Jakarta: J Protests across Indonesia, sparked by economic grievances and the tragic death of a ride-hailing driver, have drawn remarkable solidarity from neighboring countries as supporters use food delivery apps to send meals to Indonesian drivers on the frontlines.
The demonstrations intensified after 28-year-old driver Affan Kurniawan was killed when a police armored vehicle ran over him during a rally near parliament in Jakarta. His death has become a rallying point for protesters, symbolizing the struggles of gig economy workers facing low wages and inequality. At least ten people have lost their lives since the unrest began, with reports of excessive force raising alarm among rights groups.
In a show of cross-border empathy, people from Malaysia, Singapore, and other parts of Southeast Asia have turned to platforms like Grab and Gojek to place food orders for Indonesian drivers. Grab confirmed a sharp increase in overseas orders through its “Treat Your Driver” feature, which has become a symbolic means of expressing support. Social media campaigns such as #SolidaritiIndonesia and #KitaJiran have amplified the movement, with viral posts offering step-by-step instructions on how to send meals, some attracting tens of millions of views.
Meanwhile, women in Jakarta have emerged as prominent leaders in the protests. Hundreds marched in pink clothing, wielding brooms to symbolize a sweeping away of corruption and repression. The Alliance of Indonesian Women organized the demonstration, demanding accountability from authorities and reforms to address inequality.
President Prabowo Subianto’s administration has taken a firm stance, deploying police and military forces to contain the protests. However, the heavy-handed response has prompted widespread criticism. Indonesia’s National Commission for Human Rights and the United Nations have both urged independent investigations into allegations of excessive police violence.
The demonstrations are not only about Kurniawan’s death but also broader frustrations over lawmakers’ generous housing allowances during a time of economic hardship. Delivery drivers, seen as symbols of working-class struggle, have become central figures in a growing movement demanding systemic change.
The wave of support from across Asia underscores how digital platforms and grassroots solidarity are reshaping protest movements. As food deliveries continue to flow into Indonesia, the unrest highlights both the fragility of public trust in government and the potential of regional unity in advancing calls for justice and equality.