S'poreans in Jakarta advised to avoid large public gatherings & protests areas

The Singapore Embassy in Jakarta has advised Singapore citizens living in the Indonesian capital to avoid areas affected by ongoing protests.

In a Facebook notice published on Aug. 30, the embassy noted the demonstrations taking place in Jakarta and some secondary cities.

"Singaporeans in Indonesia should avoid demonstration areas and large public gatherings," it said. 

Citizens were also reminded to monitor developments through the local news and adhere to instructions by the local authorities.

Those who are in or travelling to Indonesia were advised to eRegister with the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) to allow them to remain contactable by the authorities in the event of emergencies.

They were also encouraged to keep in touch with family and friends to ensure their safety.

Consular assistance can also be found in various cities in Indonesia, including the Singapore Embassy in Jakarta and the Singapore Consulates-General in Batam and Medan.

Protests against property tax hike

Protests erupted in Jakarta on Aug. 26 over what many saw as excessive parliamentary benefits, with thousands gathered around Indonesia's parliament.

It has since escalated into widespread chaos, with molotov cocktails, water cannons and tear gas employed by protesters and the police alike.

A Gojek rider was killed by a police armoured vehicle amidst the chaos on Aug. 28, when the police were dispersing crowds of protesters.

The incident further fuelled anger and rising tensions as students called for protests outside police headquarters on Aug. 29.

Most recently, at least three people were killed and five were injured after protesters set a council building ablaze in the city of Makassar on Aug. 29.

Top images via Singapore Embassy in Jakarta/Facebook & inforangkasbitung/Tiktok