Hundreds of Indonesian students rallied in Jakarta on Friday to protest the economic policies and spending priorities of President Prabowo Subianto’s government amid mounting fiscal pressures and rising living costs.
The demonstration, called “Heading to Bankrupt Indonesia”, focused on demands for lower fuel and food prices, the cancellation of what protesters described as wasteful government programmes, and greater accountability over public spending.
Students wearing university jackets marched toward central Jakarta’s Bundaran HI area, where some were blocked by police and military personnel.
Scuffles broke out after some protesters attempted to push through security lines and barricades.
Authorities deployed thousands of police officers and soldiers to monitor the demonstration.
The protest followed a gasoline price increase introduced earlier this week after the government faced growing budgetary pressure from rising global oil prices and broader economic challenges.
Indonesia has previously maintained fuel subsidies despite higher energy costs, but protesters argued that recent policies have shifted the burden onto ordinary citizens.
Demonstrators carried signs calling for the reversal of fuel price increases and urged the government to lower the cost of staple foods.
Organisers said the rally was driven by concerns over the country’s economic direction as the rupiah weakened sharply against the US dollar in recent months.
Student leaders outlined five demands, including the cancellation of Prabowo’s flagship free meals programme and village cooperative initiatives, which they described as financially unsustainable.
Beyond economic issues, protesters also criticised the expanding role of the military in civilian affairs, warning that it could undermine Indonesia’s democratic institutions.
Student leader Yatalathof Ma’shum Imawan said the demonstrations were intended to highlight concerns about the country’s economic, democratic and moral trajectory.
Government officials defended their policies, saying public demonstrations were part of a democratic process and that authorities remained open to public opinion.
Officials also argued that spending programmes, including the free meals initiative, were designed to improve public health and welfare.
The programme has nevertheless faced growing scrutiny, including a corruption investigation and concerns about oversight, adding to broader criticism from student groups and activists.