Jakarta, ThedailyID — Hundreds of students and civil society members gathered in front of the Faculty of Economics and Business at Universitas Airlangga on Thursday, June 11 to voice concerns over Indonesia’s economic conditions.
The demonstration responded to what participants described as growing economic pressures on the public. It also aimed to support seven economic recommendations previously submitted by economists to the government in September 2025.
Participants filled the area outside the faculty building while carrying posters and delivering speeches. They later read a joint statement outlining their concerns and demands.
Yeni Mafrukah, Head of the Strategic Studies and Action Department of the Faculty’s Student Executive Board, said the protest reflected students’ commitment to addressing issues affecting the wider community.
“We want to encourage everyone who still supports the nation’s economic ideals to urge the government to follow up on the seven recommendations proposed by economists,” Yeni said during the event.
Yeni noted that the gathering was open to the public and included participants from outside Airlangga University.
Students from several campuses joined the demonstration, including representatives from the Student Executive Board of State University of Surabaya. Civil society groups also took part in the event.
In their statement, participants highlighted several challenges facing the national economy. They pointed to the weakening rupiah, rising living costs, limited job opportunities, higher fuel prices, declining purchasing power, and widening socio-economic inequality.
Moreover, Yeni stressed that remaining silent was not an option for academics and students amid current economic conditions.
“Silence is not a form of support. Staying silent does not mean we agree with the economic difficulties currently affecting Indonesia,” she said.
Student demonstrations addressing national issues have recently taken place in several cities, including Bandung and Jakarta.
Despite the protest, organizers said they have no immediate plans to stage larger street demonstrations. Instead, they will continue discussions and coordination before deciding on future actions.
“We will discuss further actions if the situation becomes more urgent. For now, we will continue consolidating and evaluating our next steps,” Yeni added.
