UI student who scribbled on a policewoman's turban at Mabes Polri protest apologises

Universitas Indonesia (UI) has provided an explanation regarding a student who scribbled on a policewoman’s turban during a demonstration by BEM UI in front of the National Police Headquarters, Mabes Polri. The student involved has also offered an apology.

As reported, BEM UI staged a protest in front of Mabes Polri on Friday, 27 February 2026. In circulating video footage, a student is seen scribbling on the headscarf of a policewoman during the demonstration.

UI responded to the incident, expressing regret that there were unplanned incidents in the field. ‘From the video circulating on 28 February 2026, it was found that an individual who was not a UI student, but wore UI insignia and behaved inappropriately towards police officers,’ UI said in a statement on Thursday, 5 March 2026. ‘In addition, there was an act of scribbling on the clothing worn by the policewoman during the protest.’

The university has carried out internal clarification and summoned the person involved. It will provide guidance to the individual.

‘In relation to the incident, the university conducted a comprehensive internal clarification by summoning all involved to obtain a complete and balanced information. The process was conducted objectively, prioritising the principle of mentorship, to ensure the facts and determine further steps in accordance with university regulations.’

Based on the clarification, the student was identified by initials MRM. MRM admitted her fault. The student also issued an apology.

‘I, with full consciousness, offer my apology to T, the policewoman who is an officer of the Indonesian National Police affected by my actions during the protest. I realise that the behaviour was inappropriate and not in keeping with the ethical values and respectful attitude that should be upheld by UI students,’ said MRM.

MRM said the incident is a learning moment for her. She admitted regret over her actions.

‘This incident is an important learning opportunity for me to be more prudent in my conduct and in expressing my views in public. I offer sincere regret and commit to participating in the university’s mentorship process with full responsibility,’ added MRM.