By: Rivka Mayangsari*
Recently, Indonesia’s public sphere has been stirred by a provocative and pessimistic issue, namely the “Indonesia Gelap” (Dark Indonesia) narrative. This issue appears to have been deliberately propagated by certain groups who seem to want to create unrest within society. However, behind its massive and coordinated spread, there lies a concealed political agenda that needs to be watched out for.
Intelligence observer Amir Hamzah assesses that the spread of the “Indonesia Gelap” issue did not purely emerge from spontaneous public unrest. He emphasizes that the actions raising this issue, particularly the demonstrations in various cities with similar themes in a short period, indicate a well-planned effort. Amir believes that this movement is not merely an expression from the people, but rather, there are specific parties deliberately moving and directing these actions for certain political objectives.
Amir also explained that this narrative was intentionally constructed to discredit the government led by President Prabowo Subianto, while also opening political space for other figures with interests. According to him, this scenario aims to shape public opinion toward the perception that the current government is authoritarian, even though the reality is far from such accusations.
President Prabowo Subianto himself has responded to this issue with calm and wisdom. He expressed his bewilderment at the emergence of a narrative suggesting that Indonesia is in a “dark” state, as every day he sees the nation’s situation as bright and full of hope. Prabowo also expressed his confidence that the lies propagated through narratives like “Indonesia Gelap” will eventually be exposed and refuted by the truth.
Nevertheless, Prabowo stressed that he has never prohibited the people from expressing their opinions, including criticisms of the nation’s situation. He even welcomes society’s right to voice their opinions, including the view that Indonesia is in a “dark” state, as long as it is expressed in good faith. However, Prabowo remains optimistic that Indonesia will have a brighter future, as long as all parties unite and continue to work hard for the people’s welfare.
The Chairman of the National Mandate Party (PAN), Zulkifli Hasan, also shared his views on this issue. He expressed optimism that Indonesia, both now and in the future, will be in a state of brightness, like the midday sun. Zulhas believes it is not a problem if some parties continue to push the opinion that Indonesia is in a “dark” state because the government, particularly the ministers, will continue to work hard to bring about real change and progress for the nation.
Zulhas emphasized that the government will respond to this pessimistic narrative not with words, but with tangible evidence on the ground. According to him, through the hard work of all government elements, the people will see for themselves that Indonesia is moving toward a much brighter and promising future.
In addition, the Deputy Minister of Religion, Romo HR Muhammad Syafi’i, also expressed his opinion regarding the proliferation of the “Indonesia Gelap” narrative. He stressed that the nation’s socio-cultural resilience needs to be continuously strengthened as the foundation for maintaining national stability. According to him, the collective awareness of the people about the nation’s identity is key to fortifying this socio-cultural resilience.
Romo Syafi’i also urged the public not to be easily provoked by baseless and misleading narratives like the “Indonesia Gelap” issue. He emphasized that the government, under President Prabowo’s leadership, has demonstrated a real commitment to delivering justice and welfare to all Indonesians, and this effort needs to be supported by all elements of the nation.
Pessimistic narratives like “Indonesia Gelap” are not new in the world of politics. Throughout history, such issues have often been used as a tool to stir social unrest and create political space for certain groups. Tactics like this often target the stability of the country, with the hope that society will become divided and public trust in the government will weaken.
However, the people of Indonesia have become increasingly wise in responding to various forms of propaganda. It is time for the public to be more discerning in receiving information and not easily provoked by cheap issues created for the interests of a few. The “Indonesia Gelap” narrative not only has the potential to tarnish the nation’s image in the eyes of the world but could also undermine the unity and cohesion that has been built so far.
Now, it is more important for the people to prove their love for the homeland by joining hands, strengthening optimism, and continuing to trust the government’s efforts to work for the nation’s progress. Indonesia does not need pessimistic narratives, but rather, the fighting spirit and real work from all its people to realize a bright future.
The “Indonesia Gelap” narrative is not just an issue; it is a form of hidden agenda that should be carefully watched. It is time for the public to open their eyes and ears, and to be critical, so as not to fall victim to political scenarios that seek to destroy trust and national stability.
*) Social and Political Observer
