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Indonesia Roundup No 40 - November 13-19, 2006
[Indonesia roundup is a weekly compilation of actions, demonstrations and protests taken from Indonesian language news sources produced by the INDOLEFT News Service and the People's Democratic Party (PRD). Please note that actions already covered by English language media sources are generally omitted. Compiled and translated by James Balowski.]
Actions, demos, protests...
Bolong Beach residents protest again, demand compensation
Around 200 Bolong Beach residents from Parangtritis, in the Bantul regency of Central Java demonstrated again on November 13 demanding that they be compensated for land that to be used to relocate traders currently operating on Parangtritis beach.
The residents have been given until December 20 to dismantle their homes on land that the Bantul regency government claims belongs to the Sultan of Yogyakarta. Concerned that they will have nowhere to live after civil service police destroyed eight houses, last week some 200 residents sought shelter at the Yogyakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD).
During the action on Monday, they marched from the DPRD to the Yogyakarta governor's office where they wanted to meet with Governor Hamengku Buwono X. Police however closed the gates and prevented them from entering the grounds and the protesters had to resort to giving speeches in front of the gate. (Media Indonesia, 13/11/2006)
Yogyakarta students accuse Bush of being war criminal
Actions opposing a visit by US President George Bush to the West Java city of Bekasi on November 20 have also spread to Yogyakarta where hundreds of students form the University of Gajah Mada (UGM) held a protest at the campus roundabout on November 13. In addition to giving speeches the students also set fire to photographs of Bush. Initiated by the UGM Student Executive Council (BEM), students also put up posters reading "Reject Bush's visit" and "Bush is a war criminal". (Tempo Interactive, 13/11/2006)
Metromini drivers demand police take action against thugs
Around 400 Metromini T41 bus drivers and conductors plying the Tanjung Priok-Pulo Gadung demonstrated in front of the North Jakarta district police offices on November 13 demanding that police take action against thugs who collect illegal fees along the route.
"A single U-turn (at the location) costs 4,000 rupiah", said one of the drivers, Situmorang, adding that this is compounded by other fees such as security fees of as much as 25,000 rupiah per day. "We object to fees as large as this", he said.
This is further added to by being forced to by a 5,000 rupiah bottle of drinking waters and snacks such as fried bananas. The demonstrators, who arrived in 200 Metromini buses that they parked along the street brought traffic to a crawl. (Tempo Interactive, 13/11/2006)
Tangerang workers demand minimum wage increase
Hundreds of workers from the Cisadane Worker's Committee (KBC) demonstrated at two separate locations on November 13 demanding an increase in the regional minimum wage. The first protest was held at the Tangerang regency Labour Office on Jl. Perintis Kemerdekaan and the second at the Tangerang municipal Labour Office on Jl. Pintu Air Sepuluh.
In a statement the workers said they rejected the enactment of Labour Ministry Regulation No. 17/2005 on setting the regional minimum wage saying that it was not enough to meet the cost of living. National Trade Union (SBN) chairperson Sunarno said that the regulation was a trick to fool workers since it used calculations that make the cost of living appear lower. Sunarno explained that based on a survey by the KBC, the minimum cost of living for a worker in Tangerang was 1,595,250 rupiah per month while the amount agreed to by the Wage Council was only 901,199 rupiah for the city and 897,750 for the regency. (Media Indonesia, 13/11/2006)
Presidential visit to Cilacap greeted with protests
A November 14 visit by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) to the Central Java city of Cilacap to officiate the opening of the Cilacap Coal-fired Power Plant (PLTU) and the Karangsambung nature reserve was greeted by protest actions.
The first action was held by hundreds of housewives and children wearing masks from the Griya Kencana Permai housing complex that lined up along the road leading to the power plant complex. "We intentionally wore masks to let Mr. President know that there are still problems with the Cilacap PLTU. To date the PLTU has never cared about what happens to residents here. Every time there is a wind, dust from the coal that is piled up at the PLTU complex flies all over the place", said one of the housewives, Ina.
A demonstration was also held at an intersection leading to the complex by scores of students from the Movement Alliance that is made up of the Cilacap Indonesian Islamic Students Movement (PMII) and the Cilacap Integrated Indonesian United Organisation. In speeches they said that the PLTU management pays no attention to the pollution the site is creating. "We want health guarantees for the community around the PLTU site from the impact of pollution that is being caused", asserted action coordinator Fakhir Nawawi.
Tensions rose when police tried to break up the demonstration and seize posters. (Media Indonesia, 14/11/2006)
Bandung textile workers demand minimum wage increase
More then 1,000 textile workers from seven sub-districts in the Bandung regency of West Java demonstrated on November 14 during a convoy from their places of work to the Bandung regency offices.
The workers, who came from the National Trade Union (SPN), were demanding that the Bandung Wage Board immediately increase the regional minimum wage from 820,000 rupiah per month to 920,000. Anticipating trouble, hundreds of police had been providing super tight security since early morning.
Despite this, a section of demonstrators from the textile factories PT Forever, PT Malakasari and PT Wingindeteks succeeded in breaking down the front gates of their factories. The workers were soon dispersed when police were deployed to guard the area surrounding the factories.
In speeches the workers said that the Wage Board and the local government were not paying attention to the fate of workers. "They don't care about the fate of workers who constantly suffer financial loss, particularly in terms of wages", said one of the protesters, Didin.
Although they were unable to meet with the regent, the protesters disbanded in an orderly manner but threatened to hold another and more massive action within one month if their demands are not met. (Media Indonesia, 14/11/2006)
Protesters in Sukabumi demand justice
Members of the Sukabumi Social Justice Concern Forum (FMPKS) demonstrated at the Cibadak state prosecutors office in the West Java city of Sukabumi on November 13 demanding that law enforcement officials involved in a number of corruption cases act a non-discriminative manner.
