Novali Panji Nugroho, Jakarta – The parliamentary complex in Jakarta remains guarded by military personnel following the wave of protests last August. According to Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, the state defense institution will keep guard until the condition becomes more "conducive."
Minister Sjafrie said on Tuesday, September 16, that the decision was taken after talks with TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto and three chiefs of staff.
Sjafrie said that soldiers are not only stationed to guard the DPR complex, but also other government installations that require military attention. "So people can work safely and comfortably," said the interim Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs.
The Indonesian National Armed Forces, or TNI, is still seen deploying its troops at the parliamentary building until mid-September. Several military tactical vehicles remain parked in the building's yard despite the absence of protests.
Hundreds of military personnel also frequently utilize the building facilities for their daily needs. For example, toilet facilities have been observed being used for bathing, washing, and other purposes.
The soldiers have erected tents in the DPR yard. There are also police forces from the Mobile Brigade (Brimob) units on guard.
Student and labor protests were initially centered in Jakarta on August 25, 2025, to protest the luxurious facilities of lawmakers. But the death of rideshare driver Affan Kurniawan after being crushed by a Brimob vehicle in Bendungan Hilir, Central Jakarta, on August 28, escalated the situation and triggered protests in other regions.
At that time, protests escalated into riots, with reported burning of government buildings, police stations, and public facilities carried out by a group of unidentified individuals.