In Between Smiles

With the Indonesian general election drawing near, citizens are inundated with campaign paraphernalia, including banners, flags, and flyers, most of which are found to be a nuisance. A particularly serious incident involved a motorcyclist in Jakarta being tripped up by a flag placed along the main road, leading to a severe accident.

The promotional materials often feature candidates displaying insincere smiles, accompanied by grandiose and clichéd slogans like “I am a trustworthy and responsible person” or “Vote for me, I’m the smartest and most reliable candidate…”

It remains a question as to who reflects authenticity: the personas depicted on the campaign materials or the individuals we encounter walking down the street.