Coordinating Minister for Legal, Human Rights, Immigration, and Correctional Affairs, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, has addressed the recent incidents involving the forced dissolution of public screenings of the documentary film “Pesta Babi” across several regions in Indonesia.
Yusril clarified that there has been no centralized directive from the government or security forces to disband these screenings. He further emphasized that the response to the documentary has not been uniform across all academic institutions.
“At the University of Mataram and UIN Mataram in Lombok, the screenings were halted due to procedural and administrative issues. Conversely, at other campuses in Bandung and Sukabumi, the events proceeded without any interference,” Yusril stated on Thursday (14/5), as quoted by Antara.
Addressing the content of the documentary, Yusril noted that the criticisms presented in the film are valid expressions of opinion. However, he expressed concern regarding the film’s title, describing it as potentially provocative, and urged the public to remain level-headed rather than reacting impulsively to the branding of the film.
“Let the public watch the film, and afterward, encourage open discussions and debates. This way, the public develops a critical perspective, where diverse pros and cons can be expressed,” he added.
Beyond the film controversy, Yusril also addressed narratives labeling the National Strategic Project (PSN) in South Papua as a form of “modern colonialism.” He firmly rejected this characterization, stressing that Papua is an integral part of the Republic of Indonesia.
“Land development initiatives like this are also taking place in Kalimantan and other islands, all as part of our integral territory,” he explained.
Regarding the artistic intent behind the work, Yusril expressed his hope that the screenwriter, director, and producers of “Pesta Babi” would clarify the significance of the title, given its potential for multiple interpretations. He emphasized the need for a balanced dynamic between state and society, stating, “The government cannot simply hide behind authority and power, but at the same time, artists cannot remain silent and hide behind the veil of freedom of expression alone.”
The documentary “Pesta Babi,” directed by Dandhy Laksono and Cypri Dale, is a 95-minute film that highlights the struggles of indigenous communities—including the Marind, Awyu, Yei, and Muyu tribes. The film documents their loss of ancestral land and traditional living spaces due to the expansion of sugarcane plantations, palm oil estates, and large-scale food estate projects.
The issue gained significant public attention following reports of attempts to forcibly disband screenings at various universities, with incidents recorded in regions ranging from Lombok to Ternate.
Summary
Coordinating Minister for Legal, Human Rights, Immigration, and Correctional Affairs, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, has confirmed that the government did not issue any directives to disrupt screenings of the documentary “Pesta Babi.” He clarified that instances where screenings were halted, such as in Lombok, resulted from local administrative or procedural issues rather than a nationwide crackdown. Other regions, including Bandung and Sukabumi, successfully hosted the events without interference.
Yusril acknowledged the film’s criticisms as a valid expression of opinion while encouraging the public to engage in open, critical debate rather than reacting impulsively to the film’s provocative title. The documentary, directed by Dandhy Laksono and Cypri Dale, explores the struggles of indigenous communities in South Papua facing land displacement due to industrial expansion. Furthermore, Yusril dismissed claims that the National Strategic Project in the region constitutes “modern colonialism,” reiterating that such developments are part of national territory.