I have recently completed the manuscript for a book entitled AKSI, the Fall of Suharto and Indonesian History. AKSI is the Indonesian word for "action" as in street protest action or in "aksi massa" - mass action. There is a little commentary on this phenomenon in Indonesia in my working papers “Recovering class consciousness after total defeat: "Memory, street protest, and Soekarnoism in contemporary Indonesia.” and in “Re-organisation’ of Mass Politics and the Weakened National Revolution in the Era of Neo-Liberal Globalisation”
One way to get some impression of the widespread and varied nation of aksi in contemporary Indonesia is by subscribing to Indonesia Round-Up which provides short news items on these aksi. The service takes reports from just a few Indonesian language websites so it is revealing only the tip of the ice-berg. But it is a useful connection with the state of society. I reproduce below a sample of the kinds of reports. You can obtain information on how to subscribe or just read them on the web by clicking here: INDONESIA ROUND-UP and scroll about one third to half-way down the page. tINDONESIA ROUND-UP is in the right hand column.
INDONESIA ROUND-UP AKSI reports - selection
New Order victims rock Komnas HAM
Around 100 families who were victims of human rights violations by the New Order regime of former President Suharto held a rally from the Proclamation Monument in Jakarta to the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) on May 30.
The protesters wore black robes and covered their faces with newspapers with the writing "Try Suharto" and "Sorry No, A Trial Yes". They also brought wooden gongs, which they played during the march as well as an iron cage with an effigy of Suharto inside it with a banner around its neck reading "Suharto Human Rights Criminal".
According to the public relations officer for the Victims of New Order Human Rights Violations, Mujianto, the action was held to demand that Komnas HAM fully investigate human rights violations, particularly the cases of the disappearance of activists in 1997-98. (Detik.com, 30/5/2006)
Students demand governor be investigated over corruption
Around 100 students and youths from East Kalimantan demonstrated at the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in Central Jakarta on May 30. They were demanding that the KPK investigate East Kalimantan governor Suwarna AS over an alleged corruption case involving 1 million hectares of palm oil land. Arriving at the KPK offices at around 12.30pm, they immediately started the action singing "Revolution, Revolution or Death" accompanied by shouts of "Viva Students!". Black banners were also unfurled above a vehicle with a sound system with the writing "Uphold the supremacy of the law, arrests and try the most corrupt governor in Indonesia Suwarna AS the governor of East Kalimantan".
In speeches the protesters urged the KPK to immediately investigate the corruption case and that the office of the prosecution and the police be transparent and not attempt to cover up the issue. The protest was watched over by around 25 police officers. After being received by a representative of the KPK, the protesters disbanded in an orderly manner. (Detik.com, 30/5/2006)
Fisherpeople protest pollution, demand compensation
Around 300 fisherpeople from the Jakarta Fishers Communication Forum (FKNJ) protested at the North Jakarta mayor's office on May 30. They were calling on the municipal government revoke the business licenses of factories that are discharging waste in the Cilincing, Marunda and Muara Tawar rivers. The protesters demanded that the government pay compensation for the financial losses they have suffered.
According to the demonstrators, over the last two years pollution on the coastal beaches of North Jakarta has been worsening and has resulted in a decline in the production levels of their green mussel farms.
"My green mussel pond has produced nothing since January", said Fatimah, one of the protesters. Fatimah said the factories border on their mussel ponds which support some 6,500 families. Before the rivers became polluted, production had reached 10 tons per season. They said that as a result of the recently failed season, they suffered losses of as much as 93 billion rupiah. (Tempo Interactive, 30/5/2006)
Nahdlatul Ulama demands FPI be disbanded
Members of the Islamic mass organisation Nahdlatul Ulama from the Cirebon area of West Java demonstrated on May 30 demanding that the Islamic Defenders Front (FPI), the Indonesia Mujahidin Council (MMI) and Hizhut Tahrir be disbanded. The demonstration was in response to last week's eviction of former President Abdurrahman Wahid alias Gus Dur during an event in the West Java town of Purwakarta. Tightly guarded by police, they condemned the actions against Gus Dur saying it did not reflect Islamic values. (Liputan 6, 30/5/2006)
Papuan activists protest anti-pornography law
Dozens of activists from the Papuan Traditional Arts Council (DKAP) protested recently against the draft law on pornography at the Papuan Regional House (DPRD) of Representatives in Jayapura. The protesters included student, religious figures and traditional leaders who believe that the law will kill off Papua's traditional attire, the penis gourd.
The protesters arrived at the DPRD in three busses. Uniquely, a number of the demonstrators wore penis gourds. They said that if the draft law is ratified it will result in the disappearance of the Papuan people's identity. Traditional residents of Wamena for example, can often be seen wearing penis gourds. (Liputan 6, 31/5/2006)
Hundreds of residents reject inauguration of regent
Around 300 residents from a number of villages in the Tebo regency of Jambi, East Nusa Tenggara, protested on May 31 against the inauguration of the newly reelected regent of Tebo, Madjid Muaz. According to the protesters, during his term as regent between 2001-2006 Muaz was involved in corruption, collusion and nepotism, specifically by appointing two of his daughters as government officials without having sat the state civil service entrance exam.
