UGM Issues Series of Statements Regarding Violent Student Protest in Yogyakarta
At least six students were injured during the forced dispersal of a student protest at the Jendral Sudirman intersection, Gondokusuman, by a group claiming to be local residents. In response to the incident, Universitas Gadjaya Mada (UGM) has issued a stern condemnation of these actions.
UGM further stated that acts of violence, such as pitting students against local residents, are deeply concerning. The Vice Rector for Student Affairs, Community Service, and Alumni, Arie Sujito, emphasised that such violence harms all parties, particularly amidst the current economic crisis.
“I believe that attempts to pit students against community groups are a tactic that must not be used; what should actually happen is for the government to respond by improving policies,” Arie stated during a press conference at UGM on Wednesday (2/9/2026).
“I am worried that this could become a model; if this violence is allowed to persist, it could threaten anyone. Therefore, there is no tolerance for violent practices against anyone—whether students, journalists, or any mass organisations,” Arie added.
Condemning the violence, Arie noted that the attack on Tuesday (1/9) night, which left six students requiring treatment at Panti Rapih Hospital, could have been prevented. He pointed out that the police have a legal responsibility to protect both students and the general public.
In light of the incident, UGM plans to pursue legal action to address the violence inflicted upon its students. “We are currently preparing the process. Once again, the most important message is that whoever commits violence must be held accountable,” Arie revealed.
He also urged university leaders to consolidate efforts to protect students, who serve as an intellectual element of society. “Students are an intellectual group, activists with idealism and the sensitivity to respond to situations. Therefore, I hope university leaders will work together to protect these students,” he concluded.
Regarding the casualties, UGM Director of Student Affairs, Hempri Suyatna, confirmed that the six injured students included five from UGM and one from UNY. He noted that while they required medical attention, they had been discharged from the hospital by 12:30 AM.
The injured students—NA, MM, MT, and SK from UGM, along with ZF from UGM and MZ from UNY—suffered from trauma, shortness of breath, and physical injuries including lacerations to the forehead and lips, as well as bruising to the temples, abdomen, and head. Hempri noted that some injuries required stitches due to the severity of the blows and kicks sustained during the confrontation.