Ferry Irwandi Says the Masterminds Behind the Riots in Indonesia Can Be Easily Tracked
Malaka Project CEO Ferry Irwandi has stated that identifying the masterminds behind the riots could actually be easily achieved if authorities seriously utilized data analysis technology and digital footprints on social media.
Regarding the recent unrest, he believes that data analytics, scraping, and open source intelligence (OSINT) methods could be a gateway to tracing the initial source of the spread of rumors that sparked anarchistic mass action.
“In a matter of minutes, we can find out where the August 25 issue originated, who used the hashtag ‘disband the House of Representatives’ (DPR), their affiliation, who they support, and who they attack. It’s really simple,” said the social media activist in the “People Speak Out” dialogue on iNews on Tuesday (September 2, 2025).
“If everyone in this room wanted to check the hashtag themselves on TikTok, Instagram, or Twitter/X, they would find it in less than five minutes. It’s not difficult; even kids these days are smarter at finding it,” he added.
Ferry also reminded that the search results should be treated as initial material in the investigation process, not a final conclusion. “That doesn’t mean those accounts are definitely the perpetrators. But they can be a starting point for investigation. That’s how intelligence should work, not just mentioning big names without basis,” he said.
“If the government really wants to find the masterminds, the basis must be clear, not just assumptions or flowery words. Everything can be seen on social media: who’s behind it, who’s posting it; it’s all open,” he concluded.
