Benny K. Harman apologizes for insulting journalist at Parliament

Benny K. Harman, Vice Chairman of the Democratic Party, issued an apology following a verbal confrontation with a journalist at the Parliamentary Complex in Senayan, Jakarta. The incident occurred on August 11, 2026, when Harman directed the question, ‘Woi kau, otak kamu ada gak’ (Hey you, do you have a brain), toward a reporter.

The confrontation arose after the journalist pressed for clarification regarding the absence of the 6th President of Indonesia, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY), from the annual MPR session. While Harman had previously noted that SBY was undergoing medical check-ups, the reporter's follow-up question triggered the outburst.

The Parliamentary Journalists Coordinator (KWP) condemned the remarks, stating they were demeaning to the journalistic profession. The KWP emphasized that follow-up questions are essential to ensuring public information is clear and accurate. Following threats to bring the matter to the House Ethics Council (MKD), Harman apologized, stating he had no ill intent and regretted causing offense.