ITB Rector Meets Viking Club Chief After 'Pest' Remark Sparks Social Media Uproar

Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) has issued an apology following a viral social media post that controversially referred to supporters of the Persib Bandung football club, known as 'Bobotoh,' as 'pests.' The inflammatory statement, which originated from an unofficial ITB-related account, sparked outrage and concern among fans and the wider community.

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I am very sorry that a commotion has occurred which has been shared on social media. We know that life on social media sometimes rolls into a big snowball and impacts harmony.

ITB Rector Tatacipta Dirgantara expressed deep regret over the incident, emphasizing that such provocative language does not align with the university's academic culture or values. "We absolutely do not condone and regret, even condemn, statements that are provocative, inciting, and divisive," Dirgantara stated in a video message. He stressed that ITB views itself as part of a larger community and aims to foster a safe and harmonious environment in Bandung.

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We absolutely do not condone and regret, even condemn, statements that are provocative, inciting, and divisive.

In response to the controversy, ITB leadership met with representatives from the Viking Persib Club. During the meeting, Dirgantara reiterated the university's stance against the offensive remarks and assured that appropriate internal disciplinary actions would be taken against the individual responsible for the post. Tobias Ginanjar, Chairman of the Viking Persib Club, urged supporters not to be provoked by irresponsible online behavior. He highlighted that many within the ITB community, including faculty members, are also supporters of Persib, countering any narrative that ITB is anti-Bobotoh.

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So if there is a narrative that says ITB is anti-Bobotoh, that is not true.