August 28 Demonstration Prone to Anarchy, Government Ensures Workers’ Aspirations Have Been Accommodated

Jakarta – All elements of society are urged to remain alert to the potential for demonstrations on August 28, 2025, which are feared to turn anarchic. The government has emphasized that freedom of expression is guaranteed by law, but acts of destruction and provocation are not part of democracy.

Head of the Presidential Communication Office (PCO), Hasan Nasbi, asserted that damaging public facilities is an act not justified by law.

“Freedom of expression has never been prohibited. People wanting to voice their aspirations are protected by law, but destruction is not protected by law,” he stated.

He added that the aspirations of workers and the public have already been conveyed to the House of Representatives (DPR RI). Therefore, demonstrations carried out in an anarchistic manner would actually harm public interests.

“The government sees demonstrations as a way to express aspirations, but they must not lead to destruction, disruption of public order, or harm to others,” he said.

Separately, Chairman of the All-Indonesia Workers Union Confederation (KSPSI), Jumhur Hidayat, also emphasized that his members would not participate in the August 28 demonstration.

“I have instructed the 3 million members of the KSPSI family across the country not to be involved in the protest,” Jumhur asserted. He noted that dialogue with the government, parliament, and employers remains wide open.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chair of Commission II of the DPR, Aria Bima, warned that anarchistic actions would only undermine the essence of the workers’ struggle.

“No matter how ideal, beautiful, or noble the aspiration is, it must be conveyed proportionally—without resorting to anarchy,” he said.

The government also reaffirmed its commitment to fulfilling workers’ rights. More than Rp500 trillion has been allocated for social protection programs, including the expansion of free BPJS Health coverage, free education for workers’ children, electricity subsidies, and direct cash assistance.

With these concrete steps, the public is urged not to be easily provoked by calls to protest that may be exploited for political purposes and result in anarchy.