Road Ruler Mentality: Expert Says Officials Set a Bad Example

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The problem of traffic jams in Indonesia, especially during road repairs or lane narrowings (bottlenecks), seems never-ending. However, the root cause of this chaos is not solely due to infrastructure factors, but rather the lack of ethics and empathy from road users. Regrettably, this bad behaviour on the roads is often displayed by rogue law enforcers and state officials who should serve as examples for the public. “Road users in Indonesia should not always be blamed on the civil society. In fact, sometimes law enforcers and state apparatus give bad examples, demanding exclusivity,” said Jusri to Kompas.com on Tuesday (21/4/2026). Jusri emphasised that, ethically, these officials are people paid by public taxes. They should give priority and service to civil society, not the other way around. According to Jusri, this behaviour has systemic impacts. Considering Indonesia’s culture that tends to imitate (duplication), the selfish behaviour of leaders on the roads becomes a wrong lesson for the wider society. “Our habit is duplication. With already low awareness, seeing that (officials’ behaviour) is the most effective learning for us as imitators. That’s why no one wants to yield. Ethics and empathy seem no longer our culture on the roads,” he said. Furthermore, Jusri assessed that a person’s true character can be clearly seen from their road behaviour. People who are disorderly, impatient, and fond of cutting into others’ lanes reflect everyday character, including potential corrupt behaviour. “If we want to see the nation, just look at how they behave on the roads. Character is already visible. People who are disorderly, corruptors, those seeking attention, all are reflected in our road manners,” Jusri stated. He also highlighted the use of strobe lights and sirens on private vehicles or those not intended for such purposes as a form of “uncivilised” behaviour that disrupts public order. “It’s a reflection of their daily lives. Even if they say it’s the driver, if they allow it or don’t prohibit it, then they are the same. This is the root of the chaos on our roads,” said Jusri.