Monkey emoji sparks clash between UGM BEM chair and BGN deputy
Thekabarnews.com—A public conversation between Gadjah Mada University (UGM) Student Executive Board (BEM) Chair Tiyo Ardianto and the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) Deputy Head, Irjen Pol. Sony...
Thekabarnews.com—A public conversation between Gadjah Mada University (UGM) Student Executive Board (BEM) Chair Tiyo Ardianto and the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) Deputy Head, Irjen Pol. Sony Sonjaya has become very popular. It has also caused a lot of online debate.
The argument started in the comments on an Instagram post with monkey emojis. The verified account @sonysonjayabd, which is the official account of the BGN deputy, responded to criticism by talking about the successes of the national nutrition fulfillment program.
He said that the program had fed 60 million toddlers, pregnant and breastfeeding moms, and pupils. In addition, he stated that it had also hired more than a million workers. It had taken in agricultural, plantation, fishery, and animal products as well.
But the account also sent back three monkey emojis in the same conversation. The usage of emojis instantly got people talking on social media. Many argued about the tone and meaning of the message.
Tiyo Ardianto later posted a statement called “Monkey Emoji.” In the statement, he said that officials should respond to criticism based on concern for the nation with maturity. They should do so instead of using symbols that people could consider insulting.
“When a monkey emoji is used to respond to criticism that comes from love for the country, it is not the critic’s dignity that is at stake, but the maturity of those in authority to accept different perspectives without feeling intimidated,” Tiyo said.
Tiyo thought more about the meaning of the symbols, stressing the importance of moral leadership and accountability in public debate.
The exchange has brought up again the need for public authorities to talk about the ethics of digital communication. It has also raised questions about how symbols can be sensitive in online spaces. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of transparency in the implementation of national nutrition programs.
The BGN hasn’t yet given any more information about the emoji dispute. The case highlights how the relationship between student activists and government officials is changing in the digital age.
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