Local sources from Indonesia: VIVA Olret, Kaltimtoday.co.
UK coverage: Financial Times.
Recent events in Indonesia have not only stirred national unrest but have also captured the attention of the international community, as reports emerge from both local and global news outlets. The catalyst for the widespread demonstrations was a tragic accident on August 28, involving a police car and a motorcycle taxi driver, which resulted in the driver’s death and ignited a series of protests across the country. The deceased, identified as Affan Kurniawan, was reportedly working for the online transportation companies Gojek and Grab at the time of the incident. This incident has led to a sharp decline in the Rupiah and affected local businesses and educational institutions, underscoring the profound impact of the protests on Indonesia’s social and economic landscape. In response to the growing unrest, President Prabowo Subianto urged calm and ordered a comprehensive investigation, which led to the arrest of seven officers involved in the fatal collision. Metro Jaya Police Chief Asep Edi Suheri extended an apology for the incident, reflecting the government’s effort to address the public’s grievances. The protests initially focused on issues such as parliament members’ salaries and the education budget but have since evolved into a broader movement calling for law enforcement transparency and accountability. The incident and subsequent protests have been widely covered by international media, with The Washington Post, The Straits Times, RNZ (Radio New Zealand), and Telegraph India providing in-depth reports. These publications highlighted the nationwide protests, the government’s response, and the promise of further demonstrations by students, indicating the significant interest and concern from the global community regarding the situation in Indonesia. The international coverage has portrayed the demonstrations not just as a local issue but as a symbol of resistance and a call for justice, resonating with audiences worldwide and bringing to light the challenges faced by the Indonesian society.
