Police Advise Avoiding Bundaran HI, Potential Traffic Jams Due to Today's Protest

The Traffic Directorate of the Metro Jaya Regional Police has advised motorists to avoid the Bundaran Hotel Indonesia (HI) area in Central Jakarta due to potential traffic congestion during a protest by student groups on Friday (12/6).

‘Information is provided regarding potential traffic density at the Bundaran HI location, Central Jakarta,’ stated a post on the @TMCPoldaMetro X account. The potential for traffic jams is also expected along the Sudirman-Thamrin road corridor.

Consequently, police are urging road users to seek alternative routes to avoid the congestion. ‘Motorists are advised to avoid these road sections or find alternative routes,’ the post continued. ‘Prioritise safety while driving, always follow the instructions and directions of officers on the ground for our collective security and smooth traffic flow, and obey the applicable regulations.’

Several Student Executive Bodies (BEM) from universities in the Greater Jakarta area (Jabodetabek) plan to take to the streets for a demonstration today. The Chairperson of the University of Indonesia’s BEM, Yatalathof Ma’shum Imawan, confirmed that all faculty BEMs from his campus will participate in the action. Other BEMs joining include those from IPB, Pancasila University, and Gunadharma University.

There are five demands being brought to the protest. First, urging the government to stop the waste of the state budget (APBN). Second, to lower the prices of staple goods and fuel (BBM). Third, to halt the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme and the construction of the Merah Putih Village Cooperatives. Fourth, to stop civilian militarisation, and fifth, demanding that President Prabowo Subianto stop evading and acknowledge the government’s mistakes.

In relation to the protest, Metro Jaya Police have deployed 4,151 joint personnel for security. Head of Public Relations of Metro Jaya Police, Commissioner Budi Hermanto, stated that the security measures are to ensure the activity proceeds safely, orderly, and without disrupting other public activities. ‘Metro Jaya Police respects the rights of citizens to express their opinions in public. The presence of personnel on the ground is to provide service and security so that the activity runs safely, orderly, and does not disturb other members of the community,’ Budi said in a statement on Friday.