the positive side, it has made news more immediate and accessible, allowing journalists to reach wider audiences and engage directly with readers. It has also become a powerful tool for discovering stories, sourcing information, and amplifying underreported issues.However, social media also presents challenges, such as the spread of misinformation, the pressure to prioritize speed over accuracy, and the increasing difficulty of maintaining journalistic integrity in a fast-paced, algorithm-driven environment. Ultimately, while social media enhances journalism, it also reinforces the need for critical thinking and responsible reporting.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
One of my favorite fictional journalists is Clark Kent from Superman. Despite his secret identity, he embodies the core values of journalism—seeking the truth, holding the powerful accountable, and standing up for justice. His work at The Daily Planet reflects the idealistic side of journalism, reminding us why storytelling and investigative reporting matter.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Being a journalist means seeking and reporting the truth with integrity, curiosity, and responsibility. It’s about holding power accountable, amplifying underrepresented voices, and providing the public with accurate, well-researched information so they can make informed decisions.Journalism isn’t just about breaking news—it’s about storytelling that informs, educates, and sometimes even inspires change. In an era of misinformation, the role of a journalist is more critical than ever: to separate fact from fiction and uphold the principles of ethical reporting.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
One of the funniest news-related hashtags I’ve seen is
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I prefer to be pitched via email with a clear, concise subject line that highlights the story angle. A strong pitch should be relevant to my beat, well-researched, and provide key details upfront—who, what, when, where, and why it matters. I appreciate pitches that include credible sources, data, or exclusive insights that add value to the story.Generic mass pitches with no personalization usually get ignored, so a little effort in understanding my reporting focus goes a long way!
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
I use a combination of tools to stay organized and efficient in my work. For writing and editing, I rely on Google Docs and Microsoft Word.
What's your favorite social network?
Twitter (now X)
Who do you wish followed you?
Anyone who values good journalism, compelling stories, and maybe a little behind-the-scenes look at the reporting process!
Why did you become a journalist?
I became a journalist because I believe in the power of storytelling to inform, inspire, and drive change. From an early age, I was drawn to uncovering the truth and giving a voice to those who might not otherwise be heard. Journalism allows me to explore different perspectives, hold the powerful accountable, and contribute to a more informed society. It’s not just a profession—it’s a responsibility and a passion.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Yes, I was a writer and editor for my high school newspaper. I covered school events, student achievements, and local news. It was my first experience with deadlines, interviewing sources, and crafting compelling stories, which fueled my passion for journalism.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
One of the stories I’m most proud of is politic and law. It focused on exposing corruption. The process involved deep research, speaking with sources who were directly affected, and ensuring the story was both accurate and compelling. Seeing the public response and how it contributed to meaningful discussions made it one of the most fulfilling pieces I’ve worked on.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
To aspiring journalists, my advice is to stay curious, persistent, and ethical. Always seek the truth and verify your sources before publishing. Journalism is about serving the public, so prioritize accuracy over speed. Develop strong writing and storytelling skills, and embrace digital tools to adapt to the evolving media landscape. Most importantly, never stop learning—every story is an opportunity to grow and make an impact.
When's the best time to pitch you?
The best time to pitch me is during regular working hours, preferably in the morning when I’m reviewing emails and planning my coverage. A well-structured, relevant pitch with a clear angle will always stand out—bonus points if it’s not sent late at night or over the weekend!
What's the best pitch you ever got?
The best pitch I ever received was one that was timely, well-researched, and directly relevant to my beat. It introduced a compelling human story backed by strong data and expert sources, making it easy to see its news value. The PR person or source had clearly done their homework, understanding my reporting style and what would resonate with my audience. It wasn’t just a generic press release—it was a well-thought-out pitch that led to a meaningful and impactful article.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
The worst pitches are usually the ones that are completely irrelevant to my beat or audience. For example, receiving a pitch about luxury fashion trends when I focus on investigative journalism and public policy. Another common issue is overly promotional pitches disguised as news, lacking any real story angle. A good pitch should be clear, relevant, and offer something valuable to the readers
What's your favorite drink?
A strong cup of black coffee—because every good story starts with caffeine!
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
When I’m not at a computer, I’m most likely out exploring new places, reading a book, or having conversations that spark new story ideas. I also enjoy spending time in nature—it’s a great way to recharge and find inspiration for my next piece.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
I frequently read Kompas because of its balanced reporting and deep analysis of Indonesian and global issues. It’s a great source for quality journalism.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
Good journalism goes beyond headlines—it tells the full story and its impact on people’s lives.
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