intimidation Tactics Target Indonesian News Outlet Tempo Following Criticism of Government Policies
Table of Contents
- 1. intimidation Tactics Target Indonesian News Outlet Tempo Following Criticism of Government Policies
- 2. Targeted Journalist and the Attempt to Silence Dissent
- 3. A History of Silencing Dissent
- 4. Government Response and Next Steps
- 5. Implications for Indonesia and the Global Press Freedom Landscape
- 6. Indonesia’s Stance on Press Freedom: An Interview with Dr. Anisa Rahman on the Tempo Intimidation Case
- 7. The Context of Press Freedom in Indonesia
- 8. Impact on the Media and Society
- 9. The Government’s Response and International Implications
- 10. Looking Ahead
Jakarta, Indonesia – march 21, 2025
In a chilling echo of tactics used against journalists in other parts of the world, Indonesia’s leading independent news outlet, Tempo, was targeted with a disturbing act of intimidation. On March 19, 2025, a severed pig’s head was delivered to their Jakarta office, a move widely seen as a direct assault on press freedom following critical reporting on President Prabowo Subianto’s governance.
The incident occurred weeks after President Subianto publicly alleged that foreign-funded media organizations were attempting to “divide” the country. This rhetoric, reminiscent of accusations leveled against media outlets in the United States by some politicians, has raised concerns about the potential erosion of press freedoms in Indonesia, the world’s third-largest democracy.
Adding to the pressure, on the same day as the delivery, protesters gathered outside Indonesia’s Press council building, demanding action against Tempo. The protesters accused the outlet of acting as a “foreign agent” in the interest of billionaire financier George Soros, a frequent target of conspiracy theories both in the U.S.and abroad.
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has condemned the harassment. This is a dangerous and intentional act of intimidation,”
said CPJ’s Asia Program Coordinator Beh Lih Yi. Tempo is well-known internationally for its fiercely independent reporting; using this playbook from autocrats elsewhere simply will not work. President Prabowo Subianto must uphold press freedom and condemn this highly provocative act if he wants Indonesia to be taken seriously as the world’s third-largest democracy.
Targeted Journalist and the Attempt to Silence Dissent
According to Wahyu dhyatmika, chief executive of Tempo‘s digital team, the pig’s head, sent in a cardboard box, was specifically addressed to a female journalist at Tempo who covers politics and hosts a popular podcast. Dhyatmika characterized the incident as a blatant attempt to “scare and silence” the Indonesian press, pushing them towards self-censorship.Tempo has filed a police report regarding the incident.
This incident echoes similar attempts to intimidate journalists in the United States. For example, in 2018, CNN received a package containing white powder and a threatening message, leading to heightened security measures for media organizations. Such acts are not isolated incidents but part of a worrying trend of targeting journalists to stifle critical reporting.
Tempo has been critical of the Prabowo government’s policies,including a recently launched multibillion-dollar free school meal program. While the program aims to address malnutrition, Tempo’s reporting has raised questions about the program’s effectiveness and potential for corruption, underlining the importance of independent media oversight.
| Policy | Tempo’s Coverage | Potential Concerns |
|---|---|---|
| Free School Meal Program | Critical analysis of implementation and cost. | Effectiveness, potential for corruption, and long-term sustainability. |
| Government Economic Policies | Scrutiny of investment deals and their impact on local communities. | Transparency,environmental impact,and equitable distribution of benefits. |
A History of Silencing Dissent
Tempo’s history is intertwined with the struggle for press freedom in Indonesia. Founded in 1971, the magazine was banned twice under the authoritarian regime of Suharto, first for two months in 1982 and again in 1994. It was only after Suharto’s fall from power in 1998 that Tempo was relaunched, symbolizing the newfound freedoms in a post-authoritarian Indonesia. President Prabowo Subianto once served under Suharto, who was accused of using military figures to crack down on dissent.
Government Response and Next Steps
Indonesia’s presidential office expressed “regret” over the incident, stating that a robust media is needed in the country.
We do not know exactly who did it and why the incident happened … Indonesia remains committed to maintaining and protecting freedom of the press and freedom of expression,
said spokesperson Philips Vermonte via messaging app.
However, critics argue that words are not enough, and concrete action is needed to ensure the safety and independence of journalists. The national police have yet to respond to requests for comment, raising concerns about the level of priority given to the inquiry.
