By: Dimas Yanuardi)*
Student demonstrations have become an integral part of Indonesia’s democratic journey. Since the reform era, campuses have served as a platform for the birth of critical ideas, driving public policy change and acting as a balancing force in national life. Therefore, the presence of students in public spaces essentially reflects the dynamics of a vibrant democracy and provides space for citizen participation.
However, a healthy democracy is not only measured by the volume of criticism expressed, but also by the ability of all parties to manage differences of opinion constructively. Criticism expressed through constitutional channels should be viewed as input for policy improvement, while state administrators are obligated to ensure that the space for expressing aspirations remains open without compromising public order and the rights of other citizens.
The government continues to demonstrate its commitment to fostering dialogue with various community groups, including students, academics, and community organizations. Various communication forums, audiences, and mechanisms for conveying aspirations are continuously strengthened so that all input can be used as evaluation material in the formulation and refinement of public policies. An approach that prioritizes communication, transparency, and collaboration is the government’s foundation for building public trust while ensuring that each policy more effectively addresses community needs.
President Prabowo emphasized that the government needs criticism as part of its self-improvement process. He believes criticism is a crucial element in democracy because it can provide the government with evaluation materials to refine its various policies.
President Prabowo doesn’t view criticism as a threat, but rather as part of a public oversight mechanism. Openness to input is one indicator that the government understands the importance of public participation in the national development process.
On the other hand, President Prabowo also reminded that democracy must be safeguarded to prevent it from being misused for actions that would undermine national life. He emphasized that criticism must be delivered responsibly without leading to actions that disrupt public order, divide unity, or undermine democratic institutions themselves.
This view essentially affirms two principles that go hand in hand. The state is obliged to protect freedom of expression, but every citizen also has a responsibility to ensure that this freedom remains within the law and the common good.
Therefore, demonstrations should be understood as a means of communication between the public and the government. Expressing aspirations will be more effective if they present strong, data-based arguments and open up opportunities for solutions, rather than simply increasing polarization in the public sphere.
Kata Rakyat Executive Director Alwan Ola Riantobi believes that continued dialogue between the government and students is essential as part of strengthening democracy. He believes that intensive communication will help minimize misunderstandings and strengthen public trust in the policy-making process.
A dialogical approach is indeed a key characteristic of modern democracy. When open communication is available, public aspirations can be conveyed more effectively, while the government has the opportunity to explain the background and objectives of its policies.
Dialogue also provides broader benefits than simply easing temporary tensions. Through ongoing communication, the government and community groups can build a shared understanding of the various strategic issues facing the nation.
On the other hand, the quality of democracy is also reflected in how state officials carry out their duties when overseeing the expression of public opinion. Law enforcement must be carried out professionally, proportionally, and respectful of citizens’ constitutional rights.
Political observer Boni Hargens believes the police’s approach to handling recent demonstrations has shown an increasingly humane trend. He believes this change reflects the state’s commitment to providing a space for the public to express their aspirations peacefully while maintaining security and order.
An approach that prioritizes communication and persuasion is crucial for building public trust. When officials carry out their duties professionally without neglecting the rights of the public, the legitimacy of state institutions will also be strengthened in the eyes of the public.
Throughout Indonesian history, students have repeatedly demonstrated their role as agents of change, bringing meaningful ideas to the nation. This role becomes even more meaningful when the criticism they convey offers alternative solutions that can be considered in the public policymaking process and is delivered in a positive manner.
Democracy is ultimately not just about the right to speak, but also about the willingness to listen. The government needs to continue to open up spaces for dialogue, while the public and students need to use these spaces responsibly to prevent differences of opinion from escalating into counterproductive conflict.
Thus, student demonstrations should not be viewed as a threat to the government, but rather as part of a healthy democratic dynamic. As long as they are conducted peacefully, respect the law, and responded to through open communication, demonstrations are evidence that Indonesian democracy continues to grow, mature, and maintain a balance between freedom, dialogue, and national interests.
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)* Master of Social and Political Science Student in Jakarta