Viral Garuda Emblem Suspected AI-Generated for Pancasila Day, BRIN Apologises

Social media was flooded with a post by the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) featuring a Garuda image for Pancasila Day on Monday, 1 June 2026. The post drew criticism after netizens on X noted the Garuda design did not conform to the official national emblem guidelines.

Criticism arose as the number of feathers on the wings and tail were deemed incomplete. Some netizens suspected the image was created using artificial intelligence (AI).

The post was initially shared by BRIN’s official X account on Monday morning as part of Pancasila Day commemorations. Shortly after being posted, the comment section was filled with criticism from netizens highlighting the visual details of the Garuda emblem.

Many social media users questioned the precision in using the national symbol, especially as the post came from a government agency.

Netizens Highlight Feather Count Discrepancies

The main public concern was the feather count, which was deemed inconsistent with the national emblem’s regulations and philosophical meaning.

In the Pancasila Garuda emblem, specific feather counts hold symbolic meaning tied to Indonesia’s independence date of 17 August 1945.

Thus, the discrepancy in feather count in BRIN’s design immediately sparked criticism from netizens.

Many netizens suspected the design was AI-generated due to the imprecise visual representation of Garuda, which deviated from official guidelines.

Debates over AI use in government graphic design also surfaced on social media throughout Monday.

BRIN Issues Apology

Following widespread public criticism, BRIN issued an official apology on Monday afternoon.

In a post on its official account, BRIN acknowledged a lack of diligence in creating the Pancasila Day content.

“BRIN Indonesia extends its deepest apologies for the error in the Pancasila Day content shared,” the agency stated.

The agency also said the incident would prompt internal reviews to ensure more meticulous content creation and dissemination in future.