From Sipepek to Sithole: Indonesian Apps with ‘Sexist’ Names Spark Outrage The Indonesian government has faced widespread criticism for naming several official apps and programs with allegedly sexist names. These names have sparked protests and demands for change from women’s rights groups and the general public. Sipepek and Sithole One of the most controversial apps is “Sipepek,” which translates to “female genital mucus” in Indonesian. The app was intended to provide health information to women, but its name ignited an uproar. Another app, “Sithole,” which means “male genitals” in Zulu, was also met with widespread condemnation. Implications of Sexist Names Critics argue that these names are offensive and perpetuate harmful stereotypes about women. They contend that such language normalizes the objectification and sexualization of women and reinforces gender inequality. Government Response The Indonesian government initially defended its decision to use these names, claiming that they were not intended to be offensive. However, following public outcry, the government announced that it would review the names and consider changing them. Protests and Demands Women’s rights groups and activists have staged protests and launched online campaigns demanding that the government change the names of the apps. They argue that these names are a disrespect to women and undermine efforts to promote gender equality. Online Petition A Change.org petition calling for the removal of the sexist names has garnered over 100,000 signatures. The petition states that “these apps are not only offensive, but they also perpetuate the idea that women are objects to be objectified and sexualized.” Calls for Accountability Protesters have also called for accountability from government officials responsible for choosing these names. They demand that officials be held responsible for their actions and that steps be taken to prevent similar incidents from happening again. Conclusion The controversy over the sexist names used in Indonesian government apps reflects the ongoing struggle for gender equality in Indonesia. The debate has highlighted the need for greater sensitivity and respect towards women’s rights and the importance of using language that does not perpetuate harmful stereotypes. As the government reviews the names of these apps, it is hoped that it will take into consideration the concerns of women’s rights groups and the general public and make changes that promote gender equality and respect for all.Indonesian Apps Draw Criticism for Sexist and Suggestive NamesIndonesian Apps Draw Criticism for Sexist and Suggestive Names Several apps and programs launched by the Indonesian government have sparked public outrage due to their allegedly sexist and sexually suggestive names. The controversy has prompted calls for the names to be changed. Among the most criticized is the social platform “Sipepek,” an acronym for the Social Welfare Service Administration Information System in Cirebon regency. While local officials defend the name as having a regional meaning of “complete,” the term “pepek” in the common Indonesian dictionary has a vulgar connotation. Other questionable names include “Sithole,” an online consultation system in Semarang District Court, and “Siska Ku Intip” (I Take a Look at Siska), a program that combines palm oil plantations with cattle raising. Critics argue that these names objectify or diminish women. The National Commission on Violence Against Women has warned against using names that connote body parts or gender. Members of parliament have also expressed concerns. Selly Andriany Gantina, of the ruling PDI-P party, noted that the term “pepek” has a negative meaning outside Cirebon and called for the name’s removal. Despite some mockery on social media, Cirebon Regency authorities have defended the name, citing its local significance. The controversy has also extended to other apps with peculiar names, such as “Mas Dedi Memang Jantan” (Dedi is a Real Male) and “Mas Bro Membantu” (Mr. Bro Helps). Mardana Ali Sera, a member of the PKS party, condemned the use of vulgar acronyms in government programs. He urged the public to report such instances. Meanwhile, the National Commission against Violence against Women has emphasized the importance of using appropriate language that does not perpetuate objectification or gender stereotypes. President Joko Widodo has recently ordered government officials to cease developing new apps and focus on integrating existing ones to save money and reduce bureaucratic complexity. However, the controversy over inappropriate names highlights the need for greater sensitivity in app development.Indonesian Government Apps and Programs with ‘Sexist’ Names Draw Ire Several government mobile applications and programs in Indonesia have come under fire for their allegedly sexist names, sparking protests and demands for change. One of the most controversial apps is Sipepek, a health information app targeting pregnant women and new mothers. The name, which translates to “vagina,” has been criticized as derogatory and humiliating. Another app, named Posyandu Sithole, is a program providing basic healthcare for children under five. The term “sithole” is a derogatory slang for women’s genitals. Activists and women’s rights groups have condemned these names as disrespectful and perpetuating negative stereotypes. They argue that the names reflect a deep-seated sexism within the government and society. Protests and online petitions have been launched, demanding the government change the names. The Minister of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection, Bintang Puspayoga, has recently vowed to review the names and consider changes. Critics maintain that the government must address the underlying sexism that allowed such names to be approved in the first place. They call for comprehensive efforts to promote gender equality and combat discrimination against women in all aspects of life. Meanwhile, the government has defended the names, saying they are derived from local languages and traditions. However, the controversy has highlighted the need for greater sensitivity and respect towards women in public discourse and policymaking.