The action, which involved religious pupils from a traditional Islamic boarding school in Sukabumi, was tightly guarded by police but after blockading a main road and impeding traffic, protesters were able get past the security cordon by jumping over the fence into the office grounds. A scuffle then broke out with police when protesters tried to force their way into the prosecutor's office. Having failed, the demonstrators then gave speeches and held a happening art action depicting injustice. (Liputan 6, 14/11/2006)
Balinese farmers demand compensation from Tommy Suharto company
As many as 83 farmers from the village of Pecatu in the area of Jimbaran, Bali, held an action at the Bali DPRD this afternoon to complain against PT Bali Pecatu Graha that has still not given them compensation for land that was taken over by the company owned by Tommy Suharto.
According to action coordinator Gede Beratha, farmers' lives have been uncertain since the project began operations in 1996. "Our people are unable to farm or raise livestock", said the retired military captain. (Tempo Interactive, 14/11/2006)
Demonstrations against Bush visit continue
A series of demonstrations opposing the planned visit by George Bush have taken place over the last week.
On November 14 protesters from the Destroy Bush Bogor Alliance (ABG Bush) demonstrated at the Kujang Monument condemning Bush's visit to the West Java city of Bogor. In a statement, the alliance said that Bush's visit represented a counter-revolutionary movement by President Yudhoyono and Vice President Jusuf Kalla.
Bush is a symbol of global neo-imperialism and in the context of Indonesia is against the 1945 Constitution that explicitly opposes all forms of imperialism said ABG Bush spokesperson Maya. The US's expansion into Afghanistan and Iraq is concrete evidence that Bush is a "barbaric reactionary" and his support for Israel that has consumed no small number of victims in Palestine and Lebanon represents the double standards of US foreign policy.
The protest opposing Bush's visit has been increasing over the last week with actions being held by student groups as well as Islamic mass organisations.
The Islamic Community Forum (FUI) has not only condemned the visit but will issue a motion of no confidence in President Yudhoyono if he remains determined to receive Bush as a state guest. FUI chairperson Mashadi said that the visit illustrates that Yudhoyono no longer has any sensitivity to the complaints of the world Islamic community in general and Indonesia in particular.
The motion of no confidence, which has already been signed by several important and influential figures in the Islamic community as well as a number of institutions and mass organisations, will be forward to the Palace if Bush's visit goes ahead. (Media Indonesia, 14/11/2006)
Opposing Bush visit, Makassar students burn picture of monkey
A picture of a person wearing a full suit and with the face of a monkey with the word "Bush" written above it was set alight during a protest by students from the Indonesian Muslim University in the South Sulawesi provincial capital of Makassar on November 13.
Before being burnt, the picture was held up by students as they took turns in giving speeches in which they called on the Indonesian people to oppose Bush's visit to Indonesia. The protesters also closed off half of the road and detained a Pertamina oil company tanker from which they also gave lively speeches.
A similar action was held at the Reformasi Toll road intersection by members of the Student Executive Council (BEM) from the 45 University in which they burn posters with Bush's picture on them. They also set fire to old tyres on the toll road causing traffic to be disrupted. (Detik.com, 14/11/2006)
'Bush' gives speech at Bogor Botanical Gardens
President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono was overseeing security preparations for a visit by US President George W. Bush at the Bogor Palace when, eh... "Bush" began giving a speech in front of the gates of the Bogor Botanical Gardens.
But no, it was not the real Bush but Rudi, a student from the Bogor Institute of Agriculture (IPB) wearing a mask with a picture of Bush. Rudi gave the speech during protest by IPB students on November 13 opposing Bush's visit to Bogor, West Java, on November 20.
"You know, I love this country, so I will provide additional loans to Indonesia. With this debt, I will obtain absolute control over Indonesia", said "Bush" alias Rudi, who was greeted with boos and shouts from his colleges.
The protest, which had been going on since morning was still continued as of 1pm while five protesters attempting to meet with Yudhoyono. (Detik.com, 14/11/2006)
Bush rides pedicab to Bogor Palace
Even though the helipad has already been completed, it turns out that President Bush decided to ride a pedicab to the Bogor Palace. Driven by President Yudhoyono, the pedicab delivered Bush "by land" to the Palace.
Hold on. The Bush sitting in the pedicab was not the real George W. Bush but instead a man wearing a mask with Bush's picture on it. Likewise with the pedicab driver who was not the real Yudhoyono but a man wearing a Yudhoyono mask. The same was the case with the Vice President Jusuf Kalla who rode alongside Bush in another pedicab.
This is an illustration of an action by 100 IPB students who held a rally to the Bogor Palace on November 13. The image of Bush riding a pedicab driven by Yudhoyono attracted a great deal by photojournalists who wanted to immortalise the picture. As his picture was taken, Bush grudgingly smiled and waved. Yudhoyono, who looked board and tired driving the pedicab also waved, as did Kalla.
Behind Bush's pedicab were 100 marching students shouting "Bush is a war criminal, a human rights violator and we will devour [him]". (Detik.com, 14/11/2006)
Students condemn Bush as enemy of world peace
Hundreds of students from the Indonesian Muslim Students Action Front (KAMMI) in the South Kalimantan provincial capital of Banjarmasin demonstrated on November 14 against the planned visit by Bush. During the protest, which was held in the form of a march around the city, the student condemned Bush calling him the enemy of world peace. (Liputan 6, 14/11/2006)
Semarang students oppose Bush visit, Yudhoyono too
Students in the East Java provincial capital of Semarang protesting Bush's planned visit have also expressed their opposition to President Yudhoyono coming to Semarang.
