Students Criticize Free Meals Program and Village Cooperative Project

Hundreds of Indonesian students staged a protest in central Jakarta on Friday, voicing their opposition to several government social and economic policies. The demonstrators argued that the government is mismanaging the country’s finances and resources, according to local media reports.

Gathering under the banner “Indonesia Heading Toward Bankruptcy,” the protesters attempted to march toward the city’s main traffic circle. However, they were unable to reach the location after being blocked by security personnel from the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the National Police, according to TEMPO.

The demonstration, organized by university student groups, focused on opposition to the government’s Free Nutritious Meals Program and the Red and White Village Cooperative Project. Protest leaders described both initiatives as a misuse of state funds and a burden on the national budget.

“This is not the end. This is only the first step. Let’s save our energy for what’s coming next,” student leader Yatalathof Ma’shum Imawan told demonstrators during the rally.

The students also called on the government to take immediate measures to reduce the prices of basic necessities and fuel. They argued that rising living costs are placing increasing pressure on households and that economic growth has not benefited all segments of society equally.

The rally, which drew participants from several universities, concluded in central Jakarta after police prevented protesters from reaching their intended destination near the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout.

Organizers said additional demonstrations are planned and that efforts are underway to mobilize a larger coalition of students in the coming days.

Earlier, the government reportedly instructed police to allow students to exercise their right to peaceful assembly and to avoid the use of force against demonstrators.

Source : https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/hundreds-of-indonesian-students-protest-government-social-spending-policies-in-jakarta/3965476