Beware of Polarisation Amid Global Turmoil

The issue of alleged foreign funding to several non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in Indonesia has once again captured public attention amid the intensifying global geopolitical situation, particularly the conflict in the Middle East region. This condition is assessed as having the potential to trigger domestic instability if not anticipated carefully.

Chairman General of Baramuda08 Indonesia, Rhesa Yogaswara, emphasised that the government needs to take serious steps to ensure transparency and accountability for every inflow of funds from abroad, especially those entering non-governmental organisations.

“In the midst of an uncertain global situation, we must not be complacent. This foreign funding issue could become an entry point for certain interests that potentially muddy the social-political conditions domestically,” Rhesa stated in his remarks on Saturday (28/3).

Rhesa assessed that supervision by state financial institutions and relevant authorities must be strengthened to prevent the emergence of wild speculation in society. Transparency is key so that this issue does not develop into a commotion that damages public trust in state institutions.

Rhesa reminded that the government also needs to be wary of potential movements that could disrupt the stability of the government of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka.

“Do not let certain parties exploit this situation to push for delegitimisation or even efforts to undermine the government midway. Political stability is the main foundation in facing current global pressures,” he stressed.

Nevertheless, Rhesa also reminded that the government should not generalise all NGOs. Many civil society organisations have so far played an active role in social development and community empowerment. Baramuda 08 encourages that the approach taken remains law-based, proportional, and upholds democratic principles.

“Cross-agency coordination, including financial authorities, intelligence, and relevant ministries, is considered a strategic step to ensure that every foreign fund inflow can be monitored accurately and not misused,” he explained.

Rhesa stated that amid increasingly complex global and domestic dynamics, Baramuda08 emphasises the importance of caution by all parties in responding to this issue so as not to muddy the atmosphere and to continue maintaining national unity.