The first demonstration was held by around 50 students from KAMMI at the Water Fountain Roundabout in Semarang on November 14. Wearing red jackets and white headbands with the writing "Reject Bush", the protesters brought an effigy of Bush made out of cardboard and US flags. The also brought posters with messages such as "Reject the global colonialists", "Reject the mother of imperialism" and "Reject Bush".
In speeches they said that Bush's visit showed that the Indonesian government is a coward in servicing Bush's arrival. "How can a meeting of only four hours be able to consume funds of 6 billion rupiah? This is totally out of line with the conditions of the Indonesian people who are currently suffering crisis", said KAMMI coordinator Asep Teguh Firmansyah. They also called on Indonesians to boycott US made products.
After giving speeches and singing songs, protesters set fire to the effigy of Bush and the US flags. (Detik.com, 14/11/2006)
Residents oppose closure of oil processing operations
Hundreds of residents from Pangkalan Brandan in North Sumatra demonstrated at the local offices of the state-own oil and gas company Pertamina on November 15. The protesters were opposing plans to close down oil processing operations next year as hundreds of people would loose their jobs. The residents claimed that the reason given for the closure, that output had been declining, was a fabrication and that oil reserves were still adequate. (Liputan 6, 16/11/2006)
Cimahi workers demand minimum wage increase
Thousands of workers demonstrated at the office of the Cimahi Deputy Mayor in West Java on November 16 against a recommendation by the wage board to set the 2007 minimum wage at 715,000 rupiah per month. The workers are demanding that the current minimum wage be increased to 885,000 rupiah in line with the cost of living. (Liputan 6, 16/11/2006)
Makassar students protest against veiled election campaign
Hundreds of students in Makassar protested against South Sulawesi Governor Amin Syam and his deputy Syahrul Yasin on November 16. The students said that the pair were too busy holding a veiled election campaign by visiting a number of areas to pay attention to affairs of government. Syam and Yasin are running as candidates for the election of governor and deputy governor in 2007. (Liputan 6, 16/11/2006)
Semarang workers demand minimum wage of 1 million per month
At least 2,000 workers from a number of companies in Semarang demonstrated at the governor's office on November 16 demanding that the regional minimum wage be raised to more than 1 million rupiah per month.
The action by the workers, who came from the Semarang Labour Movement (GBS), was related to plans by Governor Mardiyanto to set the minimum wage at 632,000 rupiah per month on November 21 based on a recommendation by the Semarang municipal government.
The demonstrators said that the recommendation is too low if compared with the cost of living in Semarang. "In accordance with the results of a survey [by the Social Revelation Foundation], a reasonable minimum wage would be 1 million rupiah", said action coordinator Nanang Setiyono.
Responding to the workers demands, the deputy head of the Central Java Labour and Transmigration Office Surobiyanto said that the amount is only a proposal. "The government will be considering many issues before it the wage is set", he said. (Tempo Interactive, 16/11/2006)
Workers Challenge Alliance rejects 2007 minimum wage
On November 15, hundreds of workers from the Workers Challenge Alliance (ABM) demonstrated at the Jakarta city hall against the 2007 minimum provincial wage for Jakarta being set at 900,560 rupiah per month.
The workers, who said that the new minimum wage was unreasonable, said the increase from 819,100 per month to 900,560 was too small and only represented an increase of 9.95 percent. "Whereas, the increase last year was as much as 15.07 percent from 711,843 to 819,100 rupiah", said ABM coordinator Musrianto.
Musrianto said that the basic cost of living that was calculated for the 2007 minimum wage was as much as 991,988 rupiah per month. "Workers' wages should be calculated on Type 36 house repayments, buying newspapers, recreation and communication costs. Based on our calculations a reasonable amount would be as much as 3.27 million rupiah", said Musrianto. (Tempo Interactive, 15/11/2006)
Acehnese students rally against corruption in Bireuen
Hundreds of students demonstrated at the Bireuen DPRD in northern Aceh on November 15 demanding that legal action be taken over a corruption case involving the leakage of state budgetary funds by government officials that took place between 2001-2005.
The demonstrators, who came from the Bireuen Social Concern Alliance (AMPB), which is made up of student activists, non-government organisation anti-corruption activists and local political party activists, started the rally at the Al Muslim campus then took buses to the Bireuen state prosecutors' office in Cot Gapu. After obtain a signed agreement from prosecutor M. Adnan SH to follow up corruption cases in Bireuen, the protesters then marched some four kilometers to the Bireuen regent's office.
At the regent's office, which is located alongside the Bireuen DPRD, the protesters gave speeches in which they called on the assembly to follow up the corruption cases at the Bireuen regional government and for legislators to sign an agreement to resolve the case.
Bireuen DPRD deputy speaker Drs. Anwar Idris responded by saying that the assembly was prepared to solve corruption cases in Bireuen and was currently working on the issue. (Aceh Kita, 15/11/2006)
No end in sight for anti-Bush demonstrations in Bogor
Scores of students and members of Islamic mass organisations collected signatures yesterday in Bogor to petition against the planned visit by George Bush.
The activists came from a number of organisations including the Muslim Students Association for Reform (HMI MPO), the Indonesian Nationalist Students Movement (GMNI), the Indonesian Islamic Students Movement (PMII), the Indonesian Christian Students Movement (GMKI), Democrat Youth and the Nahdlatul Ulama Youth Generation (AMNU).
After collecting a thousand or more signatures from street traders, pedicab drivers, shoppers, drivers and local residents, they handed the petition over to the Bogor regional police chief Sukrawardi Dahlan. Dahlan said that they would pass the activists concerns on to the relevant party but added that he had no authority beyond this. (Tempo Interactive, 15/11/2006)
Court sentences Bush to 'burn in hell'
Lively protests against George Bush's visit are continuing across the country. In the West Sumatra provincial capital of Padang, the West Sumatra Forum for the Upholding of Islamic Law (FPSIS) held a "trail in absentia" on November 15 in which the panel of judges sentenced Bush to burn in hell for crimes against Islamic countries.