The protests marched as far as one kilometre to the regent's official residence however tight police security prevented them from entering. The action was supported by a number of members from the Tebo DPRD some of whom even joined in giving speeches. There has been a long-running dispute between the regent and the DPRD with assembly members even recommending that Muaz be dismissed. (Liputan 6, 31/5/2006)
Residents reject waste management plant
Residents from the Serang city in the Banten regency protested recently at the offices of the Banten regent. The protesters were demanding that the license to construct a waste management plant by the Cilegon city government be revoked. The residents said they were concerned that the quality of water in their area that is used for daily needs and irrigation will become polluted. (Liputan 6, 31/5/2006)
Makassar housewives protest against discrimination
Around 100 housewives protested in the South Sulawesi provincial capital of Makassar on May 31 over the quality of healthcare services provided by hospitals.
The housewives, who were from the People's Urban Poor Struggle Committee (KPRM), arrived at the South Sulawesi Health Agency at around 9.30am. Protesters said that hospitals discriminate against the poor citing the uneven distribution of cards guaranteeing health services for the poor (JPKMM).
In addition to this they also raised questions about the attitudes of hospital that are reluctant to provide free health services to the poor. “If a person is rich they get a good service. If it’s a poor person, they sometimes even get rejected for all sorts of reasons”, explained one of the protesters.
The housewives were received by officials from the Makassar Health Offices who attempted to provide and explanation to counter their complains. By 11.30am the debate between the protesters and the officials became heated with some of the housewives even jumping up onto desks and abusing the officials. The situation only calmed down after officials promised to register those people who had not obtained JPKMM cards. Protesters returned home at around 1.30pm. (Detik.com, 31/5/2006)
Makassar residents protest over cash subsidies
Hundreds of resident from the Kumuh area of Makassar demonstrated at the DPRD on June 1. They were protesting because they have not been registered to receive direct cash subsides. The protesters said that the suspect that certain individuals in the village administration and the National Statistics Agency (BPS) are manipulating data so that those who are receiving subsidies are families that are not actually poor. (Liputan 6, 1/6/2006)
Gus Dur supporters demand FPI be disbanded
Gus Dur supporters in Purwokerto protested again on May 1 demanding that the FPI be disbanded. They believe that the FPI is using Islam as a cover to commit acts of anarchy. The demonstrators also demanded that police immediately investigate actions engineered by the FPI because they are creating anxiety among the public. (Liputan 6, 1/6/2006)
Students protest against sand dredging in Banten
Students demonstrated again on June 1 against the dredging of sand from the waters of the North Banten Gulf because they are convinced that it is damaging the marine ecosystem. The protesters were demanding that the regent of Serang, Taufik Nuriman, revoke the sand dredging license. As in earlier demonstrations, the protesters again closed off roads as well as hijacking two vehicles owned by the local government. (Liputan 6, 1/6/2006)
Residents demand arrest of mayor over corruption
On June 1, residents and anti-corruption activists in South Sumatra demonstrated demanding that the mayor of the Prabumulih regency, Rahman Djalili, be detained and suspended from duties. Djalili is a suspect in a corruption case involving the purchase of land for an office and hospital valued at 3.3 billion rupiah. The head of Prabumulih prosecutors’ office, Ferdinan Pangabean, has also been accused of receiving bribes during the investigation of the case. Djalili remains free even though the South Sumatra chief prosecutor has issued an arrest warrant for his detention. (Liputan 6, 1/6/2006)
Palu residents blockade road
More than 100 residents from the Duyu village in the West Palu sub-district of Central Sulawesi blockaded the entrance to the Bukit Nirwana housing estate using lengths of wood and stones. The June 1 action was protesting the failure of the housing estate developers to pay the residents compensation for their land. (Liputan 6, 1/6/2006)
Division of Tana Toraja regency rejected by students
Students from the Tana Toraja regency in Central Sulawesi held an angry protest at the South Sulawesi DPRD in Makassar on June 1. The protesters’ anger was trigged by an agreement by assembly members to split up the Tana Toraja regency. According to the demonstrators, the move is nothing more than an endeavour to divide up power among the political elite and will only create disunity within traditional Tana Toraja society and create conflicts between the people. (Liputan 6, 2/6/2006)
Poor people protests over cash subsidies in Cirebon
Hundreds of poor people went to the to the Cirebon regency BPS in West Java on June 2 to protest because they still had not received cards for direct cash subsidies. Even those who have received cash subsidies said that the money was incomplete saying that deductions had been made from the 300,000 rupiah per three months on the grounds that other poor people had not received assistance. (Liputan 6, 2/6/2006)
Unity in Diversity Alliance holds march
Around 200 demonstrators from the Unity in Diversity Alliance (ABTI) held a cultural rally through the major thoroughfares of Jl. Sudiarman and MH Thamrin in Jakarta on May 3. The rally presented a variety of arts from across Indonesia including traditional dances from Bali, Reog Ponorogo, Achenese dance and Debus Banten.
The rally, which continued for around three hours using 25 trucks and a convoy of motorbikes, started at the South Jakarta area of Semanggi then proceeded to the Hotel Indonesia roundabout and on to the National Monument.
The cultural rally took up the theme “Pancasila is Our Home” saying that maintaining diversity is the only way to maintain the identity of the Indonesian nation. ABTI spokesperson Ratna Sarumpaet said that the Indonesian nation must continue to promote attitudes that respect diversity and tolerance. Indonesia is a composite nation and therefore cannot be monopolised by particular political or religious groups she said. (Tempo Interactive, 3/6/2006)
Papuan activists protest at Plaza 89
Dozens of activist from the West Papua Pepera Front protested again at the Plaza 89 Building in South Jakarta on June 5 demanding the closure of PT Freeport Indonesia.
