Indonesia’s Garuda sues YouTube reviewer for mocking in-flight menu

An Indonesian YouTube personality said on Tuesday he had been sued by Garuda over a social media post about a handwritten business-class menu. Rius Vernandes, a popular vlogger, posted an Instagram video showing the menu written on a piece of notebook paper on Saturday with the caption: “The menu is still being printed, sir.” The post went viral and prompted Indonesian social media users to mock the airline. Rius said he has received a summons from the police in connection with the post. “We've been reported for defamation. I'm sure you know I had no intention whatsoever to defame anyone,” he said on Instagram. “I hope you can support me because I don't want anyone to be prosecuted for an honest review and constructive criticism.” Garuda said the handwritten menu was made by a cabin crew member for personal use and not intended to be handed out to passengers. Police confirmed that Garuda had filed a defamation case against Rius. Garuda came under more criticism on Tuesday after a circular instructing the cabin crew to prohibit passengers from taking photos or videos mid-air circulated on social media. The airline later clarified that the directive had been withdrawn, but said that passengers are advised to respect other people's privacy by not taking their photos.<br/>