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The Raising of the One Piece Flag: Criticism That Needs to Be Answered with Good Performance

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Gerry Katon Mahendra, a lecturer in Public Administration at Universitas ‘Aisyiyah (Unisa) Yogyakarta, described the phenomenon of flying the One Piece flag as an expression of public protest against the government. The government should view this phenomenon as motivation; the public needs improvements to the current conditions.

“It is an interesting phenomenon (the flying of the One Piece flag). From a public administration perspective, this phenomenon is a form of public protest related to the state of governance, which is considered to be falling short of public expectations. For example, it relates to tax policies, employment, and the purchasing power of the people, which are considered to be falling short of expectations,” said Gerry on Saturday (9/8/2025).

Gerry said that the government should see this as motivation, that the public needs change or improvement from the current conditions. “This non-state flag can be interpreted as a symbol of criticism that should be responded to with better performance,” said Gerry.

He said that flying this flag is not a violation as long as it does not violate any laws, is not displayed alongside state symbols, and is not flown higher than or alongside the red and white flag. “I believe that this is part of the public’s expression of criticism and hope for better conditions,” said Gerry.

Gerry said that Law No. 24 of 2009 explains that the flying of non-state symbols such as organizational flags or cultural symbols must comply with regulations that prioritize the position of the Red and White Flag in the main position, allow foreign flags only in a diplomatic context, and prohibit separatist symbols that could disrupt the unity of the nation. It is clearly explained that the dignity of the National Flag must not be degraded, so the flying of symbolic flags, such as those that have gone viral recently, must refer back to the existing provisions.

“If they are flown alone in permitted spaces, it can certainly be interpreted as not violating the law,” said Gerry.

Gerry suggested that the government needs to apply a dialogical, persuasive, and participatory approach that provides space for the creative expression of the younger generation, while still instilling national values through education, cultural collaboration, and public role models. “If it is related to less than ideal conditions in the country, the government must not forget to remain open to criticism and to improve the quality of its performance,” said Gerry.

Gerry observed that to date, the central government and several local governments have not raised any issues, as long as the rules are not violated. However, at the technical level in the field, he saw several reports related to orders to remove certain images or symbols.

“The government should strive to be more consistent in its policies, not repressive, and prioritize an open and communicative approach towards the public. This effort is considered to be more effective in reducing polarization and increasing public awareness. Instead of prioritizing a harsh prohibition approach,” he said.

He also mentioned that young people today, who are part of Gen Z, are in a phase of growth where they are learning to understand various situations, including the current situation in the country. With Gen Z known for being creative, out of the box, and quick-thinking, it is very likely that the way they express their feelings will be different from previous generations, making cultural shifts inevitable.

“As long as it does not violate norms and rules, I believe it is acceptable. This is relevant to the saying that everyone has their time, and perhaps now is the time for Gen Z to express themselves in their own way. The task of the previous generation is to guide and direct them so that they do not go too far,” said Gerry.

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Leptospirosis Outbreak: Unisa Yogyakarta Faculty of Medicine Lecturer Provides Tips on Prevention and Treatment

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Leptospirosis cases in the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY) have been a concern recently. Dr. Henny Cloridina, M.H., a lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas ‘Aisyiyah (Unisa) Yogyakarta, provided advice on what the community can do to prevent Leptospirosis and how to treat it if infected.

According to data from the DIY Health Department, there have been 282 cases of Leptospirosis recorded up to July 2025. These cases are spread across several regencies/cities in DIY. Bantul Regency recorded 165 cases, followed by Sleman Regency with 53 cases, Kulonprogo Regency with 32 cases, Yogyakarta City with 21 cases, and Gunungkidul Regency with 11 cases.

Dina explained that Leptospirosis, or rat urine disease, is a contagious infectious disease caused by the Leptospira sp. bacterium, which is a Gram-negative bacterium of the Spirochaeta group. This disease is transmitted through intermediate animals (reservoirs) such as rats, dogs, pigs, cows, and goats. “Rats are the primary reservoir for this disease, and the Leptospira sp. bacteria are stored in the renal tubules of rats and excreted through urine,” explained Dina on Wednesday (August 6, 2025).

At least four factors influence Leptospirosis. First, environmental factors (rainfall, poor sanitation, rat population density). Second, individual factors (presence of wounds, immune system strength, high-risk occupations). Third, socio-economic factors (slum settlements, lack of knowledge). Fourth, behavioral factors (failure to use personal protective equipment, poor hygiene practices).

Dina revealed that the symptoms of leptospirosis vary and are similar to other infectious diseases such as dengue fever, malaria, and acute fever. A characteristic feature of Leptospirosis is that it is biphasic, meaning that there is a period when symptoms appear and are felt by the patient, but then the patient appears healthy with no symptoms. If an infection occurs, symptoms that can be felt include chills, coughing, diarrhea, sudden headaches, high fever, muscle pain, especially in the calves, and loss of appetite.

