Komdigi Responds to Criticism Over Prabowo's 'Londo Ireng' Remarks

The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) has responded to the controversy surrounding President Prabowo Subianto’s use of the term ‘Londo Ireng’, urging the public to consider the full context of his remarks. The statement, which referred to non-governmental organisations and journalists, drew sharp criticism and prompted protests from journalist alliances in several cities.

Director General of Public Communication and Media, Fifi Aleyda Yahya, stated that the President viewed criticism, including reports on damaged schools, as important input. She emphasised that the ‘Londo Ireng’ remark was a political metaphor intended to caution against parties deliberately constructing narratives that Indonesia is failing and without hope, rather than an attack on the press or specific professions.

‘Criticism is necessary, but it differs from efforts to systematically build pessimism,’ Fifi said. She reaffirmed the government’s respect for press freedom and the role of civil society in democracy, while inviting all parties to ensure public space is not dominated by narratives that ignore ongoing government efforts to resolve issues.

The ministry stressed that the government remains focused on delivering tangible results, accelerating on-the-ground improvements, and ensuring the public benefits from these actions. The controversy began when Prabowo used the term during a speech at the 28th anniversary of the National Awakening Party (PKB), leading a coalition of journalist organisations to condemn the label as demeaning and delegitimising journalistic work, noting its historical use to describe Indonesians perceived as serving colonial interests.