indonesia: Student protest in Jakarta September 24

Event

Students across the country have taken the street on Tuesday, September 24, in continuation of previous demonstration against the passing of multiple controversial bills.

In Jakarta, students have gathered in front of the House of Representative in Central Jakarta at 13:00 (local time). Transportation disruptions were reported in the vicinity of the rally as Jakarta Metro Police's traffic unit closed several roads around Parliament, including total closure of Jalan Tentara Pelajar Pojok and Jalan Gatot Subroto roads. Police reportedly used water canons and tear gas to disperse the crowd later in the afternoon.

More rallies were reported across the country, including in Palembang (South Sumatra), Yogyakarta (East Java),  Malang (East Java), and Makassar (South Sulawesi).

Similar protests are possible in Indonesia over the coming weeks. Heightened security measures and localized transportation disruptions are likely around demonstration sites.

Context

On Monday, September 24, students across the country held rallies in multiple locations to denounce several controversial bills.

In addition to the KUHP bill, which would outlaw extramarital and gay sex, students are protesting against problematic articles in at least four other bills, including a manpower bill, a land bill, a mining bill, and a correctional procedures bill. Protesters are also demanding lawmakers to pass a bill on the eradication of sexual violence. On Friday, September 20, President Joko Widodo delayed a planned vote on the bill KUHP bill, which was originally scheduled for Tuesday, September 24.

Advice

Individuals in Indonesia are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.