During the action they demanded the unconditional release of those arrested during the earlier protests at Plaza 89, Abepura and the 62-63 military incident, for an immediate tripartite dialogue between the Papuan people, the Indonesian government and PT Freeport and for the opening up of democratic space and end to TNI (Indonesian military) and police repression in West Papua.
As a result of the protest the flow of traffic in the direction of Menteng was blocked as the slow-lane that passes in front of Plaza 89 was closed. The action was tightly guarded by police who formed up in front of the building in two ranks in anticipation of an attack on the offices. (Detk.com, 5/6/2006)
Demonstration in Manado rejects mining companies
Around 500 people from the Social Alliance Against Mining Waste (AMMLT) commemorated World Environment Day in the North Sulawesi city of Manado on June 5. The protest was organised by the North Sulawesi Indonesian Environment Forum (Walhi) to oppose the operations of two mining companies, PT Meares Soputan Mining and PT Hamparan Pasir Besi. They also demanded that PT Newmont Minahasa Raya be prosecuted for polluting the Buyat Bay.
"We don't want a repeat of the Buyat case", said one of the protesters referring to the operations of Meares Soputan Mining. The alliance, which also presented a statement to the North Sulawesi governor, said that they want an end to the use of submarine tailing disposal and the disposal of mining wastes into the sea. (Tempo Interactive, 5/6/2006)
Hundreds of ceramic workers demonstrate in Probolinggo
Hundreds of workers from a number of ceramic factories in the East Java town of Probolinggo protested on June 5 over the recent dismissal of fellow factory workers. They blockaded the main highway between Probolinggo and Lumajang resulting in a two kilometre traffic jam. (Liputan 6, 5/6/2006)
Makassar students continue protests against university
Student protests against a prohibition on demonstrations by the Makassar State Islamic University rectorate in South Sulawesi continued on June 5 with students setting fire to tyres and blockading roads. The students say that the policy "amputates" social control and the democratic process on campus. (Liputan 6, 5/6/2006)
Police clash with public transport drivers
Hundreds of drivers from the Sriwijaya University Public Transport Trade Union (SBTA) clashed with police in the South Sumatra city of Palembang on June 5. As a result of the incident four drivers and a police officer were injured and two of the protesters were arrested.
The incident occurred when drivers were protesting at the South Sumatra public relations offices demanding changes to existing bus routes. Because the head of the office was not prepared to meet with the drivers they responded by blockading the road causing a three-hour traffic jam. When the protesters ignored a call by police to leave, police officers tried to forcibly disband the protest and a clash broke out. (Liputan 6, 5/6/2006)
Fisherpeople blockade road in North Jakarta
On June 6, around 1000 fisherpeople from the Marunda, Cilincing and Lagoa areas of North Jakarta held a long march to the industrial zone where the company PT Boga Sari is located. The protesters said they planned to blockade the Cilincing highway and would hold a demonstration in front of the company offices.
The fisherpeople started the action in the Cilincing area at 9am. As a result traffic in the area was paralysed with traffic jams estimated to be as long a five kilometres. "We will blockade all the roads", shouted the protesters. (Tempo Interactive, 6/6/2006)
Makassar students oppose fee increase
A demonstration by students from the Makassar Bongayya College of Economic and Management ended in chaos on June 8. The demonstrators were opposing a 20 percent increase to education management contributions. The students were also protesting the rectorate for allowing students to purchase credits above the 24-semester credit system, a policy they say is the same as the commercialisation of education and will cause financial losses to students. (Liputan 6, 8/6/2006)
Residents protest diversion of river channel
Hundreds of family heads from the Dead River village in Medan, North Sumatra, almost clashed with housing construction workers on the Deli River flood plain at Gang Merdeka on June 7. The incident took place shortly after they had been protesting over a diversion of the Deli River channel being carried out by developers.
During the action they hijacked heavy equipment owned by the developers and brought construction activities to a halt. They also pelted construction workers with rocks and wood. According to the protesters, the diversion that is being carried out for the expansion of land for luxury housing, will threaten the safety of 360 families living along the river edge. They also said that it would cause their area to be susceptible to flooding. (Liputan 6, 7/6/2006)
Human rights victims celebrate Suharto's birthday
Cakes and candles with the figure 85 adorned the South Jakarta District Court during a celebration of former President Suharto's 85th birthday organised by the Committee for the Victims of Human Rights Violations (KPP-HAM) on June 8.
As part of the event, a male activists appeared bare chested with his entire body covered with a picture of Suharto. Using his mouth, he wrote the words "Happy birthday, have a long and healthy life, so that [you] can be brought to justice quickly" on a 3x1 metre white cloth. There was also a recycle symbol upon which was written the years Suharto committed human rights violations: 1965, 1974, 1989, 1991, 1996 and finally 1998.
