When governments make mistakes, it’s often not about policies—it’s about words.
This article is inspired by reporting from Tirto.id, an Indonesian media outlet known for its critical take on politics and society. While the examples come from Indonesia, the lessons apply to governments everywhere.
When a Metaphor Shakes a Nation
One of the most infamous moments in Indonesian political communication was the “gecko versus crocodile” controversy. A police official once compared the country’s anti-corruption commission (KPK) to a weak little gecko fighting against a powerful crocodile—symbolizing the national police.
What may have seemed like a simple metaphor quickly exploded into a national debate, sparking protests, social tension, and years of public distrust.
It wasn’t just a slip of the tongue. It was proof that in politics, words are never neutral—and one poorly chosen phrase can ignite a crisis.
Why Communication Experts Aren’t Enough
When political language backfires, the usual fix is to hire communication consultants. They train leaders to appear confident, polish their delivery, and manage stage presence.
But according to Neneng Nurjanah, a lecturer in Indonesian language studies at UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, governments don’t just need communication experts—they need linguists.
“Everyone claims to be a communication expert, but not every communication expert is a language expert,” Neneng said in a 2025 podcast interview.
The difference is crucial:
- Communication experts focus on how something is said—tone, style, body language.
- Linguists focus on what is said—the choice of words, the hidden meanings, and how those words shape public perception.
And in politics, it’s often the words themselves—not the delivery—that cause damage.
Language as a Reflection of Society
Language isn’t just a tool to communicate. It reflects power, ideology, and social realities. Critical discourse analyst Norman Fairclough, often cited by Neneng, argues that behind every word or text lies hidden ideology.
That’s why when a government official uses dismissive or arrogant language, the public doesn’t just hear the sentence. They feel the inequality, superiority, or injustice implied in it.
This explains why political statements so often trigger backlash. In Indonesia, as in many countries, lawmakers, spokespersons, and leaders frequently stumble into controversy—not because of ill intent, but because the words they choose carry unintended weight.
The Linguist’s Anti-Blunder Toolkit
So, how exactly can linguists help governments? Neneng offers practical advice that resonates globally:
- Clarity first. Define your message before speaking. Ambiguity creates misinterpretation.
- Use plain language. Citizens have diverse educational backgrounds. Simple words reach everyone.
- Avoid harmful connotations. Words that demean or divide communities must be avoided.
- Pause before speaking. Spontaneous remarks often reflect emotion, not reason. Reflection prevents blunders.
In practice, linguists could serve as advisors who review speeches, draft press releases, and even provide on-the-spot feedback before press conferences. Their role is to ensure that every word is intentional, culturally sensitive, and aligned with public trust.
Why This Matters Globally
This isn’t just an Indonesian phenomenon. Around the world, careless words from politicians spark outrage:
- In the United States, a single tweet can end a political career.
- In Europe, clumsy remarks about migration or identity often trigger protests.
- In Asia, one insensitive phrase can go viral within hours.
In the age of social media, political language spreads instantly—and mistakes spread even faster. Governments can’t afford to treat words as afterthoughts.
From Damage Control to Trust Building
Ultimately, effective political communication isn’t just about selling policies. It’s about building trust. A government that constantly apologizes for verbal slip-ups loses credibility.
Hiring linguists may sound unconventional, but it’s a simple, cost-effective way to prevent unnecessary crises and strengthen trust between governments and citizens.
As Neneng put it directly: “There are plenty of linguists out there, sir.” And it might be time for governments worldwide to start hiring them.
