The military deployment followed a wave of mass demonstrations reflecting public dissatisfaction with the House of Representatives (DPR) and, subsequently, the police.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Army (TNI AD) has decided to deploy soldiers from the Jakarta Regional Military Command (Kodam Jaya) to assist the National Police (Polri) in maintaining order and security during protests in the capital.

"We are fielding personnel from Kodam Jaya, which is responsible for the capital's security," Head of the TNI AD Information Office Brigadier General Wahyu Yudhayana told ANTARA in Jakarta, on Friday.





He underlined that the army would station troops at several vulnerable points, with the number of personnel adjusted to the police’s request and actual needs.





Furthermore, he assured the public that his soldiers would strictly adopt a humane approach while supporting the police in preserving order and security.





"All TNI AD soldiers on duty have been instructed to act persuasively and humanely, prioritize communication, and avoid repressive measures," Yudhayana stressed.





He also appealed to citizens to express their dissent peacefully without resorting to actions that might jeopardize public order.





"It is equally crucial for protesters to help maintain peace for the common good. Keep in mind that many residents depend on public facilities for their daily needs," he said.





The military deployment followed a wave of mass demonstrations reflecting public dissatisfaction with the House of Representatives (DPR) and, subsequently, the police.





A major rally took place at the Parliamentary Complex in Jakarta on Monday, August 25, where protesters demanded the dissolution of the DPR over what they viewed as underwhelming performance and excessive allowances for lawmakers.





Another protest on Thursday, August 28, saw crowds gather again at the parliament to demand stronger regulations on employment, wages, corruption, and elections, among other pressing matters.





Tensions escalated that night when Affan Kurniawan, an online motorbike taxi driver, was fatally struck by a police vehicle speeding through the crowd, as captured in a widely circulated video. Seven police officers inside the vehicle have since been placed under investigation.





The next day, President Prabowo Subianto offered condolences over the death, vowed to guarantee the welfare of Kurniawan’s family, and ordered a thorough and transparent investigation.





Meanwhile, Polri Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo visited the victim’s family and issued a public apology, pledging to address the case properly.

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Translator: Walda M, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Arie Novarina
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