Bus operator (PO) MTrans has clarified a viral social media video showing several buses sounding their horns with audio from a speech by President Joko Widodo saying "I will fight!". Jhony Sasongko, from MTrans Resources Development Communications, confirmed that the horn sound in the video is purely an audio manipulation or edit after management conducted a direct inspection of the fleet that appeared in the video.
The MTrans fleet featured in the viral video is a bus operating the Blitar-Jakarta (Poris) route, said Sasongko to detikJatim on Thursday (6/8). Not only the fleet on that route, but inspections were also conducted on all other MTrans fleets to ensure there were no horn modifications that violated regulations. Sasongko emphasised that MTrans management applies strict regulations and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) regarding fleet operational standards.
In response to the proliferation of fabricated content on social media involving bus operator names, Sasongko urged internet users and the general public to be more wise and careful in consuming digital information. He warned that not all videos that circulate are authentic, especially viral ones concerning regulatory violations or horn modifications.
Sasongko also conveyed a special message to the bus enthusiast community (Busmania) to work together in creating a positive atmosphere in Indonesia's public transport industry. "Bus transport always prioritises safety and comfort," he said.
The short-duration video previously went viral showing several bus fleets from various operators such as Belvia Trans, MTrans, and Aleena Trans travelling on the road while repeatedly sounding their horns with audio from a Jokowi speech. The post triggered various reactions from internet users, with some finding it entertaining for its creativity, but many also questioned the authenticity of the sound and the legality of the horn modifications.
