Theatrical Protest Colours Student Demonstration in Makassar

The Student Executive Body (BEM) of Makassar State University (UNM) declared that the Republic of Indonesia is currently in a moribund state due to numerous policies of President Prabowo Subianto that are not pro-people. Students held a demonstration in front of their campus, blocking the road by commandeering a container truck and burning tyres, causing congestion on Jalan AP Pettarani, Makassar, South Sulawesi.

In their action, the students criticised the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, which they consider a waste of state funds that should be allocated to the education and health sectors. “Regarding MBG, because it has become a controversial issue, it should be abolished,” said Acting President of BEM UNM, Nur Intan Maharani Ilyas, on Wednesday (17/6).

The students also highlighted the expansion of the military into public spaces and the Police Law, which they view as having a similar position to the TNI Law. “Education issues also involve the waste of state budget funds, including the MBG and the Merah Putih Cooperative which we firmly reject,” she added.

Beyond speeches, the students performed a theatrical act where two students wore photos of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka wrapped in bandages, symbolising the leaders’ moribund condition. “Seeing the condition of the nation today, it is as if we are dying, because there are so many populist government programmes that have absolutely no significant impact on the people. That is why we liken the Republic of Indonesia today to being moribund,” she explained.

Similar demonstrations were also held at other locations, including in front of the UMI campus on Jalan Urip Sumiharjo, the Muhammadiyah University of Makassar campus on Jalan Sultan Alauddin, and under the flyover on Jalan Urip Sumiharjo. As a result of the student protests, several roads experienced lengthy traffic jams, forcing motorists to seek alternative routes.