Indonesian election feels like a dating app.
Swipe right, swipe left. That’s how simple it is for us to express our interest in someone. Everyone has their preferences in choosing: Look at the photo, read the description, and make a choice. With limited information, just 15 seconds is enough to decide whether we like someone or not. At the extreme, we might only look at their photo to decide whether to swipe right or left. It’s quite intriguing how we can find someone we need through our gadgets. Interestingly, the elections in Indonesia also have a similar feeling. Why?
The 2024 election has just ended. Personally, it was quite a memorable election with lots of drama and entertaining dynamics. Unexpectedly, the selection of regional representatives (DPD) received a significant portion of the discussion in this election. A comedian known for his catchphrase “spontan uhuy,” Komeng, emerged as the winner in the DPD election for West Java. Armed with a unique pose in his photo and a reputation as a mischievous and entertaining figure, Komeng was able to garner many votes. Notably, Komeng received 5.3 million votes.
From this phenomenon with Komeng, I think people’s considerations in choosing DPD members are similar to our considerations in choosing dating apps.
We open the app, look at their photo, and start choosing. When we feel a connection and familiarity, we choose in just 15 seconds. However, what we’re choosing is a senator who will represent our region.
Making a quick decision like this is fine on a dating app because we still have the opportunity to validate through chat or meetings. On the other hand, for DPD elections, it’s the opposite: validate first, then choose. Well, that’s it for now.
*This writing is raw and unedited, just like what was written at the Just Write #2 event.
There will be further development of the writing in the next version for a more exciting and profound piece. For now, I present the raw writing so that you can read it immediately Hehe, happy reading!
