Puan Maharani Denounces Hoax Claiming DPR Rejected Asset Forfeiture Bill

House Speaker Puan Maharani has raised concerns over the increasing spread of disinformation designed to undermine the credibility of the House of Representatives (DPR). Speaking at a plenary session marking the end of the sitting period, Puan highlighted a specific hoax claiming that the DPR had refused to continue deliberations on the Asset Forfeiture Bill. She stated that the rapid flow of information in the digital space has blurred the lines between constructive criticism and divisive provocation, with manipulated content being deliberately produced to discredit the legislative body. Puan identified several cases of false information, including fake quotes attributed to DPR leaders and old video footage repurposed with misleading narratives. She argued that such hoaxes create a false dichotomy between the DPR and the public, which can erode trust in representative institutions, weaken democratic legitimacy, and hinder rational public dialogue. The Speaker stressed the need for improved social media literacy among citizens and called on the state to develop effective communication strategies to build public trust, which she described as essential for political stability, economic growth, and democratic success. Puan also urged all parties to return to the foundation of national unity, asserting that maintaining unity does not mean eliminating criticism but ensuring it leads to national improvement. On legislative achievements, she reported that the DPR had completed five bills into law and approved 17 DPR-initiated bills, including a law on the Indonesian International Financial Centre aimed at enhancing the nation’s competitiveness as a global financial hub.