[Global Times Special Correspondent in Indonesia Cao Shiyun] In the past week, large-scale public demonstrations have taken place in Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, and several major cities to protest against the excessive salaries of members of parliament and unreasonable welfare policies such as housing subsidies. During the demonstration, public facilities were damaged and private property was damaged in some areas. So far, demonstrations have killed 6 people, and the social situation was once tense. In response, the Indonesian government quickly took measures to appease people's sentiments and push the situation to gradually stabilize.
On August 31, Indonesian President Prabowo held a press conference at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta and announced that Congress would cancel a number of parliamentary benefits, especially the controversial monthly housing subsidy of 50 million Indonesian rupiah (approximately 21,600 yuan). Political parties have also imposed penalties for the improper behavior of some members of parliament by revoking seats. At the same time, members 'overseas visits will be completely suspended to effectively respond to social concerns.
Prabowo stressed that the government respects the people's freedom of speech and guarantees the right to peaceful assembly, but will never tolerate any anarchic acts of vandalism or looting of property. He said that recent demonstrations have seen illegal acts of a serious nature that almost amount to subversion, even close to terrorism, so the military and police have been instructed to take the most severe measures against acts of vandalism against public facilities and private property in accordance with the law.
Prabowo also revealed that in order to show their determination to rectify the ranks of lawmakers and respond to public opinion, political parties have launched severe disciplinary procedures against relevant unscrupulous lawmakers, and asked all lawmakers to be careful in their words and deeds, and always put public opinion first. So far, four lawmakers have been suspended for their inappropriate words and deeds, which have aroused strong public dissatisfaction. Among them: Ahmad Sahroni publicly insulted protesters, Nafa Urbach improperly defended high allowances, and Uya Kuya and Eko Patrio were criticized for being out of touch with the masses for dancing during the parliamentary session. The Associated Press reported that "this is a rare concession [by the Indonesian government] in response to the rising public anger".
Based on local media reports, on September 1, more protests are expected to occur in many places across Indonesia. In order to prevent potential risks and ensure social order, the Jakarta police have set up multiple checkpoints in the capital region and joined forces with the military, provincial governments, religious leaders and community leaders to carry out large-scale joint patrols covering Jakarta and surrounding cities. action. Jakarta Police Chief Asep emphasized that the police have always aimed at "ensuring public safety to the greatest extent" and made every effort to ensure the security and stability of the capital. He said that the police are on standby at possible protest sites and communities and are ready to provide security protection to the public."We also encourage the public to actively maintain public order and safety and report any behavior that may disrupt public order."
It is reported that the protests that have lasted for many days have had a significant impact on Indonesian social life and people's travel. According to the Indonesian Travel Agents Association, people's demand for overseas air tickets has surged recently, and many people have chosen to go abroad temporarily or move for a short time because of concerns about the current political stability. In addition, in order to reduce risks, Jakarta authorities recommend that companies adopt a home office model. At the same time, many public facilities and tourist destinations in Jakarta were forced to temporarily close, including the National Library, several museums and large shopping malls.
According to the Indonesian newspaper Compass website, due to the domestic situation, Prabowo announced on August 30 that he would cancel his scheduled trip to China. In response, China Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun said at a regular press conference on September 1 that China has noticed changes in the domestic situation in Indonesia and believes that under the leadership of President Prabowo, the Indonesian government can properly handle the situation and restore stability to the domestic situation as soon as possible. China understands and respects the Indonesian government's adjustments to arrangements for China due to domestic needs.