JakartaPost-Aug 6, 2026
Coordinating Politics and Security Minister Djamari Chaniago has given reassurance that the domestic security situation remains stable and under control ahead of the country’s 81st Independence Day celebration, urging the public not to be influenced by “disinformation” about possible unrest in August. The remark was made during a joint press conference with Indonesian Military (TNI) commander Gen. Agus Subiyanto, National Police Chief Gen. Listyo Sigit Prabowo, National Intelligence Agency (BIN) chief Muhammad Herindra and Attorney General Sanitiar Burhanuddin on Wednesday. “The domestic situation remains secure and fully under control […] We are not being complacent. We continue to monitor all developments [to ensure safety],” Djamari said. He acknowledged that global uncertainty continues to affect countries around the world, including Indonesia, but said the government is working to minimize its impact on the public and ensure government programs can continue without disruption. The remark came amid a rise in social media posts containing unverified claims that large-scale street protests would take place in August on specific dates, fueling concerns that violent unrest similar to the riots driven by economic grievances seen across the country last year could return. Photos and videos of newly-built fences barricading shopping centers, including Kota Kasablanka in South Jakarta and Pakuwon in Bekasi on the outskirts of the capital, have also been making rounds on social media in recent weeks, prompting speculation that businesses were preparing for possible unrest. The fences were removed over the weekend. Djamari said the government has been monitoring the spread of hoaxes and disinformation on social media, including posts and videos falsely depicting violent protests in several parts of the country, warning that netizens who spread such false information could face criminal prosecution. “We will identify the accounts involved. If there are indications that their actions constitute a criminal offense, we will take firm legal action,” he said, adding that the police would enforce the law “without compromise”. He also stressed that videos being circulated online did not depict the current situation, noting that daily life across the country continues as normal, with business activities, public services, shopping centers and traditional markets operating without any disruption. Read more at:
