Indonesian Protests Continue as Student Groups Weigh Next Steps on “17+8” Demands
Jakarta, Indonesia - Student and activist groups across Indonesia are strategizing their next moves following a week of widespread protests demanding notable governmental change, encapsulated in a list of “17+8” demands. The demonstrations, initially sparked by opposition to parliamentary allowances and perceived anti-people policies, have gained momentum and broadened in scope following a tragic incident during a late-August labour protest.
Muhammad Afif Rahreza, Chair of the All-Indonesia Student Executive Board (BEM SI) for the Jabodetabek-Banten region, stated that a period of consolidation is underway. “We are currently discussing the best course of action with representatives from various campuses,” Rahreza said in a statement on Sunday, September 7, 2025. “We will consolidate first, and than decide on the next steps.”
The University of Indonesia Student Executive Board (BEM UI) is also engaged in similar deliberations. Zayyid Sulthan Rahman, chair of BEM UI’s yellow faction, confirmed the group is evaluating options following the large-scale demonstration held at the end of August.
The protests initially began on August 25th, focusing on calls to reject excessive parliamentary benefits and address policies seen as detrimental to the Indonesian populace. however, the movement dramatically escalated on August 28th when Affan Kurniawan, an online motorcycle taxi driver, was fatally struck by a police tactical vehicle while making a delivery in Central jakarta’s Tanah Abang district.This incident ignited widespread public outrage, fueling further demonstrations that quickly spread beyond Jakarta to other regions throughout Indonesia. The protests have drawn diverse participation, including a significant demonstration on September 3rd, where hundreds of women marched to Parliament carrying banners proclaiming the “17+8 People’s Demands.”
The movement has also found a powerful voice online,gaining significant traction on social media. The colors pink and green have emerged
