10 Days Before Soeharto's Resignation: The Chronology of the May 1998 Riots

The May 1998 riots lasted approximately 10 days, triggered by the shooting of students from Trisakti University and culminating in the resignation of Indonesia’s second president, Soeharto. According to Kompaspedia.kompas.id, the first day began on 12 May 1998, when security forces shot dead students from Trisakti University who were conducting a peaceful protest. Four students lost their lives: Elang Mulia Lesmana, Heri Hertanto, Hafidin Royan, Alan Mulyadi, Hendriawan Sie, and Vero. This incident ignited public anger. From Trisakti, waves of demonstrations spread to various locations in Jakarta. On the third day, 14 May, the riots in Jakarta began to spread to major cities across Indonesia. On the fourth day, 15 May, the riots expanded to shopping centres. One of them was the Yogya department store in Klender, Jakarta. Inside the store, hundreds of people were found dead. On the fifth day, 16 May, the riots continued. Hundreds of people were again found dead at Cileduk Plaza. On the seventh day, 18 May, thousands of students occupied the Senayan parliamentary complex. MPR Chairman Harmoko called for Soeharto to step down. At that time, Wiranto, as ABRI Commander, stated that Harmoko’s demand lacked a legal basis. On the eighth day, 19 May, Soeharto promised to hold elections as soon as possible and stated he would not run again. He announced plans to form a reform committee. On the ninth day, 20 May, news circulated about a planned student long march from the parliamentary complex to Monas to commemorate National Awakening Day, but this plan did not materialise. The May 1998 riots represent one of the greatest tragedies in Indonesian history. “Based on Kompas reports, on 18 May 1998, the physical losses from the riots over two days between 13-14 May in Jakarta amounted to around Rp 2.5 trillion,” wrote Kompas’ research division.