Indonesia: Labor unions call for nationwide protests Oct. 24-31 to demand minimum wage increase

Activists from the Labor Party and Indonesia Trade Union Confederation (KSPI) have called for nationwide protests Oct. 24-31 to demand a minimum wage increase and repeal of the Omnibus Law on Job Creation. Organizers claim that more than 100,000 workers will participate in related gatherings across major cities and districts. In Jakarta, planned events Oct. 24 include a demonstration outside the State Palace from 10:00, with gathering points at Arjuna Wijaya Horse Statue, City Hall, and the Indosat building. Hundreds to thousands of people could attend related demonstrations.

The largest gatherings will likely occur in Jakarta; other possible gathering sites include the House of Representatives, Hotel Indonesia Roundabout, National Monument, and 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; university campuses; and prominent roadways.

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