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Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has directed his administration to develop legislation aimed at combating disinformation and foreign propaganda following a recent Cabinet retreat at his private residence in Hambalang, Bogor.
During the meeting on January 6, 2026, Prabowo began by evaluating the Red and White Cabinet’s performance before pivoting to what he characterized as a pressing threat to national stability: the spread of disinformation through media channels. To illustrate his concerns, the President had organizers play a video showcasing India’s approach to fighting falsehoods in both traditional and social media platforms, presenting it as a model for establishing national stability.
Following this presentation, Prabowo issued direct instructions to Coordinating Minister for Legal, Human Rights, Immigration, and Correctional Affairs Yusril Ihza Mahendra and Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas. The President tasked them with conducting a comprehensive study to draft regulations specifically targeting disinformation and foreign propaganda. Additionally, he requested they examine similar regulatory frameworks already implemented in other countries.
“The President instructed me and the Law Minister,” confirmed Yusril, the former General Chair of the Crescent Star Party (PBB), speaking to reporters at the House of Representatives complex in Senayan, Jakarta, on January 21, 2026. The directive’s authenticity was corroborated by two additional Cabinet members who attended the Hambalang retreat, both confirming that the initiative originated directly from President Prabowo.
The administration moved quickly following the meeting. Just one week later, an academic paper outlining the proposed legislation began circulating publicly. The 69-page document, bearing the official logo of the Law Ministry, was titled “Draft Law on the Prevention of Disinformation and Foreign Propaganda.”
This legislative push comes amid growing global concerns about the impact of misinformation on political stability and social cohesion. Many countries have implemented or are considering similar regulations, though such efforts often spark debate about potential impacts on freedom of expression and press freedoms.
Indonesia, with its diverse media landscape and high social media penetration, has previously grappled with waves of misinformation during election periods and times of social tension. The country’s digital ecosystem has expanded rapidly over the past decade, with more than 170 million Indonesians now active on various social media platforms.
Political analysts note that the timing of this initiative is significant, coming during Prabowo’s early tenure as president. The former general, who assumed office following a contentious election, has emphasized national unity and stability as cornerstones of his administration.
Critics, including press freedom advocates and digital rights organizations, have expressed concerns about the potential scope and implementation of such legislation. They warn that broadly defined prohibitions against “disinformation” could potentially be used to silence legitimate criticism or opposition voices. Meanwhile, supporters argue that safeguarding the information ecosystem from deliberate manipulation, particularly by foreign interests, represents a legitimate national security concern.
The draft legislation is expected to undergo further review and possible revisions before being formally submitted to the House of Representatives for deliberation. The specifics of enforcement mechanisms, penalties for violations, and the precise definitions of key terms like “disinformation” and “foreign propaganda” will likely be central to upcoming parliamentary debates.
As this regulatory framework takes shape, it may significantly impact Indonesia’s media environment, online discourse, and the broader relationship between the government, press, and digital platforms operating in Southeast Asia’s largest economy.
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13 Comments
The spread of disinformation and foreign propaganda is a growing global concern, so it’s not surprising that Indonesia is taking steps to address it. However, the approach must be carefully balanced to protect fundamental rights and freedoms.
Agreed. A heavy-handed approach could backfire and undermine public trust. Striking the right balance will be crucial for the success of this initiative.
Regulating the spread of foreign propaganda is a complex challenge that many countries are grappling with. It will be important to closely monitor how Indonesia’s approach unfolds and whether it achieves the desired results without infringing on civil liberties.
Agreed. Balancing national security and individual freedoms is always a delicate act. Transparency and oversight will be crucial in ensuring the new regulations are applied fairly and effectively.
The Indonesian government’s focus on combating disinformation and foreign propaganda is understandable, given the potential risks to national stability. It will be interesting to see what regulatory framework they develop, and how it balances free speech with national security concerns.
I’m curious to learn more about President Prabowo Subianto’s background and motivations behind this proposed legislation. Addressing the spread of false information is important, but the approach needs to be carefully considered to avoid overreach or misuse.
Good point. The origins and affiliations of political leaders can often provide useful context when analyzing their policy decisions. A nuanced, balanced approach will be key.
I’m intrigued by the President’s interest in India’s approach to fighting falsehoods. Given the varying cultural and political landscapes, it will be important for Indonesia to develop a tailored solution that addresses its unique challenges.
Tackling foreign interference and the spread of false information is a worthy goal, but the details of this legislation will be crucial. I hope the Indonesian government remains committed to transparency and inclusive policymaking throughout the process.
This is a timely issue that many countries are grappling with. I’ll be following the development of Indonesia’s foreign propaganda bill with great interest, as it could set an important precedent for the region.
This is an interesting development in Indonesia’s efforts to tackle disinformation. I wonder how the proposed regulations will be implemented and enforced, and what safeguards will be in place to protect legitimate free speech.
While the goal of combating disinformation is admirable, the details of this legislation will be crucial. I hope the Indonesian government engages in a robust public consultation process to gather input from diverse stakeholders.
Absolutely. Transparency and inclusive policymaking will be essential to ensure the new regulations are effective and widely accepted.