Indonesia: Protests denouncing fuel price increases likely through late September /update 1

Event

Various groups will likely continue to hold protests nationwide through late September denouncing the government's recent decision to increase fuel prices. The All-Indonesian Student Executive Board (BEM SI) held a protest near the Arjuna Wijaya Horse Statue in Jakarta Sept. 15. Protesters held related gatherings in other cities in recent days as well, including Bekasi Sept. 15 and Surabaya Sept. 14. Several groups, notably student associations and trade unions, such as the Indonesia Trade Union Confederation (KSPI), have been holding related protests for several days since the fuel price announcement.

Further protests are likely in the coming days, with the largest gatherings probably occurring in Jakarta; possible gathering sites include the House of Representatives, the Arjuna Wijaya Horse Statue, the City Hall, the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout, the National Monument, and the State Palace. Demonstrations will also likely occur in other urban centers, including Bandung, Makassar, Medan, Semarang, Surabaya, and Yogyakarta. Possible gathering venues include government buildings, such as provincial, regency, and city councils and the offices of governors, regents, and mayors; fuel stations; university campuses; and prominent roadways. Turnout will probably vary, with protests in the larger cities potentially involving thousands of people.

Authorities will probably enact increased security measures near rally sites, especially in Jakarta. Officials will almost certainly deploy security personnel at protest sites. Localized traffic and business disruptions are likely. Clashes may occur, especially if police forcibly disperse demonstrators; officials may use tear gas and water cannons to break up crowds. Police may conduct mass arrests if protesters get violent or refuse to disperse.

Advice

Avoid any protests due to possible clashes. If violence occur nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a safe nongovernmental building. Plan for localized transport and business disruptions. Allow additional time to reach destinations near protest sites. Heed all official security and transport advisories.