Prabowo Urged to Apologize for Calling Journalists 'Londo Ireng'

President Prabowo Subianto is facing calls for an apology after referring to journalists as 'londo ireng,' a Javanese term roughly translating to 'black Dutch,' which he used to describe individuals perceived as traitors or those serving foreign interests. Bayu Wardhana, secretary general of the Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) Indonesia, stated that this characterization is baseless and undermines the vital role journalists play in reporting facts, even when those facts are critical of government programs. Wardhana urged the president to view such reporting as constructive criticism rather than a personal attack, citing the example of journalists covering issues within Prabowo's flagship free nutritious meal program. He advised Prabowo to address the substance of the criticism, such as improving program management, rather than attacking the messengers. The AJI secretary general drew parallels between Prabowo's remarks and a previous insult directed at journalists by lawyer Hotman Paris Hutapea, emphasizing the need for the president to improve his public speaking and issue an open apology. Prabowo made the controversial statement during a speech at the National Awakening Party's (PKB) 28th anniversary celebration, where he claimed that 'londo ireng' individuals still exist today, now disguised as journalists, observers, activists, and NGO members. He also criticized journalists for focusing on negative aspects, such as collapsed schools, while overlooking the government's efforts to repair thousands of educational facilities.

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The President is advised to apologize for this and improve his speeches.