G20 singer’s role slammed

THE decision to name a pop star as its Group of 20 spokesperson is the latest move in what some analysts say is a series of vanity appointments the government is making as part of a bid to connect with a young population.

Ayunda Faza Maudya (pic) – a 27-year-old singer and actress better known as Maudy Ayunda -- was named as spokesperson for the country’s G-20 presidency. Ayunda takes on the role as Indonesia faces the delicate balance of hosting several leaders of the world’s 20 largest economies against the backdrop of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.