Pollster Criticizes Jokowi's Gathering with Youtuber, Influencer

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Executive director of pollster Parameter Politik Indonesia, Adi Prayitno, presumes the gathering of public figures and Youtubers at the Presidential Palace by President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo as the government’s desperate attempt to disseminate the importance of COVID-19 health protocols. 

“It seems the government is running out of ideas to disseminate ways to face the coronavirus pandemic. [I think] that is why they invited celebrities and Youtubers for input,” said Prayitno to Tempo on Wednesday, July 15. 

The pollster’s executive personally considers the move as an acceptable strategy by any form of a government institution. However, he argues that it abolishes the actual problems happening in the field which goes down to people’s greater fear of losing income rather than the fear of contracting COVID-19.

Adi Prayitno also questions the relevance of the celebrities and Youtubers that were invited. He believes they do not represent the people who are facing the pandemic. 

“The life burden they face is different from what the people are facing. People battle a bleak life each and every day,” said Adi, who believes the public dissemination of COVID-19 health protocols must be managed by the government. 

Read: Jokowi Invites Youtubers, Artists to Campaign for COVID Protocols

EGI ADYATAMA