Indonesian Students Rally Against Rising Costs and Government Spending

Thousands of university students gathered in Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, on Friday to protest government policies they say are worsening economic hardship across the country.

The demonstration, attended by about 1,500 students, focused on soaring fuel and food prices, which protesters argue are placing an increasing burden on ordinary Indonesians. The rally comes as the country faces growing economic challenges linked to global supply chain disruptions and rising import costs.

Wearing their university jackets, students marched through central Jakarta carrying banners and chanting slogans demanding immediate government action. Organizers outlined several demands, including lower fuel prices, reduced food costs, and a review of major state-funded welfare programmes.

Many protesters criticized President Prabowo Subianto's flagship free school meals initiative and village cooperative projects, arguing that the programmes consume significant public funds while failing to address broader economic concerns.

Tensions briefly flared when some demonstrators attempted to move through police barricades, leading to minor confrontations with security personnel. Authorities deployed thousands of police officers and military personnel to maintain order during the march.

The protests were sparked in part by a recent fuel price increase introduced by the government amid mounting fiscal pressures. Indonesia’s currency has also weakened sharply in recent months, adding to public concerns about the rising cost of living.

Student leaders accused the government of failing to recognize the severity of the economic situation and called for more efficient public spending. They also expressed concern over what they described as an expanding role of the military in civilian affairs, warning that it could undermine democratic institutions.

Friday’s rally marks one of the largest student-led demonstrations in Indonesia this year and highlights growing public frustration over economic conditions and government policy decisions.

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