In Indonesia a protest slogan “Stop Tot Tot Wuk Wuk” is sweeping across social media. The catchy phrase mimics the loud sound of sirens and has quickly become satire aimed at police who misuse sirens and flashing strobes on the road. It has become a joke that people use to criticize how sirens and flashing strobes are mostly misused. What began as a joke has now grown into a sign of public anger. Many Indonesians said the police use sirens mostly not for emergencies but to cut through traffic or show power. The slogan’s popularity on social media highlights a growing call for accountability and respect for traffic rules on the country’s busy roads.
The trend is spreading fast on social media, with memes, hashtags, and TikTok videos making the slogan even more popular. Many people leave angry comments online. One of the videos from @officialinews on TikTok shows this phenomenon. People leave comments like, @Sirwal Proyang: “Paling nyebelin kalau truck TNI atau Polri lewat padahal kosong suka nyerobot jalan. terus lampu strobo polisi juga kalau di toll itu sangat menyilaukan mata rawan bikin kecelakaan, lagian fungsinya juga ga jelas.” Another one from @Eliance Marpaung: “Apalagi saya perempuan nyetir di jalan padet, trus di pepet suruh minggir buat jalan pejabat auto kaget sama agak panik, belom lagi silaunya lampu sirene biru mobil polisi bikin black out beberapa detik.” People complain that the action of it is not only annoying but also dangerous because sudden sirens and flashing strobes can shock drivers and cause traffic problems or even accidents.
The slogan is a playful jab, mocking officials’ cocky behavior and misuse of privilege in non-emergency convoys. It sparks talk about fair road rules and equality, questioning why some get to dodge traffic laws. The movement has resonated deeply with Indonesians, especially younger urban dwellers who are active on social media and increasingly vocal about systemic issues.
As of September 2025, public sentiment reflects growing distrust in authorities, fueled by broader frustrations over inequality and governance. Many feel the misuse of sirens is a small but glaring example of how power is abused, adding to tensions in a society already grappling with economic pressures and urban overcrowding. Social media posts show commuters, particularly in cities like Jakarta and Surabaya, sharing stories of daily disruptions caused by non-emergency convoys, which worsen traffic and stress levels.
Indonesia’s Law No. 22 of 2009 says sirens and flashing strobes are only for emergency vehicles on urgent tasks. Misusing them breaks traffic safety rules, but weak enforcement keeps the problem alive, fueling public anger. Recent discussions on X suggest that some communities are organizing online petitions and planning peaceful rallies to demand stricter oversight.
If this continues, people might push back with protests or defiance, amplified by social media’s reach. Stronger rules, better training for police, and public awareness campaigns can help ensure emergency vehicle gear is used properly, cutting down safety hazards and noise pollution. The movement calls for fair, safe roads where everyone follows the same rules, reflecting a broader societal push for transparency and fairness in Indonesia’s urban centers.
Penulis: Nur Aliyah, Assyifa Khairunnisa, Naylul Munji, Alfarazi Giblatar