In Makassar, students demonstrating against Bush said they would boycott the 2009 general elections if President Yudhoyono and Jusuf Kalla insisted on bringing Bush to Indonesia.
Hundreds of members and sympathisers of the Justice and Prosperity Party (PKS) in the East Java provincial capital of Surabaya demonstrated by marching to the US Consulate. Upon arriving however, they were stopped by a police line some 100 meters from the consulate.
In Jakarta, members of the Hizbullah Crescent Star Brigade held a similar action at the US Embassy in which they urged the government to cancel Bush's visit saying its popularity would decline because of the US's involvement in the war in Iraq and Afghanistan. (Liputan 6, 15/11/2006)
Anti-Bush protesters and supporters almost clash
Tensions were high at the Kujang Monument in Bogor today when protesters opposing and supporting a visit by George Bush traded insults and almost clashed before being separated by police.
The first demonstration was held by students from the Muslim Students Association (HMI) and the Fraternity of Indonesian Muslim Workers (PPMI) who gave speeches opposing Bush's visit. At the same time some 150 Bush supporters arrived and put up a US flag and a banner welcoming Bush. In order to avoid a clash, the HMI and PPMI protests moved to another location to continue their demonstration.
Around an hour later, some 200 students from the Bogor Pakuan University arrived at the monument with banners opposing Bush. Both groups began trading insults with the students accusing the Bush supporters of betraying the country. In order to avoid a clash, police moved the Pakuan students to another location. (Tempo Interactive, 15/11/2006)
Public transport drivers, students protest Bush visit
Demonstrations are continuing in Bogor in the lead up to a visit by George Bush. This time it was public transport drivers who on November 15 protested against changes to their designated routes that will come into force during the visit, which they say will result in a decline in income.
Earlier this morning, members of the Indonesian Students Action Front (KAMI) and the PPMI held a protest at the Kujang Monument, not far from the Bogor Botanical Guardians, in which they handed out leaflets condemning Bush's visit.
And this afternoon, the Kujang Monument was inundated by around 200 people from the Bogor Henry Center Association who support the visit saying that as a state guest Bush should be respected. (Liputan 6, 15/11/2006)
We'll flatten America say anti-US demonstrators
Marching to the sound of a gong, some 50 or so members of the Movement Against the United States (GLAS) went to the offices of PT Freeport Indonesia in South Jakarta on November 16
Unlike an earlier action at the nearby offices of PT Mosanto, the action in front of the US owned mining company was tightly guarded by police that had formed a barricade in front to the entrance to the building before protesters arrived.
During the action, one of the protesters rolled around on the road wearing a hat in the motif of a US flag while other demonstrators trampled on him as a symbol of their annoyance with the US government. The protesters also shouted anti-colonial and anti-imperialist slogans that were popularised by Indonesia's founding President Sukarno such as "We'll flatten America, we'll pry Britain out, we'll kick out Japan" [which rhyme in Indonesian - JB] and "America is a thief".
GLAS is made up of members of the Legal Aid Foundation (LBH), the Indonesian Farmers Federation (FSPI), the Anti-Debt Coalition (KAU) and the Indonesian Environment Forum (Walhi). The group presented three demands during the protest: the nationalisation of US owned assets in Indonesia, the annulment of pro-US legal instruments such as the law on natural resources and the law on plantations and for the government to act firmly against violence committed by Freeport and ExxonMobil. (Detik.com, 16/11/2006)
Yogyakarta protesters 'curse Bush with black magic'
A demonstration against George Bush was also held by around 60 students from the Islamic State University in Yogyakarta on November 15 in which the protesters set fire to tyres and shouted "Come on curse Bush with black magic!".
The action started at the Yogyakarta Monument intersection where they gave speeches, set fire to tyres and shouted insults against Bush such as "Bush the real terrorist!". In particular they questioned the cost of security for the visit that will be as much as 6 billion rupiah. "It would be better if that much money is used for the people's welfare", charged the students. After about 30 minutes they moved off to demonstrate at the DPRD. (Detik.com, 16/11/2006)
Students and Islamic groups protest against Bush in Solo
Two separated demonstrations against Bush's visit were held in the Central Java city of Solo on November 16.
The first protest was held by members of the Student Executive Council (BEM) Forum from the Eleven March University (UNS) at the UNS boulevard. In addition to opposing Bush's visit to Indonesia the students also collected signatures from other students demonstrating against the visit. The student said that Bush's visit is an attempt to influence and lobby Indonesia and the alleged reason for the visit, joint cooperation in education, health and anti-corruption is lies.
The second protest was held by the Surakarta Islamic Community Forum (FUIS), which is made representatives from various Muslim based organisations in Solo including the PKS, the United Development Party, Hizbut Tahir Indonesia (HTI), KAMMI and the Al-Mukmin Ngruki Islamic boarding school. In a press statement read out to members of the Solo DPRD, the FUIS called on the government to cancel the visit saying it was a waste of time and money. (Detik.com, 16/11/2006)
Opposing Bush, students march backward to State Palace
Around 300 students who said that Yudhoyono and Kalla have taken a step back by accepting a visit by George Bush, protested by marching backwards from the Hotel Indonesia roundabout to the State Palace on November 16.
