Indonesian students protest gov’t policies amid economic strain

Approximately 1,500 Indonesian students protested in Jakarta on Friday against President Prabowo Subianto's economic policies, citing mounting fiscal pressures and a global supply chain crisis. Demonstrators, wearing yellow university jackets, marched towards the Hotel Indonesia traffic circle, demanding lower fuel and food prices. They also called for the cancellation of what they described as "wasteful" state welfare programs, including the flagship free meals and village cooperative initiatives. The protests, dubbed "Heading to Bankrupt Indonesia," saw scuffles as some students attempted to breach police lines and barricades, with around 6,000 police and soldiers deployed. The Indonesian rupiah has weakened significantly, hitting a historic low against the US dollar earlier in June.

Hundreds of Indonesian students protested in Jakarta on Friday against government policies they believe risk bankrupting the country. Protesters demanded President Prabowo Subianto halt what they described as wasteful state spending and cancel his free meals program, citing concerns over poisonings and corruption allegations. They also opposed the recent fuel price hike, which they stated would negatively impact the middle class. The demonstrations reflect growing public discontent over perceived mismanagement, coinciding with a decline in the Indonesian rupiah. Students voiced frustration over the perceived suppression of their right to protest, with clashes occurring as they attempted to breach a police barricade.