Indonesia‘s capital, Jakarta, has seen several demonstrations this week against lawmakers, with protests now escalating across the country after the death of a ride-sharing driver who was hit by a police vehicle on Thursday night.
Indonesia’s top filmmakers, producers and actors have expressed their anger over the rider’s death and wider injustice on social media, as protests engulf several Indonesian cities, including Jakarta and Surabaya.
Tear gas and water cannons are also being fired at crowds, according to local reports.
“I want the world to know the situation in Indonesia, how corrupt the system is, and how doomed the people are,” said actor Omara N. Esteghlal, who starred in Joko Anwar’s The Siege At Thorn High, on his social media. “Our house of representatives (DPR) are not only insensitive, they are disgustingly corrupt. Their wages keep on increasing using taxpayers’ money, and what do the people get in return? Nothing.”
Angga Sasongko, founder and CEO of Visinema (Jumbo), posted on social media: “Silence in the face of injustice is a betrayal of humanity.” He added, “Cut the budget…Change the structure. Make them realize that they are civilians too.”
Demonstrations broke out this week over an announcement that Indonesia’s reigning politicians will be provided monthly housing allowances of around 50 million rupiahs (around $3,000) — nearly 10 times higher than Jakarta’s minimum wage.
The motorcycle ride-sharing driver was hit at the site of clashes near parliament, as police sought to disperse demonstrators.
Veteran actress Dian Sastrowardoyo added, “No voice deserves to be silence by violence. No life is worth risking to have a demand heard.”
Director Yosep Anggi Noen, who made 24 Hours with Gaspar and The Science of Fictions, said on Instagram and X: “Once again, darkness is happening in this country because of corrupt politics that is not on the side of people and justice.”
Comedian and actor Ernest Prakasa, posted the name of the deceased ride-sharing driver (Affan Kurniawan) on his Instagram, and wrote: “Remember his name, remember his service. Remember one thing: Choosing to remain silent is a waste of his death.”
On Friday afternoon, national police official Abdul Karim told reporters that authorities will detain seven police officers who were in the vehicle that hit Kurniawan, for 20 days, for a breach of ethics, and added that questioning is underway.
