Title:
DISCOURSE ON PUBLIC OPINION AND LEGAL PERSPECTIVES IN CONTEMPORARY INDONESIA

Authors:
Djoko Sutopo

Abstract:
This study aims at describing how the discourse on public opinion and legal perspectives in contemporary Indonesia unfolds. The data are collected from media published on line. The research method is based on the perspectives of systemic functional linguistics on discourse. The findings suggest that political participation among Indonesians over the past year is argued by the author to have increased as political rights, such as freedom of expression, freedom to form association, are now guaranteed. It is added that citizens can express their political opinions on any issues through social media. It is believed that a complex reality of public issues is framed, both through the media and social media. In terms of legal perspectives, the author reminds that one cannot be punished just because of public pressure. If that ever happens, the government will lose its credibility. One can only be punished if proven guilty according to the Criminal Code. Satisfying calls for justice cannot be done by unjustly breaking the law.