Students hold “heading to bankrupt Indonesia” protests against prabowo’s policies

Friday 12 June 2026 - 12:00

Hundreds of students gathered in Indonesia’s capital Jakarta on Friday to protest government policies under President Prabowo Subianto, particularly recent decisions related to public spending and rising fuel prices.

The demonstrations, branded by organizers as “Heading to Bankrupt Indonesia,” saw university students marching toward the Bundaran HI landmark in central Jakarta. Protesters accused the government of prioritizing controversial spending programs while the cost of living continues to rise.

According to organizers, some demonstrators were prevented from reaching the main protest area by police and military personnel, although large groups still managed to assemble in key parts of the city.

Tensions have increased following a recent rise in gasoline prices, a move that comes after global oil price fluctuations and mounting fiscal pressure on the national budget. Critics argue that expanded government spending programs, including social initiatives and infrastructure plans, are contributing to economic strain.

Students carried banners demanding the cancellation of the fuel price increase and criticizing what they described as excessive government spending. Student representatives also called for reductions in fuel and food prices, as well as a review of major national programs they consider financially unsustainable.

Observers note that the protests reflect growing youth concern over inflation and economic policy direction in Southeast Asia’s largest economy.