Public Figures and Academics Urge: Beware of Hoaxes and Provocative Demonstrations, Avoid Anarchic Actions
Jakarta – Following the outbreak of demonstrations in various regions, a series of hoaxes have been spread, deliberately intended to exacerbate the situation. One such hoax claims that thousands of people from various regions, including West Java, Central Java, East Java, Banten, Lampung, and Makassar, will descend on Jakarta for a large-scale demonstration.
However, the claim was proven to be false and was allegedly intended to inflame the spirits of anti-government groups in the capital.
Furthermore, other hoaxes emerged alleging repressive actions by the authorities. This false information spread quickly through social media and instant messaging services, exacerbating tensions on the ground.
A number of community leaders, academics, and organizations have also called for vigilance against hoaxes, provocations, and potential anarchic actions that could divide society.
The Chairman of the Presidium of the Indonesian Anti-Defamation Society (Mafindo), Septiaji Eko Nugroho, reminded the public not to be easily provoked by content of unknown origin in the digital space.
“The public should not be easily provoked by unclear content, hoaxes, or hate speech,” he said.
Actress Nana Mirdad also expressed similar sentiments, urging the public to be wiser in selecting and disseminating information.
“Be careful in selecting and sharing news that is true and not,” said Nana.
He stressed the importance of staying focused on the goal of the action and not getting caught up in misleading information.
Meanwhile, the General Chairperson of the Indonesian Police’s Sons and Daughters Family (KBPP Polri), Evita Nursanty, issued strict instructions to all members and administrators not to be provoked by issues that have the potential to disrupt security stability.
“As the General Chairperson of the Indonesian National Police’s Police Unit (KBPP), I have instructed all administrators and members not to be provoked by issues or invitations that could potentially disrupt security,” Evita emphasized.
Dr. Radius Setiyawan, a cultural and media studies expert from Muhammadiyah University of Surabaya, also reminded that the digital space is now filled with various information, including misleading ones.
“In these chaotic times, people need to be careful and not rush to believe every piece of news,” he said, emphasizing the importance of digital literacy as a primary bulwark against the torrent of hoaxes.
Furthermore, the Deputy Mayor of Bandung also urged all elements of society to maintain peace and order amidst the dynamic social situation. The rise of hoaxes, which now often utilize artificial intelligence (AI), heightens the urgency of vigilance.
As reported, AI-based hoax content has been increasingly circulating during the wave of demonstrations, making the public more vulnerable to manipulation.
As the situation continues to evolve, the public is urged to remain critical, verify information from official sources, and avoid spreading potentially divisive content. Collective awareness is key to maintaining social stability and ensuring actions remain within peaceful and constitutional boundaries.
