Indonesian Celebrity Sparks Outrage Over Jab at Iced Tea Seller
A video of Indonesian celebrity preacher and presidential envoy, Gus Miftah, making light of an iced tea vendor has ignited a firestorm of criticism online, prompting reflections on the lack of positive role models in the country.
The incident, captured on video, shows Miftah seated on a stage seemingly mocking the vendor selling iced tea. He inquires about the availability of the drink, followed by a disparaging remark: "Is your iced tea okay? (Do you still have a lot of iced tea?) Still? Yo kono didol stupid (Yes, it’s sold stupidly)."
Acclaimed Indonesian director Joko Anwar weighed in on the controversy, expressing disappointment and labeling the incident as emblematic of a broader societal issue.
"There is a lack of role models in Indonesia. Many leaders, defenders, educators, who should set good examples, instead criticize others," he lamented on his X (formerly Twitter) account on December 4, 2024. Anwar further criticized the normalization of Miftah’s behavior by his supporters.
“They said then, that’s how he’s joking. It’s crazy that people like this can still have a place of honor in this country,” he added.
Social media activist Zulfikar Akbar also condemned Miftah’s actions, calling attention to the disrespect shown towards the working-class vendor.
The incident has sparked a wider conversation in Indonesia about the need for accountability and respect towards all members of society, regardless of their social standing. It has also fueled debates about the responsibility of public figures to set a positive example and the consequences of their actions.
The controversy has resonated beyond Indonesia’s borders, with international observers drawing parallels to similar instances of elitism and disregard for ordinary people in other parts of the world.
This episode serves as a stark reminder that even those in positions of power and influence are not exempt from scrutiny and are expected to uphold basic standards of decency and respect.
