Faisal Maliki Baskoro, Jakarta – Several foreign embassies have issued fresh travel warnings for Indonesia as nationwide protests turned violent and looting spread.
The Australian Embassy on Saturday cautioned about large demonstrations across major cities, including Bali's capital, Denpasar, warning that unrest could escalate into violence and property damage. Australians were advised to avoid protest sites, monitor local media, and expect traffic disruptions.
The unrest began on Aug. 25, when university students staged rallies against lawmakers' controversial pay and benefit increases. Tensions escalated sharply on Thursday after a 21-year-old motorcycle taxi driver, Affan Kurniawan, was killed by a police armored vehicle during a protest in central Jakarta. His death has become a rallying point for demonstrators, intensifying anger toward both parliament and security forces.
Since then, mobs have torched police stations, government vehicles, and public infrastructure, while authorities have responded with tear gas, water cannons, and mass arrests. Rallies have turned violent in several provinces.
The United States Embassy in Jakarta earlier warned of planned demonstrations near the Parliament Building and State Palace on Aug. 28, stating that they could become violent. Authorities closed parts of Jalan Jenderal Gatot Subroto and sections of the city toll road, disrupting traffic through central Jakarta. US citizens were urged to avoid crowds, stay in touch with family, and remain alert in tourist areas.
Singapore's Embassy in Jakarta also advised its nationals to steer clear of anti-government rallies and avoid large gatherings. "You should stay vigilant, monitor developments through the local news and heed instructions by local authorities," the embassy said Saturday on its Facebook post. It encouraged Singaporeans to register with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs e-service while in Indonesia.
The British Embassy echoed similar advice, stating that protests in August had already led to violent clashes and fatalities. "Avoid all protests, demonstrations and student and political rallies as they can become violent without warning," its travel advisory said.
Beyond political unrest, the Australian Embassy highlighted new travel regulations. Beginning September 1, all international passengers arriving at Indonesia's busiest airports – Soekarno-Hatta in Jakarta, Ngurah Rai in Bali, and Juanda in Surabaya – must complete the new All Indonesia Arrival Card. The requirement will extend to all international airports from October 1. Travelers must submit the card online at least 48 hours before departure, linking it to the country's e-Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) system.
The embassy also warned of common risks for tourists in Bali and other destinations, including drownings at unpatrolled beaches, drink spiking, and methanol poisoning in alcoholic beverages. Visitors were reminded to respect local culture and laws, with the Bali government enforcing stricter "do's and don'ts" for foreigners.
Volcanic activity at Mt. Lewotobi Laki-Laki in East Nusa Tenggara has added another layer of uncertainty, with officials cautioning that flights between Australia and Bali could be disrupted by ash clouds.
Australian officials also reminded travelers that Indonesian authorities enforce strict passport standards. Even minor water damage, rips, or tears may result in denial of entry.
Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/foreign-embassies-urge-caution-as-protests-spread-across-indonesi