Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra said he was surprised by reports showing people prefer calling fire departments instead of police, even in non-emergency or unusual household situations.
Speaking at a lecture at Makassar’s Muslim University of Indonesia on Monday, Yusril said the trend highlights a shift in public perception.
Many residents, he noted, appear to feel safer and less intimidated when dealing with firefighters.
He cited examples of citizens calling firefighters to remove snakes or crocodiles from homes, rescue people stuck in window grilles, or handle minor incidents that are not part of police duties.
Yusril said he found it remarkable that firefighters have become the first responders for dangerous animals, while police are rarely contacted for such incidents.
He added that the trend reflects deeper issues of trust.
According to Yusril, the shift suggests that firefighters are seen as more approachable and protective, while police often evoke fear or discomfort, discouraging people from seeking their help.
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He said the phenomenon should prompt serious reflection within the police force.
Officers, he added, need to rebuild confidence by demonstrating protection, service and professionalism rather than intimidation.
Yusril acknowledged ongoing criticism of police investigators, saying concerns over law enforcement performance must be addressed through reforms and improved accountability.
He stressed that public trust can be restored only if officers consistently uphold transparency and fairness in investigations and daily interactions with citizens.
Yusril said firefighters’ reputation for reliability offers practical lessons for the police on how to strengthen community engagement and ensure citizens feel supported.
He encouraged police leadership to treat public feedback as constructive guidance, not hostility, and to adopt service-oriented practices that prioritize public safety over rigid procedure.
“Our task is to improve. We accept these suggestions so conditions can improve in the future," Yusril said.
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Translator: Abdul Kadir, Mecca Yumna
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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