Indonesian police in Jakarta have received multiple reports related to controversial statements made by Ferry Amsari, a public figure associated with the Food Swasembada initiative, according to local news outlets.
The reports stem from criticism Amsari directed at government food policy, which some observers have interpreted as an attempt to undermine official programs. One filing alleges that Amsari’s remarks were part of a broader scenario designed to corner the administration, a claim reported by Kompas.com and attributed to a minister who expressed suspicion about the timing and intent of the statements.
Separately, the Metropolitan Jakarta Police (Polda Metro Jaya) confirmed receiving two public reports concerning Amsari, as noted by Tribrata News. CNN Indonesia as well reported that Amsari was formally named in a complaint linked to his criticism of the Swasembada food self-sufficiency program.
LBH Tani Nusantara, a farmers’ legal advocacy group, filed its own report with the same police unit, according to SINDOnews Nasional. The organization said the action was taken in response to Amsari’s public comments, which they viewed as harmful to agricultural interests and national food policy.
The developments come amid heightened scrutiny of public discourse surrounding Indonesia’s food security strategies. Although no arrests or formal charges have been announced, the police have increased monitoring of related activities, including a peaceful farmers’ march dubbed “Tani Merdeka,” which was escorted by female officers from Polda Metro Jaya to ensure orderly conduct, as reported by detikNews.
Legal experts note that while criticism of government policy is protected under Indonesia’s freedom of expression laws, complaints can still prompt police investigations if authorities determine statements may incite unrest or spread misinformation. The outcome of the reports remains pending.