Former UGM Student Executive Board (BEM) Chairperson Tiyo Ardianto has reported a series of intimidation incidents following his public criticism of government policies, including the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, education budget cuts, and other policies of the Prabowo administration.
According to publicly reported information, Tiyo has faced restrictions on his participation in public forums, including being prevented from speaking at an event at Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES) in May 2026. On 13 June 2026, he also reported discovering a magnetic device attached to his vehicle after receiving a notification indicating the presence of an unknown nearby device. Tiyo further stated that he had previously been followed by unidentified individuals while attending public events.
The latest development involves a police complaint filed against him by lawyer Firdaus Oiwobo, alleging incitement and defamation related to his criticism of the government’s MBG programme and the Nutritional Service Fulfilment Unit (SPPG).
The Indonesian Caucus for Academic Freedom (KIKA) condemned the reported incidents and argued that the combination of surveillance allegations, restrictions on public participation, and legal action against a government critic raises concerns regarding academic freedom, freedom of expression, and the safety of students and academics engaging in public debate.
The case has generated concern among civil society and academic actors because it may indicate a broader pattern of intimidation targeting individuals who publicly scrutinise government policies. If such practices continue, they could contribute to a chilling effect on public participation, academic freedom, and freedom of expression in Indonesia.