“Severe muscle pain in the calves is often a clear sign of infection with Leptospira sp. Jaundice or yellowing of the body’s mucous membranes (skin, eyes) is a condition that indicates severe leptospirosis (known as Weil’s disease),” explained Dina.

Prevention and Management

Dina shared advice with the public on preventing Leptospirosis. First, maintain environmental cleanliness by regularly cleaning up trash, avoiding piles of discarded items, and ensuring drainage systems are not blocked to prevent waterlogging. Second, maintain personal hygiene by washing hands with soap, wearing necessary protective gear, and avoiding playing in standing water.

“Third, control the rat population by covering food on the table and setting rat traps. Fourth, recognize the symptoms of leptospirosis so that you can be alert and take appropriate action if the symptoms become urgent,” said Dina.

Dina said that if you have leptospirosis, you should immediately see a doctor if you have taken fever medication but your fever has not gone down or you have been sick for a maximum of 3 days. Second, drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration due to fever, and get adequate rest.

“Take medication as prescribed by your doctor. Get laboratory tests as recommended by your doctor. Recognize the warning signs of Leptospirosis, such as yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes, reduced urine output (less than 5 times per day), and severe muscle pain in the calves or back,” explained Dina.

Dina mentioned that the Faculty of Medicine at Unisa Yogyakarta is also attempting to play a role in addressing Leptospirosis. “If necessary, conduct awareness campaigns regarding Leptospirosis. Provide healthcare personnel support for required community service examinations,” said Dina.

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The Media Team of the Muhammadiyah Research and Development Agency Conducts a Comparative Study at UNISA Yogyakarta, Highlighting Unique Public Relations Management

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The Public Relations and Protocol Bureau (BHP) of Universitas `Aisyiyah (Unisa) Yogyakarta received a comparative study visit from the media team of the Higher Education Research and Development Council (Diktilitbang) of the Central Leadership (PP) of Muhammadiyah. The meeting took place in the 7th-floor meeting room of the Siti Moendjijah Building on Tuesday (August 5, 2025), and focused on the exchange of knowledge related to digital communication strategies and media management.

“We warmly welcome our colleagues to share public relations activities, particularly those related to website and social media management,” said Sinta Maharani, M.I.Kom., Head of the BHP at Unisa Yogyakarta.

Sinta opened up a wide-ranging discussion, inviting colleagues from the Media Team of the Diktilitbang PP Muhammadiyah to share experiences in media management that have been implemented by the Public Relations Office of Unisa Yogyakarta.

Representative from the Media Team of the Diktilitbang PP Muhammadiyah Council, Aprilia Sazira Sari, S.I.Kom., M.Sc, explained the reason for choosing Unisa Yogyakarta as the destination for the comparative study. “We did not come here merely for a social visit; we had previously observed and analyzed the media managed by the Unisa Yogyakarta Public Relations Office. We see that Unisa’s social media management is very unique and interesting,” said Aprilia.

He added that the recommendation to choose Unisa Yogyakarta as the venue for the sharing session also came directly from the PP Muhammadiyah media. A total of 10 delegates from the PP Muhammadiyah Diktilitbang Council media team attended this event to exchange knowledge and experiences. The interactive discussion covered various topics, such as managing news on websites, media relations strategies, and utilizing social media platforms to strengthen the institution’s image.

This visit is expected to strengthen synergy between public relations units within Muhammadiyah and improve public communication standards across all universities.

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Rojali and Rohana: A Reflection of Social Needs and Self-Image

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The phenomenon of groups that rarely buy (Rojali) and groups that only ask questions (Rohana) in shopping centers has been widely discussed lately. Social needs, self-actualization, and self-image are the factors behind this phenomenon.

Ratna Yunita Setiyani Subardjo, a psychology lecturer at Universitas ‘Aisyiyah (Unisa) Yogyakarta, explains that there are several factors behind the Rojali and Rohana phenomena. First, social needs, where humans have a need to interact with others, and shopping malls can be a place to fulfill this need.

Second, self-actualization, where some people may visit shopping malls to show their social status or to feel part of a certain group. “Third, self-image, where some people pretend to be interested in buying something to create a positive impression in the eyes of others. We want to have a positive impression, but tomorrow people may have forgotten or not met us again,” explained Nita on Saturday (August 2, 2025).

Nita said that sometimes people want to gain a positive impression from others, that someone has the means to shop even if they are just looking and asking questions. “After all, looking and asking questions today doesn’t mean they won’t buy in the future,” said Nita.

Nita said that sometimes people want to make a positive impression on others, that they have the means to shop even if they are just browsing and asking questions. “After all, browsing and asking questions today doesn’t necessarily mean they won’t buy anything in the future,” said Nita.

