After Referring to 'Common People', President Spokesperson Adita Irawati Promises to Be More Careful in Speaking

Kapanlagi.com - An interesting statement from the Palace spokesperson, Adita Irawati, who used the term "common people" in response to the controversy with Gus Miftah, has caught public attention. The expression sparked heated debates on social media and in public spaces, leading Adita to feel the need to apologize publicly.

This controversy began when Adita responded to the public's reaction to Gus Miftah's statement. However, the choice of words "common people" was deemed insensitive and gave a discriminatory impression. In her clarification posted on the official Instagram @pco.ri on Thursday (6/12/2024), Adita stated, "I apologize if my statement offended the public."

Now, Adita is committed to being more careful in choosing her words when speaking in public. She hopes this incident serves as a valuable lesson for all parties, especially for those who play important roles in communication within the government environment.

1. The Beginning of the Controversy over the Term 'Common People'

The controversy erupted after Adita Irawati, the Palace spokesperson, responded to public criticism regarding the controversy involving Gus Miftah. In her interview, Adita used the term "common people," which in the Great Dictionary of the Indonesian Language (KBBI) means ordinary people or the lower class of society.

This use of the term immediately triggered a wave of negative reactions from various parties, who deemed the statement unwise and condescending. Social media was flooded with public comments expressing disappointment over the choice of words that were considered inappropriate in the context of official communication.

2. Clarification and Apology from Adita Irawati

After receiving sharp criticism from the public, Adita Irawati promptly provided a soothing clarification. In a video shared by various media, she expressed her apologies for the unintentional choice of inappropriate words.

"I did not mean to offend anyone, and I promise to be more careful in delivering statements in the future," Adita stated firmly.

She emphasized that her statement was solely intended to explain the situation without the intention of belittling any group of society. This apology is hoped to ease the tensions that have arisen within the community.

3. Impact and Public Response

Although an apology has been made, doubts still haunt the public regarding the extent of sensitivity of public officials in choosing their words.

Many figures have voiced the need for the government to strengthen communication training for spokespersons and high-ranking officials, with one netizen emphasizing, "An apology alone is not enough, considering he is a religious figure and a government official; if this is left unchecked, thousands of worse officials will emerge."

On the other hand, some also appreciate Adita's swift action in bravely admitting mistakes and publicly apologizing, seeing this as a form of good faith and responsibility as a public official.

"The presidential communication office is still learning public communication," wrote another netizen in the comments section of Instagram @pco.ri, adding color to this debate.

4. What is meant by the term 'common people'?

In the Great Dictionary of the Indonesian Language (KBBI), the term "common people" describes the ordinary society or lower class.

However, unfortunately, this term is often wrapped in a negative nuance in its usage, as if it indicates a stigma that is less favorable for those who belong to that category.

5. Why did Adita Irawati's statement trigger controversy?

The term "common people" is now facing criticism for being considered insensitive and tends to be derogatory, especially when pronounced in an official context by public officials.

6. What steps did Adita Irawati take after facing criticism?

Adita has sincerely expressed her apology publicly, while committing to be more careful in choosing words in every upcoming public statement.

She is determined to learn from this experience and ensure that every statement she makes reflects greater caution and understanding.

7. What is the public's response to Adita Irawati's apology?

Some members of the public praised her bravery in apologizing, but on the other hand, this incident serves as a valuable lesson reminding officials to be more sensitive in their use of language.

(kpl/rmt)