JAKARTA – Amid escalating natural disasters across Indonesia, the Indonesian National Police (POLRI) has reaffirmed its role as the frontline force in humanitarian missions. Yet ironically, this on-the-ground work is often overshadowed by negative framing on social media that fails to reflect field realities.
The statement was made by Sandri Rumanama, an international political analyst who also serves as Deputy Chairman of the Central Board of SEMMI and Director of the HAI Institute, in a firm address to the public on Tuesday (Dec 9).
“POLRI has always been at the forefront of every disaster response in Indonesia. However, social media framing of the police’s performance is often poorly and unfairly constructed,” he said.
According to Sandri, from the moment a disaster strikes, POLRI’s presence extends beyond security functions to lead evacuation efforts, distribute aid, rescue victims, and support social recovery for affected communities. This fact is undeniable.
He highlighted an imbalance in the digital opinion battlefield, where negative narratives often spread faster than on-the-ground facts.
“State communication must be far more comprehensive, strategic, and responsive. The state must not be outdone by influencers and trolls. It must be the primary driver of public narrative,” he emphasized.
Sandri stressed that today’s social media opinion wars are part of modern national defense. If not addressed seriously, state institutions including POLRI will continue to be targeted by misleading public perception campaigns.
Furthermore, he noted that information justice is an integral part of social justice. When humanitarian work is distorted by negative narratives, the cost is borne not only by institutions but also by public trust in the state itself.
“Defending the truth does not mean blindly defending institutions. It is about upholding facts, protecting humanitarian work, and safeguarding the nation’s dignity in the eyes of its people,” he explained.
In closing, Sandri called on all elements of the nation government, media, academics, community leaders, and youth to work together to maintain public discourse sanity, correct misinformation, and ensure that the values of humanity, justice, and truth remain at the forefront of every national event.
Editorial Note:
Reported by the PRIME NEWS POST correspondent, compiled from various media sources. Photo: documentation / public archive
