Hundreds of students rallied in Tanjungpinang, pressing lawmakers on urgent reforms.
A tense student protest erupted in front of the Riau Islands (Kepri) Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) in Tanjungpinang on Monday, September 1, 2025. Demonstrators delivered 13 critical demands aimed at reshaping government accountability, tax policies, and social programs.
Protest Highlights and Escalation
The protest, led by the Tanjungpinang-Bintan Student Alliance, BEM representatives, and Cipayung Plus Kepri, gathered hundreds in front of the DPRD building. Tensions rose as students attempted to enter the premises, demanding lawmakers hear their voices directly. Coordinators described the action as part of a national movement under the theme “Save Indonesia.”
Thirteen Demands from Students
The demonstrators voiced a series of grievances reflecting broad discontent with government policies. Their key demands included:
- Reform of police institutions and accountability in handling protests.
- Firm action from President Prabowo Subianto on national unrest.
- Revocation of additional allowances for DPR RI members.
- Strong opposition to burdensome tax hikes.
- Rejection of military emergency discourse that could silence democracy.
Specific Policy Concerns
Students also urged the DPRD Kepri to take a stance on the controversial Asset Confiscation Bill. They criticized the Makan Bergizi Gratis (Free Nutritious Meals) program, suggesting that funds be redirected to support teachers and education staff instead. Tax reform was another major issue, with calls to raise non-taxable income thresholds (PTKP) and abolish taxes on severance pay, holiday allowances, and retirement savings.
DPRD Kepri’s Response
DPRD Kepri Chairman Iman Sutiawan met with the demonstrators after the situation grew heated. He assured them that several of their demands align with the council’s position. “These demands will be forwarded to the DPR RI for further discussion and included in DPRD Kepri’s plenary session,” Sutiawan stated.
Public and Security Oversight
The rally unfolded under tight police supervision. While initially tense, the protest remained largely peaceful after the students were allowed to convey their points inside the legislative building. Their persistence highlighted widespread frustration with what they see as heavy-handed governance and misplaced budget priorities.
Wider Implications
The protest in Kepri reflects broader unrest in Indonesia, where students and civic groups are pushing back against policies viewed as undemocratic or burdensome. For Indonesians, the outcome could shape public trust in political institutions. For neighboring Singapore, developments in nearby Tanjungpinang spotlight the region’s political volatility, which could influence cross-border relations and economic stability.
The Kepri student protest signals growing resistance to policies that affect daily life, from tax burdens to social spending. By raising 13 specific demands, students are positioning themselves as a driving force in shaping governance. Whether these calls result in meaningful reforms depends on how seriously national and regional leaders address the grievances.
Sources: Batam Pos (2025) , Batamnews (2025)
Keywords: Kepri Student Protest, 13 Demands, DPRD Kepri, Riau Islands Demonstration, Indonesia Reform, Tanjungpinang Rally
