Creator Ferry Irwandi: Khariq Anhar Case is Criminalization

Content creator Ferry Irwandi attended the trial of Khariq Anhar, who faces charges under Indonesia's Information and Electronic Transactions Law (ITE). Irwandi testified as a social media observer and offered moral support to Anhar, a young creator.

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This is not just about Khariq. This is for millions of Indonesians who have creativity, freedom of expression, and voices wrapped in satire, comedy, and humor. They should not face consequences like imprisonment.

Following the hearing, Irwandi described the case as "a form of forced criminalization" that could endanger public freedom of expression. He characterized Anhar's content as satire and humor, common on social media. "This is not just about Khariq. This is for millions of Indonesians who have creativity, freedom of expression, and voices wrapped in satire, comedy, and humor. They should not face consequences like imprisonment," Irwandi stated.

Irwandi also pointed out irregularities in the prosecution's case. Anhar is accused of editing or overlaying text on a news report about labor figure Said Iqbal. However, Irwandi noted that Iqbal himself was not bothered by the content and was not the complainant. "Khariq edited a news report about Said Iqbal. Said Iqbal himself was not disturbed, not troubled, he was fine, and he was not reported by Said Iqbal. Even the person whose picture was used (Said Iqbal) supports Khariq," Irwandi said.

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Khariq edited a news report about Said Iqbal. Said Iqbal himself was not disturbed, not troubled, he was fine, and he was not reported by Said Iqbal. Even the person whose picture was used (Said Iqbal) supports Khariq.

Anhar, a university student, questioned the necessity of criminalizing critical content, noting his immediate detention after posting. "If this content is declared impermissible in court, then not only my future is at stake, but how will young people have to read the law first just to type content on social media?" he asked. His legal team is challenging the prolonged legal process, arguing it has caused both material and immaterial harm.

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If this content is declared impermissible in court, then not only my future is at stake, but how will young people have to read the law first just to type content on social media?