Protesters also wore a variety of bamboo head coverings with pictures of the victims of human rights violations – one of which was human rights activist Munir. A wreath of red and yellow flowers with the writing "Families of the Victims Bring Suharto to Justice" was also handed over to the public prosecutor following a hearing of a pre-trial suit against Suharto. (Detik.com, 8/6/2006)
Students give Suharto a gift for his 85th birthday
A seat made of black coloured steel with a bamboo frame photograph of Suharto and a wreath of flowers with the writing "I'm ready to be tried". This was the gift that was presented to Suharto by students on his 85th birthday. The students also sent a wreath of flowers with the writing "Happy 85th birthday, get well quickly so you can be tried soon".
The action was organised by around 20 people from the Try Suharto Movement (GAS) who held a march from the Suropati Gardens toward Suharto's residence on Jl. Cendana. GAS is made up of activists from the Student Action Front for Reform and Democracy (FAMRED), the Socialist Student Movement (GMS), the University of Indonesia Student Action Front (FAM), the National Student League for Democracy (LMND) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PRD).
Upon arriving at Jl. Teuku Umar they were blocked by around 100 police. As a result they were forced to halt but still gave speeches demanding that the ruler of the New Order regime be tried. "We are going to Cendana to give a gift to Suharto", said Lalu Herman from LMND which was greeted by shouts of "Try Suharto, if not, SBY-JK resign". (Detik.com, 8/6/2006)
Anti-Suharto protesters arrested in Jakarta
Around 20 students who were protesting on Jl. Teuku Umar in Central Jakarta were arrested by police on June 9 for violating the 1998 law on freedom of expression.
The students, who came from the Try Suharto Movement, had intended to go to Suharto's residence on Jl. Cendana but were blocked by around 100 police on Jl. Teuku Umar.
At 5pm, police ordered the students to leave. After three warnings however, the students had still not dispersed and instead started singing "not afraid anymore, not afraid anymore!". Around 100 police officers then moved in and forced 20 or so students into a police holding van who were then taken to the Central Jakarta district police station. (Kompas Cyber Media, 9/6/2006)
No end to demands for Suharto to be tried
Protests demanding that Suharto be tried continued on June 10 when dozens of students from the People's Hall for the Trial of Suharto (Brantas) demonstrated in front of the Christian University of Indonesia in Central Jakarta.
In a speech, Brantas action coordinator Riki called for Suharto and his cronies to be tried and for President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Vice President Jusuf Kalla to resign because had failed to carry out reform. "Suharto and his cronies should be arrested and their assets must be surrendered to the state [and used] for the interests of the people", he said.
Riki also said that issuing the order to end the investigation into the Suharto case demonstrated the failure of the Yudhoyono government. Giving amnesty to the ruler of the New Order regime is a betrayal by Yudhoyono and Kalla against the Indonesian people and the spirit of the 1998 reform movement.
Aside from calling for Suharto to be tried and his assets sized, Brantas also condemned repressive actions by security forces and accused the Yudhoyono government of bringing suffering to the Indonesian people. They also called on all Indonesian people to unite to resist the Yudhoyono regime and the New Order. (Detik.com, 10/6/2006)
Students protest over corruption in Riau
Dozens of students and youths from the Youth Movement for the Elimination of Riau Corruption (GPPKR) and the Anti Corruption Students Union (Kampak) demonstrated at the offices of the Riau chief public prosecutor in the provincial capital of Pekanbaru on June 9. As well as protesting the poor performance of the Riau public prosecutor they also set fire to a black bier to symbolise their disappointment with delays in corruption cases in Riau.
In speeches the protesters said that the Riau chief public prosecutor has been unable to carry out his function of arresting corrupters in Riau. The evidence for this is that out of the many suspects that have been named not one has been arrested.
"We see that the Riau chief public prosecutor has gone into suspended animation in carrying out his duties. Because not one Riau corrupter has been thrown into jail", said action coordinator Andi during a break in a speech.
The students said that if the prosecutor's office continues to be unable to arrest and jail the corrupters they will give the chief prosecutor a gift of a hen. "The hen will represent students' disappointment with the performance of the Riau chief public prosecutor", said one of the protesters. (Media Indonesia, 10/6/2006)
Residents protest inauguration of Tuban regent
Hundreds of people from the Tuban People's Forum (FRT) demonstrated at the Tuban Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) in East Java on June 9. They were calling on the DPRD to cancel the inauguration of recently elected Tuban regent and deputy regent Haeny Relawati and Lilik Suhardjono because an appeal submitted to the Supreme Court over the election of regional heads is still being heard. (Liputan 6, 10/6/2006)
Fisherpeople protest over pollution in North Jakarta
For the second time now, hundreds of fisherpeople from Cilincing and Marunda in North Jakarta protested at Bogasari Flour Mills in Tanjung Priok on June 9. The fisherpeople, who come from the Jakarta Fisherpeople's Communication Forum (FKNJ) were demanding that the corn flour company take responsibility for the pollution that has been damaging North Jakarta beaches.
The fisherpeople said the pollution is being caused by waste from the Bogasari factory and has killed off their green mussel and fish farms located in the vicinity of the beaches. The company has denied that it has contributed to the pollution saying that other companies that use chemicals are responsible.