The 300 students, who were followed by around 700 others from KAMMI and the Greater Jakarta BEM, stopped off and held a short demonstration in front of McDonald's at the Sarinah department store where they shouted "Boycott US products" before continuing on to the palace. (Detik.com, 16/11/2006)
Anti-Bush demonstration in Medan ends in clash
A demonstration in the North Sumatra provincial capital of Medan on November 16 against the visit by George Bush has ended in a clash when some 200 protesters were involved in a scuffle with around 100 police.
The protesters, who come from the Anti-Imperialist People's Alliance (ARAI), which is an alliance of various student groups in Medan, had been demonstrating since 11am saying they opposed Bush's visit and were against western imperialism in Indonesia.
The clash broke out at around 1pm when they were confronted by a blockade of armed police in front of the US representative offices. When the students attempted to break through the blockade a scuffle broke out resulting in four students being injured. (Detik.com, 16/11/2006)
Anti-Bush demonstrations spread to State Palace
It has not just been the Bogor palace that has been rocked by anti-Bush demonstrations, the State Palace in Central Jakarta has also become a target.
On November 16 some 300 students from the Anti-US Student Youth Coalition (Kompas) held a protest at the State Palace. In addition to bring banners of their respective groups they also brought posters with messages such as "Bush is the same as Hitler", "Bush is a war criminal" and "We reject Bush".
They also held a theatrical action in which a student brought monopoly money to symbolise US dollars that was then trampled on by a group of demonstrators. (Detik.com, 16/11/2006)
Students in Aceh say 'SBY, don't pawn off Indonesia'
Scores of students from the Concern for the Nation Student Alliance (AMPB) held a demonstration against George Bush's visit at Simpang Lima in the Acehnese provincial capital of Banda Aceh on November 16.
AMPB is made up of students from the Syah Kuala University Student Administration, the Ar-Raniry State Institute of Islamic Studies BEM, KAMMI Aceh, the Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) Aceh, Student Solidarity for the People (SMUR) and HTI Aceh.
The protesters brought a number of banners condemning Bush's visit including one on which was written "SBY, don't pawn of Indonesia". A picture of Bush was also placed near one of a chimpanzee, underneath were the words "American elections. Choose Bush or a monkey".
In speeches the group called on President Yudhoyono to be on guard against hidden agendas and the US's interests in order that they not harm the nation and sate. They also asked the president to take a firm position on the double standards being applied by the US.
After reading a statement the protesters then set fire to Bush's picture and the US flags. A dog that the students had been brought to the protest in a cage as 'lure' for Bush would also have been burnt if not for the quick action of journalists.
To close the action, they held a parody of the International Court trying Bush for the slaughter of civilians in Palestine, Iraq and Lebanon. The lightening fast hearing ended with the "judge" sentencing Bush to death by being shot with a missile. (Detik.com/Aceh Kita, 16/11/2006)
Railway company employees demand pension guarantees
Hundreds of current and former employees of state owned railway company PT Kereta Api demonstrated at the company's offices in Bandung on November 16 demanding social security pensions equivalent with those received by state public servants.
The chairperson of the PT Trains Trade Union (SPKA), Irwan Setiawan, said that based on an August 5, 2005 agreement the government had ordered the company to guarantee incomes, pension rights and health insurance at the same level as civil servants. "The director promised to do this when he first took office, that is on September 17, 2005. But up until now it has not happened", said Setiawan.
Like other protest actions, demonstrators also brought banners and posters with messages such as "Restore our [rights] in accordance with civil servant's pensions" and "We need evidence not promises". (Detik.com, 16/11/2006)
Residents demonstrate at Kendal state prosecutors' office
Hundreds of people from the Kendal Social Forum (Formak) demonstrated at the Kendal state prosecutors office in Central Java recently demanding an investigation into a fictitious insurance corruption case involving the former Kendal regional secretary Endro Arintoko.
The demonstrators forced the state prosecutor Soewandi to meet with them saying that he had been slow going in handing the case and that Arintoko should have been tried by now. In the end the protesters succeeded in getting Soewandi to present a speech to the demonstration in which he said that they would pursue the case until it reached the courts. (Liputan 6, 17/11/2006)
Blanket factory employees demand auction of company be postponed
Around 130 employees from PT Peony Blanket Industry Indonesia demonstrated at the State Credit and Auction Services Office in Bekasi city on November 17 demanding that attempts to auction off the company be postponed.
The blanket factory employees, the majority of whom were women, brought a number of banners and posters with messages such as "Whoever the buyer of PT Peony Blanket Industry Indonesia's assets is [they must] first resolve the rights of 700 employees" and "Sir...! We have been abandoned for 2 years, 2 years going hungry, 2 years left drifting".
The crisis at the blanket factory began in November 2004 when the company delayed paying its employees wages without giving a clear reason then sent the entire workforce home for an undetermined period of time. The protesters, who claimed they had found it difficult to meet with the owner of the company, said that in October they found out that the company was to auction off by a bank. (Kompas Cyber Media, 17/11/2006)
Medan residents protest against 'selective' blackouts
Hundreds of students and housewives have demonstrated again at the offices of the state owned electricity company (PT PLN) in Medan on November 16 against frequent blackouts of between eight to 12 hours that have been done without prior warning.
