By: Aditya Anggara)*
In recent times, social media and public spaces have been enlivened by the Indonesia Gelap movement, which calls for protests against various government policies. This action has attracted the attention of the public, especially the younger generation who are starting to become aware of social and political issues. On the one hand, this kind of movement emerged as part of the democratic climate, but it still needs to be monitored so that it does not deviate. However, on the other hand, it must be acknowledged that this movement also has great potential to be exploited by political interests hidden behind the spirit of idealism.
The phenomenon of social movement riders is not new in the history of Indonesian or world politics. In many cases, certain groups use the momentum of public unrest as a stepping stone for their own political agenda. This is also something to be wary of in the context of Dark Indonesia. Especially when the narrative used in the action begins to shift from concrete demands to personal or ideological attacks on certain political figures. Actions that were initially intended to fight for values and principles can quickly turn into political vehicles for interested and irresponsible parties.
One of the characteristics of a movement that is starting to be ridden is the blurring of the main objective of the action itself. For example, when the initial demand is related to transparency in energy or environmental management, but along the way it is dragged into election issues, image building, or cornering of certain institutions without a strong basis. This is where the critical point arises, the public can lose focus on the substance of the problem, and the action that should bring a solution actually increases polarization in society. This will also certainly lead to conflict between communities.
Head of the Presidential Communications Office, Hasan Nasbi, said the government asked the public not to be easily influenced by the provocative narrative echoed through the discourse of the Dark Indonesia action. This is because this narrative is considered not to reflect the factual conditions of the nation which remain conducive in various sectors. The Dark Indonesia action tends to be agitational in nature that wants to create mass anxiety and psychological chaos in society. The public does not need to be provoked, because economic activities are running normally, shopping centers are busy, and people’s purchasing power remains maintained. This shows that the national situation is safe and under control.
Then on the other hand, in this fast-paced digital era, information is easily twisted. Social media has become a free arena that allows false or manipulative narratives to spread widely in a short time. Hashtags and viral video clips often determine public opinion more than in-depth data and analysis. As a result, many people support or reject an action without really understanding the context and purpose of the movement. This is certainly a big challenge for the sustainability of a healthy democracy.
It is important to remember that democracy is not just about freedom of speech, but also about responsibility in speaking. Social action carried out with data, ethics, and a spirit of improvement is a strength that this nation really needs. On the other hand, if such action is used as a political commodity or merely a tool of provocation, then the loser is not only the government, but also the people who lose a healthy and productive discussion space.
The General Chairperson of the Central Board of Tunas Indonesia Raya (PP TIDAR), Rahayu Saraswati Djojohadikusumo also said that the Dark Indonesia narrative was rolled out by parties who were unhappy with the leadership of President Prabowo Subianto. She invited Indonesian youth to remain critical and think long-term in responding to various government policies that are being pioneered. She also believes that the steps taken by the government have been through careful consideration and input from economic experts, and these policies will lead Indonesia to a brighter future and towards the vision of Golden Indonesia 2045. In addition, she appealed to youth not to be easily influenced by pessimistic narratives, and invited the younger generation to continue to contribute positively according to their respective fields.
Then, in the midst of an increasingly complex situation, the role of the media, academics, and community leaders is crucial in maintaining the neutrality of public space. They must be a balance between the spirit of change and the integrity of information. Movements such as Indonesia Gelap must be monitored and guided so that they do not turn into tools of political chaos. Educating the public to think critically, verify information, and understand the root of the problem must be part of a long-term strategy in building a mature democracy.
Actions and protests are part of the mechanism of correction of public policies, but do not let the spirit be tainted by hidden ambitions that damage public trust. Only by prioritizing transparency, political literacy, and ethics in voicing aspirations, can movements like Indonesia Gelap become a positive force, not just a commotion that confuses the direction of the nation.
Thus, it is important for all of us not to get lost in the euphoria of social movements without a deep understanding. Appreciation for the spirit of change still needs to be given, but vigilance regarding the potential for political interests to be influenced must be maintained. Only in that way, social movements will truly become the power of the people, not the tools of certain elites.
)* The author is a political observer
