BİK Sakarya Branch Reopens with Focus on Local Media and Disinformation Fight

The Press Advertisement Agency (BİK) Sakarya Regional Directorate officially reopened on September 25 in a new building in Arifiye after being temporarily closed in July 2024 and linked to Istanbul. The ceremony was attended by Communications Director Prof. Dr. Burhanettin Duran, Sakarya Governor Rahmi Doğan, Mayor Yusuf Alemdar, and BİK Director General Abdulkadir Çay.

Duran described local media as the "voice of the nation" and vital for crisis communication, while labeling disinformation a direct threat to national security. He stressed the need for ethical journalism and stated the Presidency is working to increase Turkey's communication capacity.

“Local media is an exceptional channel that conveys the direct voice of the people. Especially in crisis and disaster communication processes, the responsibility undertaken by the local press is of critical importance.”

Çay announced that official advertisement revenues reached 5.258 billion lira and support payments exceeded 268 million lira in the first eight months of 2026. He added that 131 million lira was made available as resources and an employment program covering 1,075 businesses was launched with İŞKUR.

The reopened branch aims to serve as a key service point for the region's press sector. Officials highlighted ongoing infrastructure upgrades and cooperation with universities to bring young talent into the industry.