Indonesian Army Explains Reasons for Banning Screening of 'Pesta Babi' Film in Ternate

The Indonesian Army (TNI AD) has responded to the disruption of a public screening of the documentary film ‘Pesta Babi’ in Ternate, which has sparked public discussion. Issues of permits and SARA concerns were cited as the reasons.

This statement was issued by the Commander of Kodim 1501/Ternate, Colonel Inf Jani Setiadi, in a written release provided by the Indonesian Army’s Information Service.

Colonel Inf Jani Setiadi stated that he had reviewed the event involving the Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) Ternate and several student organisations. The screening was said to lack permits.

“Besides the permit aspect, the authorities also examined the material and theme of the event, which was deemed sensitive to society. The use of the film title and banners reading ‘Pesta Babi’ was considered potentially to cause misunderstandings and provoke negative reactions in a diverse community, especially if linked to SARA issues or previous social conflicts,” read the statement shared on Tuesday (12/5/2026).

The Kodim 1501/Ternate commander stated that the TNI still respects freedom of opinion and space for discussion among the public, journalists, and students. Nevertheless, he continued, the safety and peace of the community must be the top priority.

“We want to ensure that Ternate remains safe and comfortable for everyone. Therefore, we took a humane approach to the organisers. We urged that this event not proceed to prevent SARA issues that could damage our brotherhood in the Spice City,” said Jani Setiadi.

He noted that the TNI does not prohibit discussion activities as long as they follow procedures and have permits. He also mentioned that the material presented must not create potential conflicts in society.

“To date, security forces along with relevant parties continue to communicate and coordinate with the organisers to ensure the situation remains safe and controlled,” read the shared statement.

“The approach taken prioritises deliberation, education, and preventive measures to maintain security stability and community harmony in Ternate City,” he added.

It is known that the screening accompanied by a discussion was held by the Society of Indonesian Environmental Journalists (SIEJ) North Maluku together with the Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) Ternate City at the Pendopo Benteng Oranje, Gamalama Ward, Central Ternate, on Friday (8/5) at 20:00 WIT. Chair of AJI Ternate, Yunita Kaunar, condemned the disruption. According to her, this event is part of freedom of expression and the public’s right to information as guaranteed by the constitution.

“This is not just a disruption of a film screening, but a real form of intimidation against democratic space and citizens’ freedom of expression. The authorities should not be the ones determining which works the public can or cannot watch,” Yunita stressed, quoted from detikSulsel.

She stated that the presence of authorities from the start of the event, including documenting the committee and participants, had created fear and psychological pressure. Such methods, she said, remind the public of past suppression practices.

Yunita also assessed that the authorities’ reason of potential conflict cannot be used as a basis for disrupting the event. Because, according to her, the event proceeded peacefully and contained no provocative elements.

“If every critical work is seen as a threat and silenced, then democracy is in a dangerous situation. The state must not fear discussions and documentaries,” Yunita added.