ADA-ADA AJA! GIBRAN DIKECAM. BUKA MTQ NASIONAL, TAPI TOLAK BERI SAMBUTAN. APA LUPA CONTEKAN?

Summary

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming faced criticism after attending the MTQ event in Palangkaraya on November 4, 2024, where he unexpectedly skipped delivering a speech and instead performed a traditional drum ceremony before leaving. His actions sparked online backlash, with netizens questioning his preparedness and responsibility. This incident highlights concerns about Gibran's communication style and his reluctance to engage in formal speeches or interviews. Critics argue that his behavior, unlike previous vice presidents, may reflect a shift in how he chooses to engage with the public and media, leaving many disappointed by his lack of involvement at such a significant event.

Takeaways

• 😀 Gibran Rakabuming Raka, the Vice President of Indonesia, faced criticism after attending the MTQ (Quran Recitation Contest) in Palangkaraya, Central Kalimantan, without giving a speech as expected.
• 😀 Despite the event's official agenda indicating that Gibran was supposed to deliver a speech, he only played a traditional percussion instrument and then left the venue.
• 😀 The event was widely discussed on social media, with some netizens mocking Gibran for not fulfilling his expected role as a dignitary at the ceremony.
• 😀 The Governor of Central Kalimantan, Sugianto Sabran, and the Chairman of the Korpri (Civil Servants Corps) National Association, Zudan Arif Fakrullah, had both requested a speech from the Vice President, which Gibran did not give.
• 😀 The incident raised questions about whether there was a communication breakdown between Gibran’s team and the event organizers or if it was a deliberate choice not to deliver a speech.
• 😀 Gibran’s behavior contrasted with that of previous Indonesian Vice Presidents, who typically gave speeches or directions during such events.
• 😀 In earlier events, including the 2022 Korpri MTQ, speeches from high-ranking officials like the Minister of Home Affairs were a regular part of the ceremony, setting a precedent that was not followed by Gibran.
• 😀 There are growing concerns among journalists covering Gibran's public appearances, as he is often seen avoiding interviews or giving very brief answers to questions.
• 😀 Gibran's preferred approach seems to involve informal engagements, such as visiting markets or overseeing projects, rather than participating in traditional ceremonial duties like giving speeches.
• 😀 The lack of a speech at the MTQ has sparked criticism regarding the cost and expectations of high-level officials’ participation in national events, especially when the Vice President’s role is limited to symbolic actions like inaugurations or ceremonial gestures.

Q & A

Why did Gibran Rakabuming Raka receive criticism at the MTQ event in Palangkaraya?

Gibran faced criticism because he did not deliver a speech or formal remarks during the opening of the national Quran recitation competition (MTQ) in Palangkaraya, despite requests from the event organizers, including the Governor of Central Kalimantan and the national chairman of Korpri.

What were the specific expectations for Gibran at the MTQ event?

The organizers, including the Governor and Korpri’s national chairman, had formally requested Gibran to give a speech or provide guidance. This was in line with the expectations for high-ranking officials to address the public at national events.

What did Gibran do instead of giving a speech at the event?

Instead of delivering a speech, Gibran participated in the ceremonial act of drumming, a traditional activity associated with the local Dayak culture, and then left the event without engaging in further public interaction.

How did the media and public respond to Gibran's behavior at the event?

The media and public expressed disappointment and mockery. Some netizens speculated that Gibran either forgot his speech or intentionally avoided it. The lack of a formal address led to questions about his commitment to his role as Vice President.

Why did some people suggest that Gibran might have forgotten his speech?

Some speculated that Gibran might have forgotten his speech due to his failure to deliver one, despite being scheduled to do so. However, the transcript also suggests that he was not explicitly asked to give a speech, only to perform the ceremonial duties.

What was the usual protocol at such events before Gibran's vice presidency?

Before Gibran's tenure as Vice President, it was standard for high-ranking officials, including the President and Vice President, to deliver speeches at national events like MTQ, offering guidance or addressing important issues, which was not observed in this case.

How does Gibran’s approach to public appearances compare to his predecessors?

Unlike his predecessors, particularly President Jokowi, who frequently gives speeches at public events, Gibran’s approach has been more subdued, with fewer public addresses and more focus on ceremonial duties or site visits without offering detailed remarks.

What role do speeches and public remarks play for high-ranking officials like the Vice President in Indonesia?

Speeches and public remarks by high-ranking officials are important for communicating government policies, building rapport with the public, and demonstrating leadership. They are an opportunity for officials to engage with citizens and reinforce government initiatives.

What are some of the public’s expectations for Gibran as Vice President?

The public expects Gibran to be more communicative and engaging in his role, especially at national events, where officials are expected to provide insights and speeches that contribute to national discussions. His reluctance to speak has drawn concern from both the media and citizens.

How has Gibran’s relationship with the press been described in the transcript?

Gibran’s relationship with the press has been characterized as distant. He has been described as avoiding direct interactions with journalists and providing minimal responses when questioned, which has frustrated reporters who are accustomed to receiving more detailed statements from high-ranking officials.