West Sumatra Deputy Governor Vasco's Sharp Retort to Abu Janda on 'Barbar' Claim

West Sumatra Deputy Governor Vasco Ruseimy has responded to controversial remarks by social media activist Permadi Arya, known as Abu Janda. His accusation linking West Sumatra’s (Sumbar) people with barbaric behaviour was deemed to stem from a flawed and narrow perspective.

Vasco stressed that labelling the Minangkabau as barbaric disregards historical facts, noting that Sumbar has produced numerous national figures, thinkers, and leaders who significantly contributed to Indonesia’s independence.

“Calling West Sumatra barbaric is not only incorrect but also oversimplifies a civilisation built on values, customs, and a long history,” Vasco said in an Instagram post, cited by CNN on Saturday (30 May).

Addressing the “crooked and cracked spectacles” comment, the Gerindra Party politician argued that hasty judgments about a region rich in customs, culture, and religious values like Sumbar are misplaced. He retorted that such accusations reflect the critic’s own state, not the Minangkabau reality.

“Sometimes, what appears barbaric isn’t due to the subject but the critic’s crooked and cracked spectacles. Especially when thinking Sumbar is barbaric. According to you, what’s crooked and cracked?” Vasco quipped, targeting those making the allegations.

Vasco urged Sumbar residents to address the controversy calmly and avoid being provoked. He warned that excessive reactions would only give a platform to those seeking attention through controversy to maintain social media relevance.

“If asked, my response is simply to smile, or even laugh inwardly. Some things shouldn’t be exaggerated,” he said.

Furthermore, Vasco reminded of the Minangkabau essence rooted in the philosophy of “Adat Basandi Syarak, Syarak Basandi Kitabullah” (Customs based on Sharia, Sharia based on the Quran). This philosophy has long taught social maturity, independence through the merantau tradition, and the principle of respecting local rules wherever one is, encapsulated in the belief “where the earth is trodden, there the sky is upheld”.

For Vasco, the true strength of Sumbar’s people lies not in being rigid or self-righteous, but in steadfast adherence to customs while remaining courteous and warm towards those with good intentions. He believes a region’s dignity is not defined by others’ taunts but by how its people uphold their honour.

“If someone judges without understanding, let it be. Not every statement needs a lengthy reply, nor every provocation a battle. Sometimes, simply showing who we truly are suffices,” Vasco concluded.