Although conditions in Jakarta and several other regions have shown gradual improvement—with public transportation largely resuming after days of unrest—the situation remains fragile as further demonstrations are anticipated from student alliances and online driver groups. Civil society is encouraged to remain vigilant amid these uncertainties.
Amid this cautious recovery, Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung reassured residents that the capital is steadily returning to order following recent clashes involving unidentified individuals during protests. According to Kompas, Pramono confirmed that all public transportation services under the Jakarta provincial government—including Transjakarta, MRT, LRT, and Mikrotrans—had resumed operations as of Monday, September 1.
“To support residents, we have decided to provide free services on all modes of transport until September 8,” Pramono said.
He acknowledged that 22 Transjakarta bus stops were damaged by fire and vandalism during the unrest, with repairs scheduled for completion by September 8, including at Senen station, which sustained severe damage.
Pramono also highlighted the strong sense of solidarity demonstrated by Jakarta residents in helping safeguard the city. He noted how the “Jaga Jakarta” movement has now inspired similar initiatives across the country and emphasized that neighborhood leaders and local communities played a decisive role in maintaining stability.
Demonstrations Postponed
Despite signs of recovery, university student groups have made clear that public dissent is far from over. The All-Indonesia Student Executive Board (BEM SI) and its branches, which had initially planned a mass rally on September 2, later announced a postponement.
“Rather than forcing it now, we prefer to step back and ensure there will still be an action at the right time.” Said Muhammad Ikram, BEM SI Kerakyatan coordinator, as reported by Tempo.
The postponement, student leaders explained, was intended to ensure their movement remained focused and not exploited by other interests.
Similarly, BEM SI Central Coordinator Muzammil Ihsan told “We are preparing our steps carefully. We want to appear not only to demand but also to provide solutions for the nation.” Ihsan stressed that the decision was an act of prudence to preserve the movement’s integrity and prevent outside groups from diluting its purpose.
Underlying frustrations continue to fuel momentum. The demonstrations were initially triggered by parliamentary allowance increases but soon broadened to include labor and governance concerns. Earlier unrest escalated into riots, with the tragic death of 21-year-old online driver Affan Kurniawan intensifying public anger and prompting widespread mobilization among ride-hailing workers across multiple cities. BEM SI emphasized their readiness to resume demonstrations once conditions are deemed safer.
BEM SI Kerakyatan spokesperson Pasha Fazillah Afap reiterated: “We are not withdrawing. We remain committed to voicing the people’s concerns, but the timing will depend on when the situation becomes more conducive.”
Staying Safe Amid Uncertainty
With protests likely to continue, authorities and civic leaders are advising the public to remain alert. While transportation and city services are operating, the lingering risk of renewed unrest indicates that normalcy has not yet been fully restored. As Jakarta and other regions prepare for further mobilizations, residents are encouraged to exercise caution, verify information carefully, and avoid provocation.
Source: Kompas, Tempo, NetralNews
Photo Credit: Koran Sulindo
