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Indonesian govt uncovers funding behind social media provocations

Source
Tempo - September 1, 2025

Dinda Shabrina, Jakarta – The Indonesian Minister of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) Meutya Hafid has revealed the existence of a significant amount of funding used to finance provocation and the spread of violent content on social media. This finding was obtained from monitoring the digital space in the past few days.

"In the past few days, we have been monitoring a significant flow of funds through digital platforms. Violent and anarchic content is broadcast live and monetized through donation features and large-value gifts," Meutya said in a post on her personal Instagram account on Monday, 1st September 2025.

Her statement also responds to the condition of Indonesia, which has been rocked by protests at various points since August 25, 2025, leading to arson and looting.

Meutya stated that some of the accounts broadcasting provocation content are also connected to online gambling networks. "The initial indications show an organized effort to utilize social media as a means of provocation," she said.

She explained that provocation in the digital space includes incitement to loot, attack, and the spreading of issues related to ethnicity, religion, race, and intergroup relations. She said misinformation spreads quickly, overwhelming accurate information and productive activities, such as learning and micro-, small-, and medium-sized businesses.

She emphasized that the government continues to respect the public's aspirations expressed in an orderly manner. However, Meutya reminded the public to be careful not to strengthen the provocation network that receives unwarranted financial incentives.

"Do not easily be provoked, do not spread unverified information, and get used to cross-checking. Use reliable sources, including media that adhere to journalistic ethics," said Meutya.

Source: https://en.tempo.co/read/2045092/indonesian-govt-uncovers-funding-behind-social-media-provocation

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