On the other hand, there are times when economic capabilities are limited, so it is necessary to save money or compare prices in several places. Sometimes, people end up not buying anything because they select and feel that the item is not important or necessary.

“Our purchasing power will decrease if we want to buy something after considering various factors. This is not only negative, but also positive. Saving money actually makes us more economical. It can also serve as entertainment for those who are tired at home, engaging in social contact and communication with others, and asking questions can be a form of healing to maintain a sense of social connection with others. So, it can also be a form of personal entertainment for us,” Nita explained.

Lessons from the Phenomenon of Rohana and Rojali

Nita revealed that the trend of Rojali and Rohana provides several important lessons for society, especially regarding maturity in socializing. Maturity is not only about personal development and personality, but maturity and adulthood in socializing are also necessary for lasting relationships and communication with others based on mutual understanding, acceptance, and mutual benefit.

“There are several things we can take as benefits or lessons from the trends of Rohana and Rojali. First, about consumption and existence. This phenomenon shows that consumption and existence are not only about buying things, but also about how we present ourselves in front of others,” said Nita.

Second, about social image. Our social image is not only shaped by what we have, but also by how we interact with others and present ourselves on social media. “Third, about empathy and understanding. This phenomenon shows that we need to be more empathetic and understand the social meaning behind other people’s behavior, not just see it from the perspective of ridicule or sarcasm,” said Nita.

Nita invites us to view this phenomenon more wisely and not merely from the perspective of mockery for following social trends and egocentrism. We need to understand that everyone has different needs and motivations, and we need to be more empathetic and understanding of one another. “Because the best people are those who can feel when others are hurting. Yes, we understand that hurting is like this, so don’t do it,” said Nita.

Nita mentioned that similar phenomena are likely to continue emerging in the future, taking on new forms. She likened it to a virus: once a cure like a vaccine is found, it will mutate. “Human behavior is the same—it evolves and adapts with the times, especially with technological advancements and changes in consumer behavior. We need to continuously monitor and understand these changes to adapt and grow harmoniously, so we can maintain mental health,” concluded Nita.

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Unisa Yogyakarta Lecturer: Tom Lembong Deserves Clemency

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Gerry Katon Mahendra, a lecturer in Public Administration at Universitas ‘Aisyiyah (Unisa) Yogyakarta, considers the abolition accepted by former Minister of Trade Tom Lembong to be quite reasonable. This is based on the facts presented at the trial.

“Considering the facts of Tom Lembong’s trial, where no malicious intent (mens rea) to enrich himself or others was found, he did not enjoy the proceeds of corruption, and made decisions based on coordination and consideration of the circumstances at the time, I believe it is quite reasonable for him to receive abolition. Of course, this process remains the full right of the President, taking into account the situation and conditions. Administratively, the above conditions sufficiently meet the elements of accountability and justice,” said Gerry on Saturday (August 2, 2025).

In the context of public administration, the issue of abolition against Tom Lembong provides the reality that there is still a lot of work and challenges to manage a transparent government, make the law the commander of the government, and be fair. “Furthermore, all parties should improve and it is time for differences of opinion to be managed more democratically,” said Gerry.

“Abolition is not just a matter of ordinary administrative discretion; it is more complex than that and is a constitutional right of the President. Although it is the President’s right, in its implementation, it must take into account the aspirations of the people, wisdom, and remain within the corridor of applicable law,” said Gerry.

The main considerations in the decision to grant or deny abolition are ensuring substantive justice, the aspirations of the people’s interests, and the integrity of the law being implemented. If these aspects are fulfilled, then it is valid to grant abolition.

In the principle of accountability, abolition must be able to guarantee moral and legal accountability. This means that the consideration of abolition must not violate legal justice. Second, the principle of transparency means that the process of granting abolition must be open and accessible to the public and free from manipulative intentions. Third, considering the principle of justice, abolition is granted if there are allegations or conditions of injustice against a person in the legal process.

“Abolition without considering objectivity can certainly undermine public trust and disrupt the good governance of a country,” said Gerry.

If abolition is carried out without considering aspects of justice, it is very likely to damage the bureaucratic order and public trust. Conversely, a clear abolition process will make the public place a high level of trust in the government.

According to Gerry, normative measures must remain at the forefront of abolition decisions. Objectivity, legal facts, and public aspirations must remain the main basis for such decisions. Regardless of political interests, objectivity in viewing cases must be the main consideration.

“This case teaches us all that power must be exercised with ethics and democratic principles of justice, and that the public has an important role in overseeing it,” said Gerry.

Gerry also advised the public to be at the forefront of oversight, including in the context of abolition policy, by encouraging transparency and open explanations from the government and ensuring that the process is based on principles of justice. “The public, media, and academics must be able to ensure that abolition is not used politically and selectively. Public oversight is key to ensuring that every state decision remains within the corridor of law, ethics, and sound governance,” concluded Gerry.

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