The demonstrators said that they would continue to protest until the company pays material compensation of 2 billion rupiah. Conversely, the company has said it will sue the fisherpeople if they continue their protests on the grounds that they have damaged the company's good name and disrupted the operations of the factory. (Liputan 6, 10/6/2006)
Residents accuse newly elected regent of corruption
Hundreds of residents from the Central Tapanuli district in North Sumatra have demanded that the government cancel the inauguration of newly elected regent Tuani Lumbantobing that is to be held on June 12. They accused Pohan and the deputy regent of colluding with the local National Elections Commission. The resident's demands were conveyed during a protest at the offices of the North Sumatra governor on June 9. (Liputan 6, 10/6/2006)
Residents go on rampage over unpaid cash subsidies
Dozens of residents from the village of Pappolo ran riot at Bone regional offices of the National Statistics Agency (BPS) in South Sulawesi on June 10. The angry protesters smashed office windows because the BPS had not entered their names as recipients of direct cash subsidies whereas they had been declared eligible to receive the funds when they were registered by village officials. The demonstrators finally calmed down after a BPS official promised to look into their complaint. (Liputan 6, 10/6/2006)
Attorney General's visit to Semarang greeted with protests
The arrival of Attorney General Abdul Rahman Saleh in the East Java provincial capital of Semarang was greeted by a student protest at the chief public prosecutor's offices on June 10. The protesters were demanding that the public prosecutor be serious in handling local and national corruption cases including the Suharto case. The students also said they were disappointed by the Attorney General's order to stop the investigation into Suharto, which they said went against the mandate of reform. (Liputan 6, 10/6/2006)
Residents plant banana trees in middle of road
Residents from the North Samarinda sub-district of East Kalimantan planted banana trees in the middle a road at the village of Pelita on June 10. Residents held the action to protest the poor state of the road that should have been repaired by the local government. Because the road was full of banana trees, four wheeled vehicles were unable to pass. The protesters said they were determined to defend the trees until the Samarinda municipal government carries out the repairs. (Liputan 6, 10/6/2006)
South Kalimantan Veterans League demands compensation
Hundreds of members of the South Kalimantan Veterans League and their families protested in the South Kalimantan provincial capital of Banjarmasin on June 11. They were demanding compensation from the local government for their homes and land in Martapura, Banjar regency, which were taken over for the construction of a Haj embarkation building and a mall. (Liputan 6, 11/6/2006)
Victims of Ambon riots demand compensation funds
Thousands of displaced people who were victims of the Ambon riots became angered during a protest at the Maluku Public Works Office on June 13. They accused the office of fooling them over delays in the payment of compensation funds valued at 1.8 million rupiah. The public works office had earlier promised to immediately disburse the compensation funds for repairs to the resident's houses. (Liputan 6, 13/6/2006)
South Kalimantan truck drivers strike
Fifty drivers of trucks transporting basic goods and construction materials bound for the East Java provincial capital of Surabaya went on strike at the Trisakti Banjarmasin Port in South Kalimantan on June 13. The strike only ended after the state-own port management company Pelindo placed a temporary cancellation on government fees. According to Pelindo the fees were based on a decision issue by the director of PT Pelindo. (Liputan 6, 13/6/2006)
Victims of river abrasion protest in Cirebon
Hundreds of residents from the village of Rawa Urip in the Kalibangka Block demonstrated at the Pangenan sub-district in the West Java regency of Cirebon on June 13. The protesters were demanding that the government pay attention to their problems they are facing as they had already lost a number of homes as a result of abrasion to the Cimanis River. As a result of the abrasion, which has now been going on since 1998, seventeen of resident's homes have been damaged and dozens of others are under threat. (Liputan 6, 13/6/2006)
Lebak residents demand connection to electricity grid
Residents in the Lebak regency of Banten provinces blockaded a road in protest over the Banten provincial government's sluggishness in providing electricity to four villages in the Penggarangan sub-district of Lebak. The protesters said they had repeatedly submitted requests for connection to the electrical grid but to this day, some 700 families living in the villages have yet to receive electricity. (Liputan 6, 13/6/2006)
Pulo Aceh residents protest Catholic Relief Services
Hundreds of tsunami victims from the Lampuyang village in the Pulo Aceh sub-district of Greater Aceh protested at the representative offices of the Catholic Relief Services in Banda Aceh on June 13.
The head of Lampuyang village, Muhammad Ismi, said that they had come to the CRS office in Banda Aceh to demand that CRS fulfil its commitment to build some 300 houses in their village. "We want to know if the CRS will build the houses or not", said Abubakar, one of the residents. "Don't just make promises", he said.
In response to the resident's complaints, CRS Aceh director Scott T. Chambell admitted that there had been delays in the construction of the houses but this was because the CRS was looking for a new contractor to do the work. Chambell added that the CRS is still committed to constructing the houses. (Aceh Kita, 13/6/2006)
Tanah Karo residents protest plans to slaughter livestock
Hundreds of Tanah Karo residents in the North Sumatra provincial capital of Medan protested by drinking chicken blood in front of the offices of the North Sumatra governor on June 13. The action was in protest over plans to destroy livestock in Tanah Karo after the spread of Avian Flu resulted in the death of seven residents in May.
The residents said that the order to destroy all livestock in Tanah Karo would cause significant financial losses to traders and breeders. Moreover they said, the health department and the World Health Organisation had yet to prove the origin of the Avian Flue virus that killed the seven residents of Kubu Simbelang village.
A representative of the governor said that the destruction of the birds was the only alternative in order to contain the spread of the virus. He also added that they would be given compensation. The protesters however refused to accept his offer and in addition to drinking the chicken blood also fried dozens of chickens, which were then offered to government officials to eat. (Liputan 6, 14/6/2006)
Aceh students protest over corruption
Around 100 students from the South Aceh Social Concern Alliance (AMPAS) held a protest at the offices of the governor and the Aceh chief public prosecutor in Banda Aceh on June 15. The were demanding that an investigation be conducted into the growing number of corruption cases in South Aceh.
