Delivering his remarks at the Merdeka Palace on Sunday, the Head of State addressed a range of issues—from imposing strict sanctions on legislators to calling for a collective effort to safeguard national security.
“With regard to officers who recently committed errors or violations, the National Police is currently conducting an investigation. I have requested that this process be swift, transparent, and open to public scrutiny,” he stated.
The President was joined by former President Megawati Soekarnoputri; Chair of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Ahmad Muzani; Speaker of the House of Representatives (DPR) Puan Maharani; Speaker of the Regional Representative Council (DPD) Sultan Najamudin; and several party leaders, including Deputy Chairman of the Democrats Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono, PKS Secretary General Muhammad Khalid, Golkar Party Chairman Bahlil Lahadalia, PKB Chairman Muhaimin Iskandar, PAN Chairman Zulkifli Hasan, and NasDem Party Chairman Surya Paloh.
President Prabowo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upholding the people’s right to freedom of expression, in line with constitutional guarantees and international norms.
However, he emphasized that acts of anarchy, destruction of public property, looting, and attempts at treason are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
He further stated that party leaders had agreed to take internal disciplinary measures, including revoking the membership of certain legislators deemed to have made insensitive remarks about the situation.
Additionally, House leaders agreed to rescind several policies, including adjustments to lawmakers’ allowances, and to impose a moratorium on overseas working visits.
The President also urged the DPR to initiate immediate dialogue with community leaders, students, and civil society organizations to ensure that public aspirations are expressed peacefully.
Concluding his address, Prabowo called on all elements of the nation to uphold unity amid the current political climate.
“Let us safeguard our national unity. Indonesia stands on the brink of a revival—let us not allow ourselves to be divided. Express your aspirations properly and peacefully, without causing harm, without violence, without looting, without riots, and without damaging public facilities,” he urged.
The recent protests across Indonesia were primarily fueled by public outrage over a proposed monthly housing allowance of Rp50 million (about US$3,000) for members of parliament, which many considered excessive amid rising living costs and a weak economy.
The demonstrations escalated and became more violent after a video went viral showing a police tactical vehicle running over and killing a motorcycle taxi driver during a protest in Jakarta.
This incident sparked further anger over police brutality and a broader call for police and government reform.
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Translator: Andi, Kenzu
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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