Indonesia warns against hate speech ahead of Aug. 27 protest
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital urges citizens to avoid hate speech online ahead of a protest.
- The ministry calls for responsible social media use to maintain a conducive digital environment.
- A protest is planned for August 27, focusing on corruption eradication demands, with organizers stating it will be peaceful.
Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital has issued a warning against spreading hate speech and provocation on social media in anticipation of a protest scheduled for August 27. The ministry stressed the importance of responsible online behavior to ensure a positive digital atmosphere.
Of course, we hope those who use social media will use it responsibly, and will refrain from hate speech or incitement.
Alexander Sabar, Director General of Digital Space Supervision, urged citizens to use social media wisely. "Of course, we hope those who use social media will use it responsibly, and will refrain from hate speech or incitement," he stated. Sabar emphasized the desire for the upcoming activity to proceed smoothly, both physically and digitally.
The United Pati Community Alliance (AMPB) has announced that their protest, to be held in front of the Indonesian parliament complex in Jakarta, will be peaceful. The demonstration aims to highlight two key demands: the immediate ratification of the Asset Seizure Bill and the implementation of the death penalty for corruptors.
We hope that tomorrow's activity will run smoothly, not only in the physical space but also in our digital space.
AMPB Coordinator Supriyono, also known as Botok, clarified that the group's intention is not to cause unrest. "We came to Jakarta with no intention of causing unrest. We support the movement of our peers in Greater Jakarta who will hold a demonstration on August 27th," he said. Botok also emphasized that the AMPB protest does not seek to oust President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, stating, "We support Prabowo's government to improve."
We came to Jakarta with no intention of causing unrest. We support the movement of our peers in Greater Jakarta who will hold a demonstration on August 27th.
According to Supriyono, the AMPB's presence in Jakarta is to convey public aspirations regarding corruption eradication and to show support for broader protests occurring across the Greater Jakarta area. The swift police action in a separate gold shop robbery case, also reported on August 26, highlights the authorities' focus on maintaining order.
We support Prabowo's government to improve.
Originally published by Tempo in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.