In the United States, organizations like the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press provide legal resources and advocacy for journalists facing threats and intimidation. Similar organizations in Indonesia play a critical role in defending press freedom and holding those who attack journalists accountable.
Implications for Indonesia and the Global Press Freedom Landscape
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by journalists worldwide,including in countries considered democratic. The use of intimidation tactics, coupled with accusations of foreign influence, represents a dangerous trend that needs to be addressed head-on.
The attack on Tempo could have a chilling effect on other media outlets in Indonesia, potentially leading to self-censorship and a reluctance to report critically on government policies. Such a development would undermine Indonesia’s democratic institutions and its standing on the global stage.
In the U.S., the First Amendment protects freedom of the press, but even here, journalists face increasing threats, both online and offline. The rhetoric used by some politicians,echoing claims of “fake news” and “enemies of the people,” contributes to a climate of hostility that can embolden those who seek to silence the media.
The delivery of a severed pig’s head to Tempo is not just an attack on one news outlet; it is indeed an attack on the very principles of freedom of expression and the public’s right to know. The international community must stand in solidarity with Tempo and other journalists in Indonesia and around the world who are working to hold power accountable.
Indonesia’s Stance on Press Freedom: An Interview with Dr. Anisa Rahman on the Tempo Intimidation Case
Archyde News: welcome, Dr. Rahman. Thank you for joining us today.The recent incident at Indonesian news outlet Tempo, where a pig’s head was delivered to their office, is deeply concerning. As an expert in Southeast Asian political dynamics, what is your initial reaction to this event?
Dr. Anisa Rahman: Thank you for having me. The intimidation of Tempo is a blatant attack on press freedom. It’s a clear message designed to silence critical voices, and it’s notably alarming given the context of increasing pressure on independent media in Indonesia. The symbolism, as well as the direct targeting of a journalist, is particularly alarming.
The Context of Press Freedom in Indonesia
Archyde News: The article mentions President Prabowo Subianto’s rhetoric about foreign influence. How does this fit into the broader picture of press freedom in Indonesia, a country that has often been considered a leader in Southeast Asia’s democratic landscape?
Dr. Rahman: Accusations of foreign influence are a common tactic used to delegitimize critical reporting. This is a hazardous path that undermines the public’s right to details. It is significant to remember Tempo’s history of standing up for press freedom, even under Suharto. This is essential to contextualize the attack on them. Indonesia, like most nations, is struggling to balance international expectations with domestic political pressures.
Impact on the Media and Society
Archyde News: Tempo has been critical of the government’s policies and has reported on potential concerns, like the free school meal program. How does this type of intimidation impact other media outlets and the public’s access to information?
Dr. rahman: The impact is chilling. Self-censorship becomes a real threat.When journalists feel unsafe, they might potentially be hesitant to report critically on sensitive issues, and ultimately, the public is not in a position to have a full and realistic portrait of the country.
The Government’s Response and International Implications
Archyde News: The Indonesian presidential office has expressed “regret.” Is this enough, and what concrete steps do you believe the government needs to take to restore trust and protect journalists?
Dr.Rahman: Regret is insufficient. There needs to be a thorough and obvious investigation into the incident, with the perpetrators brought to justice. More importantly, there must be stronger protections for journalists and a clear condemnation of these tactics from the highest levels of government. The international community must also hold Indonesia accountable and provide support for independent media outlets.
Looking Ahead
Archyde News: Given the history and the current climate, what are your predictions for the future of press freedom in Indonesia, and what can international organizations do to help?
Dr. Rahman: The situation is precarious. International organizations like the Commitee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and Reporters Without Borders play a crucial role in advocacy and offering support. Pressure from the international community is essential. Robust civil society involvement,and continued reporting on issues that affect Indonesian citizens can all play a role. What we need to see now is if Indonesia will be able to stand up and protect the freedoms it has fought for.
Archyde News: What is a key takeaway that you would like our readers to ponder regarding this event, and attacks on press freedom globally?
Dr. Rahman: A free press is a cornerstone of any democracy. When journalists are intimidated, democracy itself is under attack. It is vital to stand in solidarity with those who are being targeted and to defend the right to information, so that we can all better understand the communities we live in.
Archyde News: Dr. Rahman, thank you very much for this insightful discussion.
