JAKARTA June 12, 2026 — The Embassy of Malaysia in Jakarta has issued a public advisory urging Malaysian citizens to avoid areas affected by a major student-led demonstration taking place today in Central Jakarta.
The protest, organized by the Student Executive Board of the University of Indonesia (BEM UI) and allied groups under the banner “Menuju Indonesia Bangkrut” (Towards Indonesia Bankruptcy), is centered at Bundaran HI (Hotel Indonesia Roundabout) and Patung Kuda (Arjuna Wiwaha Statue). It is expected to disrupt traffic on key roads including Jalan MH Thamrin, Jalan Jenderal Sudirman, and Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat.
Organizers anticipate around 1,500 participants from various universities, including UI faculties, IPB University, Jakarta State Polytechnic, Pancasila University, Gunadarma University, UPN Veteran Jakarta, and student alliances such as the National Student Front (FMN).
Students are voicing strong criticism of the Prabowo Subianto administration’s economic policies and governance, with five main demands:
- Reduction of inefficient state spending and alleged corruption in government programs.
- Lowering prices of fuel (BBM, including Pertamax) and basic commodities amid rising costs and rupiah depreciation.
- Halt to the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program and the Red and White Village Cooperatives initiative.
- End to military involvement in civilian affairs.
- Greater accountability and policy evaluation by the government.
The demonstration began gathering momentum from around 10:00 WIB, with participants urged to wear black attire and yellow jackets.
In its official notice (posted in both Bahasa Malaysia/Indonesia and English), the Malaysian Embassy advised its citizens in or visiting Jakarta to:
- Monitor updates from Indonesian authorities and local media.
- Avoid protest zones to ensure safety.
- Refrain from any activities that violate local laws.
- Contact the embassy’s consular hotline at +6281380813036 for assistance.
The embassy emphasized that it is closely monitoring the situation.
Authorities have warned of potential heavy traffic congestion in the area and urged commuters to use alternative routes.
This protest reflects growing student discontent with economic pressures and certain flagship government programs less than two years into the current administration. More updates are expected as the demonstration unfolds throughout the day.
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