A 100-day reflection on civil decency, Indonesian style
Yo! What’s up, my fellow Indonesians? It’s been 100 days since our new leaders stepped onto the stage, and the vibe is definitely changing. We’re building a Nusantara 2.0 – a nation where we can all shine bright like a diamond (with a healthy dose of “sopan santun,” of course). Okay, let’s fire up this blog post with a focus on civil decency, some LOLs, and a sprinkle of BTS wisdom for good measure!
But let’s be real, sometimes things get a little heated, especially in the world of politics. People start throwing shade, voices get raised, and before you know it, it’s a full-on “ndasmu” battle royale – bruhaha! Not cool, guys. Not cool.
So, how do we turn down the heat and turn up the civility? How do we become a nation of leaders and citizens who can disagree respectfully and work together towards a brighter future? Well, my friends, let’s take a page from the BTS playbook.
BTS: The Kings of “Sopan Santun”
Think about it. BTS – these guys are global superstars, rolling in dough, and oozing creativity. But they’re also known for their impeccable manners, their humility, and their genuine respect for others. They’re living proof that you can be a badass and still be a decent human being.
Remember that time when RM accidentally bumped into someone backstage? He immediately apologized profusely, even though he was the one who got hurt. Or how about when Suga bowed deeply to a cleaning lady, showing his appreciation for her hard work? These guys get it. They understand that true success isn’t just about talent or fame, it’s about treating everyone with kindness and respect.
“Sopan Santun”: The Indonesian Way
Now, we Indonesians have our own version of “sopan santun” – those unwritten rules of etiquette that have been passed down through generations. It’s about showing respect for elders, using polite language, and being mindful of others’ feelings. It’s about creating a harmonious and respectful environment where everyone feels valued.
But sometimes, in the heat of the moment, we forget our “sopan santun.” We let our emotions get the best of us, and we say or do things that we later regret. We might even unleash a fiery “ndasmu” comment or two – bruhaha! (Okay, maybe just me.)
The Power of Civil Decency
So, why is civil decency so important, especially for our leaders? Well, for starters, it builds trust. When our leaders treat each other and the public with respect, it creates an environment where we feel heard and valued. It makes us more likely to believe in them and support their vision.
Secondly, civil decency promotes collaboration. When we can disagree respectfully and engage in constructive dialogue, we’re more likely to find solutions that benefit everyone. We can tap into the diverse perspectives and talents of our people and work together to build a stronger nation.
And finally, civil decency sets an example for the rest of society. When our leaders model respectful behavior, it inspires us to do the same. It creates a ripple effect that can transform our culture and make Indonesia a more harmonious and inclusive place for all.
Challenges and Solutions
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “But with all the political drama and social media craziness, how can we possibly maintain civil decency?” It’s a valid concern, my friends. But it’s not impossible.
We need to be mindful of the challenges. Political polarization can make it tempting to demonize those who disagree with us. Social media can amplify negativity and create echo chambers where we only hear voices that reinforce our own biases. And power dynamics can sometimes lead to abuses of authority and disrespectful behavior.
But we can overcome these challenges. We can start by being more aware of our own biases and triggers. We can make a conscious effort to listen to different perspectives, even those we don’t agree with. We can use social media responsibly and promote constructive dialogue. And we can hold our leaders accountable for their behavior, demanding that they uphold the highest standards of civil decency.

Nusantara 2.0: A Nation of “Sopan Santun” Superstars
So, let’s make a pact, my fellow Indonesians. Let’s be like BTS – talented, creative, and successful, but also kind, compassionate, and respectful. Let’s embrace our “sopan santun” heritage and show the world that Indonesia is a nation of leaders and citizens who can disagree without being disagreeable.
Let’s build a Nusantara 2.0 where everyone feels valued, respected, and heard. A nation where we can all shine bright like a diamond, while still maintaining our “sopan santun” swag. Ndasmu! Mic drop. Peace out.

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