Indonesian Law Minister Provides Clarification on Officials' WhatsApp Sticker Use

Guidelines for Digital Communication

In response to concerns about digital communication etiquette among public officials, Indonesian Minister of Law, Supratman Andi Agtas, has provided clarification regarding the use of WhatsApp stickers. According to Supratman, officials are permitted to use stickers in their digital communications as long as they adhere to existing legal boundaries.

Legal Boundaries and Digital Conduct

The Minister emphasized that while using 'like' or 'thumb up' stickers is generally acceptable, especially when communicating with higher-ranking officials like the President, there are clear limitations regarding inappropriate content. Supratman stressed that any content deemed 'not decent' would violate the boundaries set by the Criminal Code (KUHP).

Context of New Criminal Code Implementation

This clarification comes as Indonesia implements its new Criminal Code, which introduces various legal updates affecting both public and private spheres. The Minister's statement aims to guide public officials in navigating their digital communications within the new legal framework.

Implications for Public Officials

The guidance suggests that while there is room for informal digital communication among officials, maintaining professional standards remains crucial. The challenge lies in interpreting what constitutes 'inappropriate' content in the context of rapidly evolving digital communication norms.