UGM Student Council Chair Receives Threats After Criticising Child Suicide Cases in NTT; Palace Responds
Jakarta — State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi has said that the expression of criticism by students is legitimate, but must be carried out responsibly with due regard for ethics and propriety.
Prasetyo made the remarks in response to reports that Tiyo Ardianto, chair of the Student Executive Board (BEM) at Gadjah Mada University (UGM), had received threats after voicing criticism related to child suicide cases in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT).
“Conveying criticism or input — we have always said that is perfectly legitimate. However, we naturally urge everyone to express matters responsibly, and to uphold ethics, propriety, and Eastern manners,” Prasetyo said at the House of Representatives building in Senayan, Jakarta, on Wednesday.
According to Prasetyo, the expression of opinions and criticism forms part of the freedom of speech guaranteed by the constitution. Nevertheless, in conveying their views, all parties are urged to pay attention to the manner, channels and choice of words so that feedback is constructive and can serve as a shared learning experience.
He added that ethics and propriety — including avoiding the use of inappropriate language — must be maintained by anyone expressing an opinion, not just students or specific organisations.
“Avoid using impolite or inappropriate language. This applies to everyone, not only to our younger colleagues at BEM UGM,” he said.
Regarding the alleged intimidation directed at the BEM UGM chair, including threats sent via messages to him and members of his family, Prasetyo said the matter would be looked into further.
“We will check on that,” he concluded.
It was previously reported that BEM UGM chair Tiyo Ardianto received a WhatsApp message containing kidnapping threats from a number with a British country code. In addition to the kidnapping threat, the sender also accused Tiyo of being a foreign agent and seeking attention. “Foreign agent. Stop seeking the spotlight peddling rubbish narratives,” the message read.