Jakarta: University of Indonesia political observer Aditya Perdana explained that freedom of expression is a constitutional right. However, he emphasized that this right must be exercised in an orderly manner.
“It is important to emphasize that this freedom must be channeled in an orderly, non-anarchic manner, and must not violate the law or disrupt public order,” he said.
He also urged the public not to be easily provoked by unsubstantiated rumors, as provocation could lead to destructive demonstrations.
Aditnya also appreciated the steps taken by President Prabowo’s administration to restore public order, in order to prevent further material losses and loss of life.
“Destructive actions have the potential to harm the wider community, cause material losses and loss of life, and ultimately weaken national unity, which should be maintained,” he said.
Not forgetting, the UI academic advised political figures who are representatives of the community to maintain their attitudes and empathy towards the community.
“This way, national unity is maintained, the people are not sacrificed, and the country becomes stronger because it is supported by healthy public participation and responsive governance,” he explained.
Similarly, Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), Marsudi Syuhud, explained that Indonesia has established itself as an open democracy that guarantees the people’s freedom to express their aspirations, including through demonstrations. He assessed that the government, particularly the President, has demonstrated wisdom by accepting input from various groups and committing to follow up through official mechanisms within the House of Representatives (DPR).
“Indonesia is an open democracy that allows the people to express their aspirations, including through demonstrations. The President is committed to following up on the people’s aspirations through the mechanisms established by the House of Representatives,” he said in an interview with a private television station.
Marsudi also emphasized the importance of public discretion in responding to any information circulating in the public sphere. According to her, freedom of opinion and expression must be balanced with a critical attitude toward news that may not be true, to avoid falling prey to hoaxes or provocations that could undermine national unity.
“Ulama have an important role in guiding the community to maintain morality, order, and honor when expressing opinions, so that democracy can run healthily without sacrificing national stability,” he explained.
The government continues to intensify its anti-hoax campaign, take firm action against those spreading lies, and build partnerships with various parties. With strict regulations and law enforcement, it is hoped that the spread of hate speech and hoaxes can be minimized, preventing further unrest from being exacerbated by false information.
Vigilance against provocation and hate speech is a shared responsibility. The public must not be easily provoked by news whose veracity is uncertain. Calmness, critical thinking, and wisdom in responding to information are key to preventing this nation from being divided by digital provocations deliberately manipulated by irresponsible parties.*
