A new social media trend known as ‘Tot Tot Wuk Wuk’ has emerged as a satirical reference to the sound of sirens and strobe lights used by convoys escorting officials in Indonesia.
The phrase has become shorthand for public frustration with the excessive and often indiscriminate use of sirens on the roads.
In recent weeks, users on Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) have widely shared videos and posts criticising the practice. Netizens argue that the constant noise and flashing lights are disruptive, particularly when used by vehicles that do not appear to have urgent or official reasons.
“The people are tired of your tat tet tot tet tot and strobe lights on the motorway. Don’t blame the people if you get stuck in traffic,” wrote one user, @JoppieMagai, on X.
The Rise of ‘Tot Tot Wuk Wuk’
Another recurring theme in the online discussion is that only ambulances and fire engines should rightfully be given priority on the roads.
Many expressed anger at seeing convoys with sirens pushing through traffic on motorways, which are intended to allow smoother journeys.
According to critics, the misuse of these devices has led some drivers to deliberately refuse to give way to convoys, even when sirens continue to sound. Such actions, while risky, reflect a wider frustration among the public, who believe that sirens and strobes are increasingly used as a tool of privilege rather than necessity.
Police Response and Temporary Suspension
In response to the mounting criticism, the Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas Polri) has announced a suspension of the use of sirens, strobe lights, and rotators for non-urgent convoys.
“I have suspended the use of those sounds for escorts,” said Kakorlantas Polri, Inspector General Agus Suryonugroho, during a press briefing at the National Police Headquarters in South Jakarta on Friday (22/9/2025), as quoted by Liputan6.
Speaking further to Kompas.com on Sunday (21/9/2025), Agus explained that his office was carrying out a broader review.
“We are temporarily stopping the use of these sounds while conducting a comprehensive evaluation. Escorts can still operate, but the use of sirens and strobes is being evaluated. If it is not a priority, it should not be sounded,” he said.
Agus stressed that sirens should only be used in genuinely urgent situations. “Even if they are used, sirens are for special purposes, not indiscriminately. For now, it is a recommendation not to use them unless it is urgent,” he added.
The move has been described as a direct response to public complaints. Agus noted that the evaluation reflects the National Police’s willingness to listen.
“We are grateful for the public’s concern. We will follow up on all feedback. For the time being, let’s work together to maintain traffic order,” he said.
While escorts for certain officials will still be allowed, the change signals an effort by the police to balance operational needs with the public’s call for more considerate road use.
