Government Urged to Build Inclusive Dialogue in Response to Demonstrations

A political analyst, Firman Tendry, has suggested the government needs to build a more inclusive and responsive dialogue mechanism in response to the various demonstrations that have occurred recently. He said the absence of a swift and measured response risks turning peaceful actions into broader social tensions that are more difficult to control. “Inclusive dialogue is necessary, not just reacting after a demonstration grows,” Firman said in a statement received in Jakarta on Wednesday. He noted that various campus alliances have taken to the streets to voice public concerns covering economic issues, social policy, legislative revisions, environmental matters, and law enforcement. According to him, transparency in the budgeting of priority programmes and openness to public evaluation are the minimum steps expected. “For policymakers at both the local and national level, these actions are a strong signal that policy communication needs fundamental improvement,” he stated. Dudung said in Jakarta on Friday that President Prabowo Subianto and the government are open to the public conveying criticism and suggestions regarding the programme. “The government will be open, even the President will be open to any suggestions and input. As for the timing, I can do it anytime,” he said. He added that the complaint and aspiration service managed by the Presidential Staff Office can also be utilised by the public to provide input on the programme. According to him, the Presidential Staff Office is ready to engage in dialogue with community groups that have differing views on the programme. Dudung also invited all parties to build the nation with a comprehensive approach and not solely focus on negative views of government programmes.