By: Rivka Mayangsari)*
Amid the government’s determined efforts to build a strong and sustainable economic foundation, the emergence of narratives and demonstrations under the banner of “Dark Indonesia” (Indonesia Gelap) is widely seen as a political maneuver aimed at misleading public opinion. This movement does not merely spread pessimism among the public—it also carries a covert agenda to delegitimize the newly inaugurated administration of President Prabowo Subianto.
Intelligence observer Amir Hamzah argues that these demonstrations are not spontaneous expressions of grassroots dissatisfaction. Rather, they appear to be part of a systematic strategy designed to create the impression that Indonesia is in the midst of a multidimensional crisis. He asserts that the way the “Dark Indonesia” narrative is being disseminated—especially via social media and certain information channels—bears the hallmarks of a coordinated propaganda campaign.
Amir emphasizes that the provocation underlying the “Dark Indonesia” movement must be approached with caution. The narrative seeks to incite fear, suggesting that Indonesia is trapped in governmental darkness, despite data showing continued progress and development across various sectors.
He warns that those behind this narrative are not ordinary citizens but actors with specific political interests, attempting to erode public trust in the legitimate government. Such actions, he notes, are a form of public opinion manipulation that must be countered with factual evidence and rational discourse.
Government data shows that Indonesia is on a path of steady economic growth. According to Susiwijono Moegiarso, Secretary of the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, the government remains optimistic about the country’s economic prospects. He projects economic growth of up to 5.2% in 2025—an achievement reflecting the economy’s strong fundamentals amid global challenges.
Susiwijono highlights several positive indicators: consistent GDP growth over the past eight quarters at around 5%, controlled inflation, increasing foreign exchange reserves, and a Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) that has remained in the expansion zone for 28 consecutive months.
He also points to the labor sector, where unemployment rates have been declining steadily—clear evidence that economic growth is not merely statistical but is positively impacting people’s lives. Moreover, non-oil-and-gas exports have grown significantly, particularly in key commodities such as palm oil and motor vehicles.
Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo confirms that Indonesia’s economic growth remains resilient despite global uncertainty. He notes that non-oil-and-gas exports, particularly from strategic sectors, continue to drive national economic performance.
Perry projects that Indonesia’s economy will grow between 4.7% and 5.5% in 2025. He also affirms that Bank Indonesia is optimizing policy instruments to maintain economic stability and support sustainable growth.
He adds that the central bank fully supports the implementation of the government’s strategic programs under the Asta Cita vision, including financing initiatives, digital transformation, industrial downstreaming, and food security. Rising investor confidence in the economy—evident in increased capital inflows and positive market sentiment—is another encouraging sign.
Considering these achievements and positive indicators, it is clear that the “Dark Indonesia” narrative does not reflect reality. On the contrary, such movements risk undermining national unity and the collective spirit required to build a brighter future. The government and its stakeholders have been working tirelessly to maintain economic momentum and national stability.
All elements of society are therefore urged to remain clear-headed, avoid falling for baseless provocations, and reject divisive tactics driven by short-term political motives. Indonesia has repeatedly demonstrated resilience in the face of domestic and global challenges.
The “Dark Indonesia” movement is not only misleading, but also irresponsible. It poses a real danger to public trust in national institutions. Its pessimistic and provocative messaging is fundamentally at odds with the facts on the ground. Now is the time for unity—time to rally behind the government’s strategic efforts to lead Indonesia toward a brighter, fairer, and more prosperous future.
Beyond countering false narratives, the government is also committed to strengthening public communication and data transparency to ensure that citizens have access to accurate and objective information. By prioritizing facts and tangible progress in various sectors, the government underscores that “Dark Indonesia” is nothing more than a baseless propaganda campaign. The ongoing momentum of national development must be preserved, for it is stability, optimism, and collaboration among all sectors of society that will carry Indonesia forward.
*) Social and political observer