Arriving at the governor's office at 9.30am, the students took turns in giving speeches saying that although corruption has been going on in South Aceh for some time now, not one case has been solved or brought before the courts.
"We hope that the governor's commitment to wipe out corruption will really be carried out. Don't just talk about it in the mass media, we want evidence from you. If not we will return with even more demonstrators", said action coordinator Zulfikar.
The demonstrators did not come empty handed. "We have brought strong evidence of the regent's involvement in a number of corruption cases in South Aceh. We hope that you will immediately investigate these cases", said one of the speakers.
Following this, Zulfikar and the chairperson of the South Aceh Students Association Sudirjo, handed over a dossier of evidence including corruption cases involving deductions to block grant funds and mark ups in infrastructure improvement projects. After meeting with regional secretary Husni Bahri TOB, Bahri said that they would send a team from the Regional Monitoring Agency to South Aceh to investigate the students' report. (Aceh Kita, 15/6/2006)
Anti-Debt Coalition protests CGI meeting
The Anti-Debt Coalition has continued its protests against the government's plan to submit a request for new loans from the Consultative Group on Indonesia (CGI). During an action on June 13 the protesters warned the government that over the decades the foreign debt burden on the state has continued to accumulate.
Demonstrations by the coalition have been becoming more frequent in the lead up to a meeting between the government and foreign lending institutions that will take place on June 15. Over the last three years, total government loans from the CGI have reached US$ billionmade of US$3.3 billion in bilateral loans and US$5.7 billion in multilateral loans. (Liputan 6, 14/6/2006)
Anti-CGI protesters demonstrate in Jakarta
Dozens of protesters from the People's Alliance Against the CGI demonstrated in front of the Bank Indonesia Building on Jl. Thamrin in Central Jakarta on June 15. They were demanding that the government rejects new loans, cancel the existing debt and dissolves the CGI because foreign loans have not improved the welfare of ordinary people.
The protest was held in conjunction with a meeting between 21 donor countries and eight international financial institutions in Jakarta. The government plans to submit a request for new loads valued at US$2.53 billion that is made up of US$1.53 billion for project loans and US1 billion for loans programs. (Liputan 6, 15/6/2006)
Demonstrators demand government stops accepting new loans
Demonstrations against accepting new loans from the CGI also took place in Medan on June 15. Actions were held at the Majestik roundabout and the Regional House of Representatives (DPRD). The protesters were urging President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Vice President Jusuf Kalla to resolve the long-term debt and to stop accepting new loans. (Liputan 6, 16/06/2006)
Transmigrants demand repatriation
Hundreds of transmigrants from the village of Pusanggula in the South Konawe regency ran riot during a dialogue at the South Sulawesi Provincial Labour and Transmigration Office in the city of Kendari on June 17. The protesters kicked over desks and attacked transmigration officials.
The incident was trigged by a transmigration official who suggested that they return to their transmigration site, whereas the protesters were demanding to be repatriated to Java because the transmigration site has been inundated by one metre floods since early June.
The 140 transmigrants are currently staying at the West Sulawesi DPRD building and say they will remain there as they are determined not to return to the transmigration site. (Liputan 6, 17/6/2006)
Students clash with police in Bone
Dozens of students from the Indonesian Islamic Students Movement (PMII) in South Sulawesi clashed with police in Bone on June 16. The incident occurred when the students were protesting on the grounds of the Bone municipal police headquarters.
The demonstration was triggered by an incident that occurred the day before when a student was given a ticket for a traffic violation. The students condemned the actions by police who they said had harassed the student.
Police were unable to contain their emotions when students forced their way into the grounds of the police headquarters and raised their organisation's flag. A clash was unavoidable. A number of students were injured during the incident. Fortunately, the clash was diffused when one of the police officers was able to pursuade his colleges to fall back. (Liputan 6, 17/6/2006)
Workers blockade PT Arnott Indonesia
Around 1,000 PT Arnott Indonesia workers from the All Indonesia Workers Union (SPSI) have been protesting since yesterday against the dismissal of a union leader and 14 other workers. PT Arnott Indonesia is currently restructuring the company in order to improve efficiency.
Sutopo, a worker from the production section, said that the worker protest turned into a massive demonstration after a SPSI union official from the advocacy division, Petrus Sarian, was also sacked. Since then negotiations with the company have stalled. (Tempo Interactive, 17/6/2006)
South Sumatra residents demand return of land
Around 500 people from the villages of Talang Nangka and Jermun held a demonstration in front of the offices of the South Sumatra governor in Palembang on June 19. They were demanding that land in the area of the village that had been seized by a company for a palm oil plantation be returned to the people.
At around 1pm they began gathering in front of the Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) then marched to the governor's office. "We are asking the government to return the land that we work in the area of the village. The land was taken by PT Persada Sawit Mas to be turned into a palm oil plantation, without prior discussion with residents. We are also asked that the 15 people that were arrested after a demonstration in early June be released", said action coordinator Mahudan.
