Sarwendah apologizes as buzzer‑pay controversy fuels social media debate

Sarwendah posted an apology video on Instagram on 5 June 2026 after a live broadcast in which she used harsh language and referenced a disputed Rp200 million child‑support issue. In the video she expressed regret and asked the public for space to resolve personal matters.

Soon after, netizens claimed the video was supported by paid commenters. A screenshot shared on Threads allegedly showed instructions to post positive comments for a fee of “Rp350p” per comment, with sample wording and a note that comments should not be identical. No concrete evidence has confirmed the allegation, but the claim has kept the story alive on social media.

Ruben Onsu’s lawyer, Minola Sebayang, said the video was addressed to the general public, not specifically to Onsu, and that it would not change public perception of the ongoing dispute. Media experts, such as Kirdi Putra, argued the video resembled image‑management rather than a sincere apology, citing verbal and non‑verbal cues. The controversy continues to dominate Indonesian entertainment news.