Don't spread fear, Indonesian presidential advisor urges amid mall security rumors
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Indonesian Presidential Advisor Hasan Nasbi urged the public to verify information that spreads fear, particularly regarding alleged security threats at shopping malls.
- Nasbi encouraged journalists to fact-check sensational news and emphasized that the country is in good condition with the government actively implementing programs.
- He cited President Prabowo Subianto's productive meeting with Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry officials as an example of positive government activity.
Hasan Nasbi, a Special Advisor to the Indonesian President for Communication and Media, has urged the public to exercise caution and verify information that could incite fear, especially concerning rumors of security threats at shopping malls in Jakarta and Surabaya.
"So, we should not amplify bad news. News that spreads fear should also be clarified. Well, you journalists can check for yourselves. You can do fact-checking to see if the "fear mongering" that is circulating is true or not," Nasbi stated at the Presidential Palace complex in Jakarta.
Nasbi encouraged the media to actively fact-check sensational news circulating on social media. He stressed the importance of not exaggerating negative reports and instead focusing on verifying their accuracy. This call comes amid widespread social media discussions about alleged security measures, such as malls being fenced off due to potential threats.
He further advised the public to maintain an optimistic outlook, asserting that the country's condition is stable and the government is diligently pursuing various programs. As an example of the government's active engagement, Nasbi highlighted a recent meeting between President Prabowo Subianto and over a hundred officials from the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN). He described the meeting as a productive, two-way communication session, underscoring the government's commitment to economic development and dialogue.
The advisor's remarks aim to counter the spread of misinformation and fear, promoting a more stable and informed public discourse while assuring citizens of the government's ongoing efforts and the nation's overall well-being.
So, we should not amplify bad news. News that spreads fear should also be clarified. Well, you journalists can check for yourselves. You can do fact-checking to see if the "fear mongering" that is circulating is true or not.
Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.