JAKARTA: Hundreds of students and activists took to the streets in major Indonesian cities on Friday as part of the ongoing "Dark Indonesia" protests, voicing opposition to President Prabowo Subianto’s policies, including $19 billion in budget cuts that they argue are detrimental to essential services.
Clad in black, demonstrators braved the rain near Jakarta’s presidential palace, holding banners with slogans such as “the government is full of fools.” Some invoked Prabowo’s well-known pet cat, suggesting that if it could speak, it would oppose the policies as well.
These protests follow a series of similar demonstrations across the country throughout the week. The name "Dark Indonesia" reflects the perceived uncertainty and negative impact of the government's decisions, according to student leader Herianto.
Among the controversial measures is Prabowo’s initiative to provide free school meals, which is being partially funded by cutting $19 billion in government expenses. The reductions, which affect travel, consultancy, training, and office supplies, have sparked concerns that they may lead to increased tuition fees and negatively impact teacher welfare—claims that Prabowo’s administration denies.
In Surabaya, Indonesia’s second-largest city, hundreds rallied in a demonstration. The protest included a street performance where a participant dramatically rolled on the ground to symbolize poverty.
Students also criticized the expansion of military roles in civilian affairs and the lack of subsidies for cooking gas. “These policies undermine our rights as Indonesians,” said university student Ridho Anwari Arifin during the Jakarta protest.
The protests come just four months into Prabowo’s presidency, following his landslide election victory.