During the action, the protesters said that the blackouts that have been going on since October 30 have paralyzed social activists and that PT PLN has been carrying them out in a selective manner saying that there have never been any blackouts in the elite housing complexes in Medan. The protesters also called on the Corruption Eradication Commission and the Attorney General's office to investigate irregularities at PT PLN North Sumatra. (Liputan 6, 17/11/2006)
Palembang students protest over poor quality of drinking water
A number of students in the South Sumatra city of Palembang demonstrated at the local DPRD on November 16 over the quality of water being produced by the Tirta Musi Palembang Regional Drinking Water Company (PDAM). The protesters, who brought a sample of water from PDAM that was clouded and salty, said that they had chosen to protest at the DPRD rather than at the company's offices because they no longer trusted the company. (Liputan 6, 17/11/2006)
Ambon students condemn police violence
Hundreds of cross tertiary education institutions students in Ambon, Maluku, brought a bier to a demonstration on November 17 against police violence that caused the death of a student from the Lodwyk Watimuri Christian Protestant High School. The student, who was arrested as a suspect in a traffic accident died in police custody three weeks ago. (Liputan 6, 17/11/2006)
Indramayu farmers protest against salt imports
Scores for farmers from the Losarang sub-district in Indramayu, West Java, demonstrated on November 17 by dumping sacks of salt in the area of the North Beach road in protest against the import of salt into Indramayu regency. The farmers said that the salt imports would hurt farmers as it would result in a rapid drop in the price of locally produced salt. (Liputan 6, 17/11/2006)
Palu students continue protests against Bush
Protests by students in the Central Sulawesi provincial capital of Palu against George Bush's visit are continuing. On November 17 around 100 students from a number of tertiary institutions again held an action in the main streets of the city.
The protest by students from the Central Sulawesi Student Forum (FMST) began with a march to the Hasanuddin roundabout where they gave speeches opposing Bush's visit saying he is a leader that likes war and a symbol of the capitalist class that is only seeking profits for the US without giving an opportunity to other countries to develop.
After giving speeches, the students set fire to old tyres and posters of Bush while they sang Indonesian nationalist songs.
They then moved off to demonstrate at the Central Sulawesi DPRD building but were prevented from entering by police. Frustrated the students tried to burn tyres but police seized the fuel and tyres and a clash between the protesters and police was narrowly avoided. (Kompas Cyber Media, 17/11/2006)
Wave of protests against Bush in Padang
There has been another wave of protests against George Bush in Padang, where around 500 protesters from a number of Islamic mass organisations demonstrated at the provincial DPRD on November 17.
"Bush's arrival should have been anticipated and rejected. The president of the Republic of Indonesia Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono must understand the people's wishes. We are opposing [the visit] not just because of the economic problems, but also for the benefit of the community", said Forum Libas coordinator Khairul Amri in a speech.
Amri added that the Islamic community in West Sumatra opposes Bush's visit because he is destroying Islamic countries such as Palestine, Afghanistan and Lebanon. Closely guarded by police, the demonstration proceeded peacefully with protesters handing over a banner filled with signatures opposing Bush's visit to DPRD speaker Masful. (Kompas Cyber Media, 17/11/2006)
Islamic boarding school pupils protest in Jombang
Lively protests against the visit by George Bush are continuing across the country. In the East Java city of Jombang for example, hundreds of Islamic religious pupils (Santri) form the Tebuireng Islamic boarding school besieged the Jombang DPRD in protest against the visit.
The protesters, most of who were in their teens, took turns in giving speeches then moved off to demonstrate at the Jombang regional government offices. They were unable to enter the grounds however as the building was cordoned off by security personnel. Before ending the action, the protesters set fire to two US flags. (Liputan 6, 17/11/2006)
Protesters hang effigy of Bush from palm tree
Around 1,200 members and sympathisers of the PKS held an action on November 17 in Medan during which an effigy of President Bush was hung from a palm tree.
After gathering at the Great Mosque the protesters held a long march to the US representative office where they held speeches accusing Bush of being a terrorist and failing to take responsibility for various humanitarian tragedies around the world. "We oppose Bush coming to Indonesia, and ask the government to oppose all forms of intervention and dictates from Bush", said PKS chairperson Gatot Pudjo Nugroho.
The protesters also held a theatrical action in which Bush was tried as an international criminal. During the hearing Bush was accused of being responsible for the murder of Iraqi, Afghanistan and Palestinian people and after being declared guilty sentenced to death by hanging. An effigy of Bush was then hung from a palm tree near the US representative office. (Detik.com, 17/11/2006)
Yudhoyono hangs 'Bush' in front of the State Palace
President Yudhoyono gave an important lesson to the arrogant George Bush by hanging him in front of the State Palace with a red-and-white cloth on November 17.
Of course it wasn't the real Yudhoyono and Bush, but a theatrical action that took place during a protest action by demonstrators from the Action Coalition for the Eviction of Bush (KAUB). Yudhoyono's bravery was also only theatrical. The evidence, the 100 or so demonstrators still brought a brown duck to symbolise the Indonesian government tail-ending the wishes of the US.
In addition to bringing flags from their respective organisations, the protesters also put up a long banner with the message "Bush go to hell, please" and smaller banners with the writing "Oppose the policies of SBY-Kalla who lick Bush's ass" and "Chase Bush out of Indonesia". (Detik.com, 17/11/2006)
Three corpses 'murdered by Bush' dumped into pool
After being brutally murdered by 'Bush', three corpses were then disposed of in the pool at the Hotel Indonesia roundabout in Central Jakarta. Before being dumped, the three people were beaten bloody until they met their doom at the hands of 'Bush'. Ruthless!
This was a theatrical action that was held by some 50 members of the National Awakening Youth Movement (Garda Bangsa) on November 17 to depict the blood spilled by Bush's foreign policies.
During the action the protesters called on Yudhoyono to have the confidence to reject being dictated to by the US and to give a lesson to Bush and the US about genuine human rights and democracy. Garda Bangsa chairperson Idam Darmana said that the protest was not about accepting or receiving Bush's visit. "We don't want to get trapped in that polemic. Nevertheless we still see Bush as a perpetrator of gross human rights. That is what we are protesting", he said.