A government official who promised to facilitate a meeting between the residents, PT Persada Sawit Mas and the governor received representatives of the protesters. As of late afternoon the protesters were still demonstrating in front of the governor's office. (Kompas Cyber Media, 19/6/2006)
Papuan students protest in Jakarta
For the umpteenth time, on June 20 dozens of Papuan students forced their way into the department of home affairs building in Jakarta. They were demanding that the minister for home affairs, M. Ma'ruf, give official approval the election of the Papuan governor and vice governor, Barnabas Suebu and Alex Hesegem.
An argument even broke out with security personnel when the students demanded to meet directly with Ma'ruf. "This is what Jakarta people are like, they don't want to resolve Papua's problems, if it's like this it's better for Papua to separate from NKRI [Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia]", exclaimed one of the demonstrators.
In the end however, they were given permission to convey their demands from the building's press conference room. Before doing this, they even changed costumes, putting on traditional Papuan cloths as well as Cendrawasih feather hats.
"We ask the central government to be explicit and serious in paying attention to the problems in Papua. Don't allow Jakarta political interests to take advantage of the political instability in Papua", said action coordinator Laus DC Rumayom. (Detik.com, 20/6/2006)
Manado students protests neoliberal policies
Dozens of students protested at the Manado Convention Center building in South Sulawesi on June 20. The action, which took place at the location of the Indonesian Economics Scholars Association (ISEI) Congress, was protesting government policies that are inclined towards neoliberalism, which they say are designed by the ISEI congress. (Liputan 6, 20/6/2006)
Earthquake victims in Yogyakarta demonstrate over aid
Around 175 victims of the Central Java earthquake from the village of Tamanmartani in the Kelasan sub-district of Sleman held a demonstration on June 20. They were protesting because they have not been registered to receive relief aid. They also said that the aid distribution has been unfair.
One of the protesters, Suwarno, said that more than 150 families lived in their village but only 13 had received assistance in the form of rice and basic foods. "The ones who got assistance were only those who's homes collapsed," said Suwarno. Whereas all of the residents of the village were victims of the earthquake. Moreover, Vice President Jusuf Kalla said that all of the victims would receive assistance. "The reality is that the distribution has been unfair", he said. (Tempo Interactive, 20/6/2006)
Farmers clash with police in Lombok
One farmer has been reported wounded in yet another clash between farmers and police in Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. The clash occurred on June 21 when local government officials arrived at the village of Tanak Awu and began taking measurements and setting out stakes on agricultural land that is the subject of a dispute between Tanak Awu farmers and airport operator PT. Angkasa Pura II.
The officials arrived escorted by around 10 trucks of Mobile Brigade officers, hundreds of police and 50 members of the vigilante squad Pamswakarsa. They also brought a panzer and water cannon and a helicopter could be seen circled overhead.
"During the incident a farmer was finally arrested, beaten and shot on the spot and fell unconscious, his right foot was bleeding", said Indonesian Farmers Federation (FSPI) secretary general Henry Saragih in a press release received by Detik.com on June 22.
The regional government and PT Angkasa Pura II have for some time been planning to build an airport on land which covers the Tanak Awu village. During the process however, there was a disagreement between the residents and the government has been trying to evict the residence since 1997.
Saragih also said that the farmers had long been experiencing acts of terror and intimidation that culminated on September 18 last year when police forcibly broke up a meeting of farmers that was organised at the Tanak Awu village. During the incident police fired on the farmers resulting in 27 people being injured by gunshot wounds. (Detik.com, 22/6/2006)
Housewives demand free birth certificates
The cost of a birth certificate is becoming an increasing burden for residents in the East Java provincial capital of Surabaya. Bringing their children with them, some 50 housewives demonstrated at the Surabaya DPRD on June 21 demanding that birth certificates be issued free.
The action, which organised by the Surabaya Spernkali Residents Association and the Surabaya Savings Group (KTS), proceeded peacefully. "The reality on the ground is that the cost of obtaining a birth certificate can be too much. For example, when Mrs. Sodia went to get a birth certificate for her grandchild [she] had to pay 50,000 rupiah", said KTS coordinator Nur Rofiah in a speech. (Detik.com, 22/6/2006)
Students demand investigation into corruption case
Sick of corruption cases not being investigated, 30 students from the group South-East Sulawesi Students Against Corruption (MAK) demonstrated at the offices of the Attorney General on June 23. They were urging the Attorney General to order the South-East Sulawesi prosecutor's offices to investigate a suspected corruption case involving a project to expand and improve the quality of junior high school education.
The action started at 10am with speeches in front of the Attorney General's office. "There are a number of schools that have not been given typewriters and stenciling machines. It is because of this that we are demanding legal justice", shouted Martono during one of the speeches.
According to Martono, 3 billion rupiah in funds were obtained to procure office equipment for a number of schools but as it turns out the stenciling machines were of poor quality and unevenly distributed. "A BPKP [Financial and Construction Supervisory Agency] audit found indications that this project has cost the state losses of 357 million rupiah", he said. After around 30 minutes, 10 representative were able to meet with Attorney General staff members. (Detik.com, 23/6/2006)
Bandung residents demand free schooling
Dozens of residents in the West Java provincial capital of Bandung held a protest at the DPRD on June 23 demanding free education for the poor. "The government's socialisation about education for the poor is vary minimal", said Hani Purwanti, the manager of TK Al Ibadah who took part in the demonstration.
