Addressing the Scrutinised JAKI Reports: Public Trust at Stake

The case of AI-generated photos in reports on illegal parking via the Jakarta Kini (JAKI) app has revealed fundamental issues in digital bureaucracy. Is the failure due to individuals or the system? Public policy analyst from Trisakti University, Trubus Rahadiansyah, stressed that the problem lies more with the system than with the officers. “If the system is good, everything will run smoothly because it includes procedural mechanisms, rights and obligations, rewards, and punishments,” said Trubus when contacted by Kompas.com on Tuesday (7/4/2026). Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung previously emphasised that Penanganan Prasarana dan Sarana Umum (PPSU) officers should not be made scapegoats. “If we then blame the PPSU, that won’t work; the PPSU certainly aren’t the ones who manipulated the AI,” Pramono stated at City Hall on Tuesday (7/4/2026). Trubus agreed with this approach. He explained that those who create and disseminate content, including transmitting AI-generated photos, are more appropriate to be prosecuted under Law No. 1 of 2024 on Information and Electronic Transactions. “There are specific penalties for those who viralise electronic information that disturbs the public,” said Trubus. According to Trubus, the “short” and less accountable nature of the JAKI system is the root of the problem. Many public reports are not accommodated or responded to quickly. “In addition to JAKI, direct channels are also needed, such as the Direct Governor’s Report during Ahok’s time. That was more effective in maintaining public trust,” he said. Meanwhile, lower and middle-class communities rely more on direct channels. These limitations make the JAKI system not fully inclusive. The story emerged from a post by the Threads account @seinsh, who mentioned that their efforts to address illegal parking had not been resolved despite reporting to various parties.