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Indonesia A controversy arose over the promotional billboards of the horror film Aku Harus Mati (I Must Die) in the capital Jakarta, after which the administration has decided to remove them. Messages like ‘I Must Die’ and ‘Sell My Soul for the Wealth’ were written on these billboards, along with a picture of a blue scary creature with red eyes.

These billboards, installed in late March, were meant to promote the film released on April 2, but people called them scary and mentally disturbing for public places. after this social media And the local people expressed strong objection.

What will be the impact on children’s mental health?

Commissioner of the Indonesian Child Protection Commission, Diyah Puspitarini, described such messages as dangerous for children. He said, “Such words can affect the mental health of children, because they are not yet able to understand or control the information properly.” According to a survey,

• Suicidal thoughts among children in 2015: 5.2%
• Increase in 2023: 8.5%
• Suicide attempts: increased from 3.9% to 10.7%
• Apart from this, at least 115 cases of child suicide were registered between 2023 and 2025.

What action did the administration take?

Governor Pramono Anung confirmed that the administration decided to remove the billboard after receiving the complaint. He said, “Such sensitive advertising strategies are made just to attract attention, but they have an impact on the society. This should not happen again.” According to Satpol PP chief Satriadi Gunawan,

• At least 3 billboards were removed in West Jakarta and Central Jakarta
• Removal action is underway in other cities as well after receiving complaints.
• The producer apologized

The film’s producer Iwet Ramadhan had earlier said that the promotional material was approved by the censor board, but after the controversy escalated, he apologized. “We have listened to the public’s feedback and apologize for the inconvenience caused,” he said. The makers decided to remove the billboards from 36 locations.

What warning did the Health Ministry give?

Imran Pambudi, director of health services for vulnerable groups at Indonesia’s health ministry, warned that such messages could encourage copycat behavior. He said, “Repeatedly seeing such messages can have a negative impact on people suffering from depression or mental stress.” According to the data:

• Suicide cases in 2023: 1,350
• Increase in 2024: 1,450
• National helpline calls: increased from 400 to 550 per day

What is the story of the film?

The story of the film revolves around a girl named Mala, who gets into debt in her desire for a luxury life. She returns to an orphanage, where mysterious events begin and secrets involving supernatural forces are revealed.