Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — The phenomenon of “Blue Garuda” that went viral in 2024 following a revisions to the Regional Election Law has resurfaced on social media. This time, the emblem is being used to protest the government’s plan to increase the Value-Added Tax (VAT) rate to 12% in 2025.
Back in August 2024, the Blue Garuda, with the words “Peringatan Darurat” (emergency warning) written across it, flooded social media as a response to political concerns surrounding the 2024 regional elections. Now, it is making waves again as a visual representation of public objection against the upcoming VAT hike.
The planned increase, which would raise the VAT rate from the current 11% to 12%, has sparked criticism, with many arguing that the government has failed to provide improved public services despite the previous hike from 10% to 11%.
Social media users are widely sharing the following message alongside the Blue Garuda:
“Taxation without representation is a crime. Don’t demand higher taxes if you can’t serve the people well. Reject the 12% VAT.”
The Blue Garuda post said, featured with a white Garuda logo in the top left corner against a blue background.
Government Defends VAT Policy
Responding to the uproar surrounding the viral “Blue Garuda”, Deni Surjantoro, Head of Communications and Information Services at the Ministry of Finance (Kemenkeu) spoke up. He emphasized that the planned 12% VAT increase in 2025 had undergone thorough deliberation within the government, while also taking account various aspects including economic and social.
“The 12% VAT adjustment policy was developed through in-depth discussions between the government and the DPR. While also taking into account various aspects, including economic, social, and fiscal considerations,” Deni stated as reported by Detik on Thursday (Nov. 21, 2024).
He also highlighted that the policy, as outlined in the Tax Regulation Harmonization Law (UU HPP), was formulated based on comprehensive scientific studies involving academics and industry experts.
Social Media Backlash and Boycotts
Despite these assurances, the planned hike has drawn significant public concern. Many critics arguing it will burden lower-income households by driving up the cost of goods and services.
Social Media Uproar Calls for Frugal Living as Indonesia’s VAT Hike to 12%
In response to the VAT increase, an influencer on the social media platform X initiated a boycott movement promoting frugal living as a way to resist the policy. The campaign quickly gained traction, further fueling the online debate.
Now, the public is once again rallying around the Blue Garuda as a symbol of resistance, expressing their dissatisfaction and urging the government to reconsider the 12% VAT increase. The issue continues to dominate conversations on social media, reflecting widespread anxiety about the economic implications of the tax hike.
(Raidi/Agung)