According to Purwanti, the number of poor people in Bandung is continuing to grow. The education quota for the poor however remains at just five percent and this only prioritises those residents living in the vicinity of schools. "The bureaucratic procedures to register poor students is also extremely difficult. Out of eight children that I have registered two of them were rejected because of delays", said Purwanti.
Like other demonstrations, the protesters that included small children, brought a number of posters with messages such as "The poor and destitute must have schools", "Fee free schools for the poor". (Detik.com, 23/6/2006)
Acehnese demand corruption cases be acted on
Following recent protests by hundreds of South Aceh students in Banda Aceh demanding that the chief public prosecutor investigate corruption cases in the regency, on June 22 it was the Tapaktuan state prosecutor's turn to be the target of a demonstration by residents from a number of sub-districts in the regency.
The residents, who came from the South Aceh Social Forum (Forpemas) that was established by student groups, non-government organisations and fisherpeople, arrived at the South Sumatra governors house at around 1pm after holding a march though the main streets of Naga city.
Like the students in Banda Aceh, the protesters demanded that the state prosecutor fully investigate a number of suspected cases of corruption in South Aceh. Among others they cited the procurement of 40 tractors, markups in the purchase of stone crushers and other heavy machinery purchased by the regional government departments as well as a scandal over 2002 education funds that is currently being investigated by the Tapaktuan state prosecutor.
After meeting with the chief prosecutor, the protesters returned to the Tapaktuan bus terminal and disbursed. The action that was tightly guarded by hundreds of South Aceh police proceeded in a peaceful and orderly manner. (Aceh Kita, 22/6/2006)
Farmers occupy plantation land in North Sumatra
Hundreds of farmers from two villages in the North Sumatra regency of Simalungun have forcibly occupied plantation land owned by PT Kuala Gunung, which the protesters say was annexed by the company in 1999.
The land occupation proceeded without incident although it was watched over by plain clothed police officers from the Simalungun district police. During the action, farmers who came from the Nagori Mariah Hombang Farmers Forum installed dozens of notice boards stating that the residents own the land. They also planted a number of banana tree seedlings.
The protesters said that the land occupation was last attempt by the farmers after demonstrating without effect on numerous occasions at the offices of the regent and the Simalungun DPRD. (Metro TV News, 24/6/2006)
Farmers in Samarinda demand compensation
Dozens of people from a farmers group in the East Kalimantan city of Samarinda held a demonstration at the Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) a short time ago. The demonstrators – most of whom were war veterans – were demanding compensation for land taken over by the mining company PT Lana Harita Indonesia.
The veterans arrived with number of goats. One of the former fighters even slashed their wrist to demonstrate their determination to obtain justice. (Liputan 6, 27/6/2006)
Papuans demand trial be moved to Timika
Around 600 residents from the West Papua town of Timika demonstrated at the offices of the state prosecutor and the Timika District Court on June 26. They were demanding that the trial of three defendants charged with the killing of three PT Freeport Indonesia employees in 2002 be held in Timika.
This demand was conveyed directly by Ruth Onawame the wife of one of the suspects, Reverend Ishak Onawame, to the head of the Timika state prosecutor's office and the head of the Timika District Court.
The protest proceeded in an orderly fashion with demonstrators running in circles in accordance with the customs of an Amungme tribal war. The tears and crying of the wives of the defendants added to the emotions of the rally when one of the Amungme women read out a poem titled Justice. (Liputan 6, 27/6/2006)
Police arrest eight in anti-Suharto demonstration
On the grounds that they had no permit, police arrested eight students from the United Peoples Alliance for the Trial of Suharto (ARBAS) on June 28.
The action involving some 50 students was held in front of the Bina Sarana Informatika campus in Salemba, Central Jakarta. While protesters were absorbed in giving speeches, dozens for officers from the Central Jakarta district police forcibly broke up the action and arrested the eight students.
"All of a sudden we were chased away by more than 50 local police. We will continue to hold actions until our demands are met. If not SBY-JK [President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono-Vice President Jusuf Kalla] must resign", said one of the protesters.
In addition to breaking up the demonstration, police also dismantled an ARBAS coordination post at the Christian University of Indonesia in Central Jakarta. (Detik.com, 28/6/2006)
Protests greet vice president's visit to North Sumatra
An official ceremony to mark the construction of the Kuala Namu International Airport by Vice President Jusuf Kalla in Deli Serdang, North Sumatra was marred by protests on June 29. Dozens of local residents arrived at the location demanding compensation for their land. Security personnel however prevented the protesters from getting near to Kalla's entourage. (Liputan 6, 30/6/2006)
Serang resident oppose sand mining
A short time ago, a group of students demonstrated at the Jalan Protokol roundabout in the city of Serang, Banten regency. They were demanding that the Serang regent, Taufik Nuriman, revoke licenses to mine sand on the beaches of North Serang.
The protesters said that the mining activities in the area were damaging the marine ecosystem. The action almost ended in chaos when students hijacked a number of official government vehicles that were passing by the demonstration. (Liputan 6, 30/6/2006)
Bandung students demand release of colleagues
Earlier this afternoon, the grounds of the Sate Building in the West Java regional capital of Bandung were overrun by a student protest. The students were demanding the release of six of their colleagues who were arrested at a demonstration yesterday. The students also demanded that former President Suharto and his cronies be tried immediately and called on the government to respect the people's rights to the freedom of expression. (Liputan 6, 30/6/2006)