KSPSI Calls for Orderly Student Demonstration on 28 October

Jakarta (ANTARA) – The Central Executive Board of the Indonesian Trade Union Confederation (DPP KSPSI) has urged students and other members of the public planning to voice their views at a demonstration on 28 October 2026 to conduct it in an orderly, safe and peaceful manner.

“KSPSI respects the rights of every citizen, including students, to express their views in public in accordance with the laws and regulations,” KSPSI chairman Jumhur Hidayat said in a statement in Jakarta on Tuesday.

However, he said, KSPSI reminded demonstrators to act responsibly, avoid being provoked, refrain from violence and not damage public facilities or harm the wider public interest.

He said the government was currently highly receptive and open to public input. KSPSI considers the government’s openness to public feedback a positive space that should be protected collectively.

“Therefore, the expression of views should continue to prioritise peaceful means, deliberation and dialogue, rather than provocation or violence,” Jumhur said.

KSPSI also called on all parties, including security personnel, to adopt a persuasive and humane approach to maintaining order. It further urged the public not to spread hoaxes or information that could inflame tensions.

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has also called on the public to express their views peacefully, orderly and responsibly. National Police Public Relations Division chief Inspector General Johnny Eddizon Isir said in Jakarta on Tuesday that differing views and criticism were part of a healthy democracy.

He said the public should not hesitate to express their views, while continuing to use constructive means and avoiding being easily provoked by unverified information.

The University of Indonesia Student Executive Board (BEM UI) and various other groups are scheduled to hold a demonstration on Wednesday, 28 October. BEM UI’s rally will take place around the HI Roundabout in Central Jakarta.