The $30 million free meals initiative under fire

Student leaders argue that the government's spending priorities are misplaced, pointing to programs such as a free meals initiative, which they say is poorly managed and does not address the root causes of economic hardship. The free meals program, costing about 268 trillion rupiah (approximately $15 billion) for this year alone, is intended to alleviate poverty and malnutrition, but critics claim it is wasteful and ineffective.

According to the source, student leaders called for immediate cuts to these programs, lower prices for fuel and staple goods, and an end to what they described as the military's unwarranted role in civil governance.

The protest was largely peaceful, though there were sporadic clashes with security forces as some activists attempted to break through barricades.

32% fuel price hike sparks widespread discontent

The fuel price hike has exacerbated the cost of living for millions of Indonesians, already struggling with high inflation and a weakening rupiah, which hit a historic low of 18,000 against the U.S. dollar earlier in June.

As the source reports , the protest came after the prices of some fuel types jumped by 32% earlier that week, marking the first such increase since the United States launched its military campaign against Iran over three months prior.

The demonstration,organized by student groups, saw protesters gathering near the parliament building and the National Monument park after authorities blocked access to the city's main business district.

A familiar pattern from the 2019 crash

Economic experts warn that the fuel price hike and currency depreciation could trigger a deeper crisis if not addressed, while human rights groups have expressed concern over the potential for a violent crackdown on dissent.

As the sun set over Jakarta, the streets remained tense, with protesters vowing to continue their campaign until their demands are met.

Who is the unnamed buyer?

The government has not yet issued an official response to the protests, but the heavy police and military deployment suggests authorities are taking a hardline stance against further unrest .

According to the source, the protest on Friday was the latest in a series of demonstrations that have grown in intensity since last August, when violent clashes with security forces left at least 13 people dead.

Similar rallies were also held in other cities, including Bandung in West Java and Pontianak on Borneo island, signaling widespread discontent across the country.