National Figures Urge Public to Maintain Order, Avoid Destructive Actions
Jakarta – University of Indonesia academic Aditya Perdana reminded the public not to be easily provoked into participating in demonstrations that could lead to anarchy. He stated that freedom of expression is a constitutional right, but it must be exercised in an orderly manner and not disrupt social order.
“It is important to emphasize that this freedom must be exercised in an orderly manner, not anarchically, and not violate the law or disrupt public order,” Aditya said in Jakarta.
He believes destructive actions do not benefit the public but instead cause harm. Both material losses and casualties are feared to increase if the public continues to be provoked by unverified rumors.
“Destructive actions have the potential to harm the wider community, causing material losses and casualties, and ultimately weakening the national unity that must be maintained,” he added.
Aditya also appreciated the government’s efforts under President Prabowo Subianto’s leadership to maintain stability and prevent potential unrest. He stated that public order is a primary prerequisite for inclusive national development. He also reminded political elites to always maintain a positive attitude and empathy for the people.
“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, the Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), KH. Marsudi Syuhud, assessed that Indonesia has become an open democracy that provides space for the people to express their aspirations, including through demonstrations. However, he emphasized the importance of maintaining order to prevent abuse of this freedom.
“Indonesia is an open democracy that provides space for 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 (DPR),” Marsudi stated in an interview with a private television station.
Marsudi also supported the government’s efforts to strengthen digital literacy and take firm action against the spread of hoaxes and hate speech. He hopes the public will be calmer, more critical, and wiser in receiving information so they won’t be easily provoked by those seeking to divide the nation.
“The public should be more discerning in responding to various information circulating in the public sphere. Avoid the trap of hoaxes and provocations that could threaten national unity,” he concluded.
