Pandji Pragiwaksono's Reaction Defended by Vice President Gibran Regarding 'Mens Rea'

"Oh yes, I think Vice President Gibran is an example of how to appreciate a joke, how to process a joke well. That a joke does not need to be taken too seriously and does not need to create problems," said Pandji Pragiwaksono when met at Polda Metro Jaya.

Pandji believes that what Gibran did is a positive indication for the climate of democracy and freedom of expression in Indonesia, especially in the world of comedy. He hopes that the public can be wiser in distinguishing between stage jokes and personal attacks or blasphemy.

Regarding the ongoing legal process, Pandji expressed his readiness to follow the existing procedures. However, he also opened the door for dialogue if there are parties who feel offended and want to resolve the issue through Restorative Justice.

"I just want to go through the process. If there is an invitation for dialogue, I will gladly participate. I always open up space for dialogue and historically, there is too much evidence showing that in cases of misunderstanding or discrepancies in the interpretation of my artwork, I am always willing to engage in dialogue," he asserted.

Pandji also mentioned on Denny Sumargo's YouTube channel that he was reported for offending the physical appearance of Indonesia's Vice President, Gibran Rakabuming Raka. However, Gibran's defense seemed to dismiss the notion that the Vice President was offended by the material.

Pandji emphasized that his main intention as a comedian is to entertain the Indonesian people, not to hurt or insult anyone. He believes that comedy is something that is very much needed in the current state of society.

Pandji assured his fellow comedians that what happened to him should not limit the freedom of expression of comedians. According to him, the position of a stand-up comedian on stage is as an entertainer who presents a conceptual performance.