The protesters also brought a number of banners with messages such as "Beware of Bush", "Bush is an international criminal", "Bring Bush before the International and Human Rights courts" and "Mr Bush, don't teach us about democracy and human rights". (Detik.com, 17/11/2006)
Bogor students tell Bush to 'go to hell'
In one of the largest actions to date, eight students carried a coffin covered with a green cloth with the writing "Go to Hell Bush!" followed by around 700 students during a march to the Bogor Palace on November 17.
Organised by the BEM students from the Bogor Institute of Agriculture (IPB) the Ibnu Khaldun University and the Pakuan University, this was one of the largest student actions so far.
Marching behind the coffin, other students held a theatrical action depicting US pressure and the 'hidden' agenda of Bush's visit to Indonesia. Other students meanwhile shouted anti-Bush slogans such as "Hang Bush" and "Bush is a terrorist". (Detik.com, 17/11/2006)
Thousands demonstrate against Bush in Bandung
Anti-Bush demonstrations are continuing to flare up in Bandung. On November 17 thousands of people from Islamic mass organisations protested at the Sate Building Complex at which they accused the government of betraying Islam by allowing the Bush visit to go ahead.
At least 10 mass organisations were involved in the protest including HTI, the PKS, the Indonesian Council for Islamic Propagation (DDII), the Islamic Community Brotherhood Forum (FUUI), KAMMI, Muhammadiyah, United Islam (Persis), the Islamic Community Party (PUI) and the Indonesian Youth Movement (GPI).
As well as bringing their respective organisational flags, the protesters also brought a banners with the writing "Bush is a war criminal" and one with a picture of Bush wearing clothing and a moustache ala Hitler. In speeches, representatives of the organisations said that the Muslim community rejects Bush's visit and called the Indonesian government a traitor to Islam. (Detik.com, 17/11/2006)
Inter-religious youth organisations present protest letter for Bush
Representatives from seven inter-religious youth organisations went to the US Embassy in Jakarta on November 17 to present a letter opposing Bush's visit to the US Ambassador for Indonesia Lynn Pascoe.
The seven organisations included Muhammadiyah Youth, the Ansor Youth Movement, the Indonesian Buddhist Youth Generation (Gema Budhi), Pradah Indonesia, the Indonesian Christian Youth Generation Movement (GAMKI), Catholic Youth (PK) and the Confucian Youth Generation (GMK).
One of the representatives from GP Ansor, Malik Haramain, said that in addition to delivering the letter, they are also calling on Bush to stop using political double standards and taking an arbitrary attitude towards other countries by taking up issues of human rights and democracy. "We are also asking the American government to stop the invasion of and aggression against Middle Eastern countries and to place itself alongside other countries", said Haramain.
Meanwhile the head of Muhammadiyah Youth, Raja Juli Antoni, said Pascoe responded positively to the protest letter and promised to pass it on to Bush when he arrives on November 20. (Detik.com, 17/11/2006)
Indramayu students seal off US fast food outlet
Hundreds of students from Islamic mass organisations in Indramayu protested at the local DPRD on November 17 against the visit by George Bush. They also sealed off a US fast food outlet to symbolise their opposition to the visit. (Liputan 6, 17/11/2006)
Yogyakarta students seal off McDonalds
Hundreds of protesters from the Muslim Students Association for Reform (splinter group of HMI) sealed of a McDonald's restaurant in Yogyakarta on November 17 as a symbolic protest against George Bush's visit.
The restaurant was sealed off by sticking up pictures of Bush with the worlds "Wanted" underneath it and writing the words "sealed off" on the front door. Although surprised, the patrons did not appear greatly disturbed by the action.
The sealing off of McDonalds was not in fact the target of the protest but a spontaneous action that took place during a rally from the UGM roundabout to the Yogyakarta monument.
In addition to rejecting Bush's visit, the protesters also condemned the Indonesian government for accepting him as a guest. "We reject the governments excessive position in greeting Bush", said action coordinator Zwar M Syafei. (Tempo Interactive, 17/11/2006)
Protesters in Bali oppose Bush visit
Hundreds of protesters from the KAMMI and the Campus Religious Foundation (LDK) in Bali held a demonstration on November 17 against George Bush's visit to Indonesia.
The demonstration began with a gathering for Friday prayers in front of the Bali governor's office where they put up a length of cloth with the writing "Reject Bush: War criminal: Imperialist-Capitalist". They then held a march to the US Consulate General during which they shouted anti-Bush slogans and declared their support for the struggle of the Palestinian people. (Tempo Interactive, 17/11/2006)
Get to know the new party though demonstrations
Scores of protesters demonstrated in front of the Agung State Place Building in Yogyakarta yesterday criticising the state of the nation, particularly in relation to the foreign debt. The protesters came from the Yogyakarta chapter of the Preparatory Committee for the National Liberation Party of Unity (KP-Papernas).
Action spokesperson Eman Sulaiman said that the organisation represents a new embryonic political party that is aiming to become a vehicle for the people's struggle in creating sovereignty. According to Sulaiman, the people must be free from oppression and repression in all areas such as the economy, politics and culture.
"Indonesia is currently in a situation of not being unable to stand on its own feet [berdikari] in terms of the economy so that it cannot be independent. The state is dependent upon foreigners", asserted Sulaiman, which was reinforced by his friends who were giving speeches in front of the Agung Building front gates.
In Sulaiman's opinion, Indonesia's economic resources are controlled by powers that exploit and profit on a huge scale in their own interests. As a consequence, the Indonesian people are unable to enjoy prosperity.
These powers are in fact are seeking direct control of the national economy, starting with small things such as mining and the banking industry. This can be seen from the sale of strategic state assets to foreign parties. The consequence of this is that profits no longer fall in to the hands of the state but into the pockets of the capitalists and liberals.
