PPI Boss on 'Mas Bahlil Ganteng' Song: From Satire to Political Spotlight

Social media has recently been abuzz with the song ‘My Little Bolu Ketan’ targeting Energy and Mineral Resources Minister (ESDM) and Golkar Party Chairman Bahlil Lahadalia. Initially deemed satirical, the song has been rebranded by Golkar into a positive political talking point.

‘Viral songs on social media may have started as satire towards Bahlil, but in reality, they’ve become easy-listening and popular among the public. Today’s social media conversations are dominated by humorous songs about Bahlil. This means the public is indirectly growing fond of Bahlil as a political commodity. The public’s subconscious has been spellbound by Bahlil’s charm,’ said Adi Prayitno, Executive Director of Parameter Politik Indonesia, on Friday (29 May 2026).

Adi noted that Golkar played a key role in shifting the narrative from satire to positivity, repeatedly transforming negative issues into positive ones about Bahlil.

‘This is part of Golkar’s strategy to manage negative issues into positive ones regarding Bahlil. It’s true that when Bahlil first became minister, he was often criticised and bullied, but slowly the criticism turned positive. Bahlil remains a current political spotlight,’ he added.

Adi further stated that the public often forgets Bahlil’s extensive political experience, which has made him a master of political maneuvering.

‘This reality underscores how Bahlil, the master of political games, excels at navigating political dynamics. Even past criticisms have gone viral through public conversations via songs,’ he said.

However, Adi believes Bahlil’s positive image shouldn’t be a concern for 2029, as Prabowo Subianto remains unmatched in the upcoming election.

‘This spotlight merely indicates Bahlil is a new phenomenon in politics given his roles as ESDM Minister and Golkar Chairman. In the 2029 election, Prabowo faces little to no serious competition, with his public support growing stronger,’ he explained.

The viral Instagram and TikTok posts feature lyrics such as ‘MBG: Mas Bahlil Ganteng, buah apa yang paling manis buaahhlil, tambah ganteng aja, my little bolu ketan,’ as shared by netizens.

The song’s lyrics are a compilation of netizens’ social media comments stitched together. Golkar Secretary General Muhammad Sarmuji commented on the viral song, stating the party has no issue with it, finding it ‘cute’ and entertaining.

‘Personally, the song is quite “cute” and entertaining. If the people are happy, Golkar is happy. No problem. If others are happy, we’re happy,’ Sarmuji told reporters on Wednesday (27 May).