Sulaiman went on to explain that the countries that have joined with the United States are the imperialist powers that are attempting to regulate Indonesia and other developing countries so that they follow their polices. Moreover, they are also trying to control the legislator. "As a consequence, the political elite from the parties that sit on the legislator have failed to struggle for and bring prosperity to the ordinary people", said Sulaiman.
KP-Papernas was formed to become an alternative political vehicle for the people, to struggle against the parties and elite that are tools of the imperialists. The organisation has no hesitation in going out into the streets to campaign for the wishes of the people.
During yesterday's action, they demanded the abolition of the foreign debt and the take over of industries that are beneficial to the people such as oil, gas, electricity and communication. They also said that the government must employ ordinary people in fields that to date have been controlled by foreigners.
"Cheap education along with an increase to workers' wages are one of the central concerns of our struggle. Because up until now it has been clearly seen that education is becoming more and more expensive, so that the ordinary people such as workers, farmers and street traders can no longer send their children to school", explained Sulaiman. (Java Post,17/11/2006)
Pekanbaru students make live radio broadcast opposing Bush visit
Students in the Riau provincial capital of Pekanbaru have also indicated their opposition to the visit by George Bush by burning US flags and an effigy of Bush during a demonstration on November 18.
The action by around 300 students from various tertiary education institutions began at the roundabout in front of the Pekanbaru mayor's office followed by a march to the Radio Republic Indonesia (RRI) building. The protesters also handed out leaflets in which they said Pekanbaru students protest the position of the Yudhoyono government in accepting Bush's visit, as it will cost some 6 billion rupiah. Upon arriving at the RRI building, the students were given an opportunity to make a live broadcast in which they read out a statement opposing the visit. (Detik.com, 18/11/2006)
Protesters say 'Soekarno yes, Hugo Chavez yes, Evo Morales yes, Bush no way!'
Around 100 people wearing traditional clothing from the Archipelago Alliance (AN) held an action against George Bush's visit at the Hotel Indonesia roundabout on November 18 after holding a long-march from the Indosat Building.
The alliance is a coalition of social organisations including the Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (Kontras), the Urban Poor Consortium (UPC), LBH, Walhi, the Families of the May Victims (KKM) and the Indonesian Women's Coalition (KPI).
Wearing traditional clothing form Aceh, North Sumatra, West Papua, Sulawesi, Nusa Tenggara and Kalimantan, they circled the roundabout accompanied by Tor-Tor music from Tapanuli and songs from Minang. The traditional cloths were worn to represent places where foreign companies are exploiting the Indonesian people.
They also brought banners with messages such as "Bush Indonesia Number 1 Enemy", "Bush you are unwelcome here!", "Soekarno yes, Hugo Chavez yes, Evo Morales yes, Bush no way!" and "Bush is a scoundrel".
In a speech, one of the action coordinators, Yenny Rosa Damayanti, read out a letter to Bush in which she said that the government had committed a grave error in accepting the visit. "We reject your visit, because you make threats against terrorism but it is precisely [you] that goes to war like a terrorist. To take the minerals and mine energy sources that belong to the Indonesian people. Moreover these companies destroy the environment, therefore we reject you!", she said. (Detik.com, 18/11/2006)
US embassy ambushed by five 'monkeys'
Demonstrations against George Bush have been diverse in nature. On November 18 protesters from the PKS held a theatrical action wearing monkey suits in front of the US Embassy in Central Jakarta.
During the protests by some 200 or so PKS members, five demonstrators dressed up as monkeys, one wearing a Bush mask, pranced around with the 'Bush' monkey pointing at and ordering the other four monkeys around. The four monkeys nodded their heads in response. The protesters said that they were depicting countries that are US allies and easily ordered around.
The demonstrators also brought a number of posters with messages such as "Wanted Killer In The World 2006" and "Original Terrorist". (Detik.com, 18/11/2006)
Students reject US capitalist hegemony
Three thousand people from the Student Movement for Liberation, a coalition of student groups from the IPB and the Ibnu Khaldum University held an action against George Bush at the Kujang Monument on November 18.
The action, which started in front of the offices of Indonesian Institute of Science, was followed by a two-kilometer march to the monument. In speeches the student said that they opposed Bush's visit because he will only be seeking to strengthen US capitalist hegemony in Indonesia.
In addition to giving speeches, the students also brought posters condemning the visit with messages such as "Along with Bush we are despicable", "Reject and destroy US capitalist hegemony" and the like. (Detik.com, 18/11/2006)
Residents protest factory closure
Hundreds of residents from the village of Tinggi in the Asahan regency of North Sumatra demonstrated on November 17 against the closure of a latex refining factory by a group of people claiming to be from the local government. The demonstrators said that the closure of the factory would hurt local residents who have depended on the factory as a source of income for the last 20 years. (Liputan 6, 18/11/2006)
Poor demand free education and healthcare
Hundreds of poor people in Makassar demonstrated on November 18 demanding that the local government provide free education and healthcare facilities. The demonstrators, who began their action at a number of housing complexes, then marched to the South Sulawesi DPRD. (Liputan 6, 18/11/2006)
Primary school students protest class room eviction
Hundreds of primary school students and teachers in Sokaraja Lor in the Central Java regency of Banyumas demonstrated recently against plans to evict them and turn a number of classrooms at their school into offices for the village head. Despite the protests, the village administration said it was determined to go ahead with the plan claiming that the school building was a village asset. (Liputan 6, 18/11/2006)
Scavengers protest against paper company policy
Hundreds of scavengers who collects and recycles rubbish from Tegal Maja in the city of Serang in Banten regency demonstrated on November 18 against the policies of PT Indah Kiat that has prohibited them from using discarded waste from the processing of paper. The scavengers also called on the company to provide them with jobs instead of taking away residents' means of livelihood. (Liputan 6, 18/11/2006)
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