Protest Against TNI Law Amendment Ends in Chaos

A presentation in Malang, East Java, against the recently ratified amendment to the TNI (Tentara Nasional Indonesia – Indonesian National Military) Law, descended into chaos on Sunday, March 23rd. What began as a peaceful gathering turned violent as protesters clashed with authorities.

Timeline of Escalation

According to reports from the Post Malang Legal Aid institute (LBH), the demonstration commenced peacefully around 3:45 PM local time in front of the Malang City Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD) Building. However, tensions escalated sharply around 6:20 PM when a large group of protesters forcibly entered the DPRD building thru the north entrance.

Authorities Respond with Force

The situation deteriorated further as law enforcement,including both police and TNI personnel,initiated a sweep of the area surrounding Malang city Hall,Jl. Suropati, Jl. Sultan Agung, and Jl. Pajajaran. The LBH Post Malang reported that this operation began approximately ten to twenty minutes after the breach of the DPRD building.

At 18.30-18.40 (10-20 minutes later), the police together with the TNI began to sweep up and repel the masses around Malang City Hall, Jl. Suropati, Jl. Sultan Agung to Jl.Pajajaran.

LBH Post Malang statement

Reports indicate that authorities, some equipped with batons, also conducted sweeps along Jl. Gajahmada.

Arrests, Injuries, and Missing Persons

Wafdul Adif, a member of the LBH Pos Malang Legal Aid Team, stated that as of Monday morning, approximately six protesters had been arrested. He also alleged instances of beatings and threats against those arrested, as well as against medical personnel, press, and legal assistants present at the scene.

A number of action mass were arrested,beaten and received threats. The medical team, press and legal assistants who were on standby also found the beating.

Wafdul Adif, LBH Pos Malang Legal Aid Team

Moreover, it is indeed reported that between eight and ten protesters are currently unaccounted for, according to fellow demonstrators. Approximately six to seven protesters were reportedly hospitalized due to injuries sustained during the clashes.

LBH Post Malang estimates that dozens of individuals, including protesters, medical personnel, and journalists, sustained injuries during the unrest.

DPRD Response and Unmet Dialog

Despite the chaotic scenes, the Malang City DPRD has stated its willingness to address the concerns of the protesters regarding the TNI Law. Rimzah,Deputy Chairman of the Malang City DPRD,stated that the council is prepared to facilitate discussions and relay the protesters’ concerns to the central government.

We are ready to except,we are ready to accommodate. In principle, we are ready to build a joint narration voicing the proposal and we are voiced.

Rimzah, Deputy Chairman of malang City DPRD

However, a planned audience with the protesters was reportedly cancelled due to the volatile situation. Rimzah indicated that while the council had allocated space for dialogue, a “meeting point” could not be established.

The contentious TNI Law: A Brief Overview

the specific details of the amended TNI Law that sparked the protests remain a point of contention. Generally,such laws often deal with the military’s role in domestic affairs,its budget,and its relationship with civilian authorities. Amendments can be especially sensitive if they are perceived to expand the military’s power or reduce civilian oversight. For example, in some countries, debates rage over the military’s involvement in policing or internal security matters.

As of 2024, public trust in the TNI remains relatively high in Indonesia, but concerns about potential overreach and accountability are frequently voiced by civil society organizations. The current situation highlights the need for transparent dialogue and careful consideration of the implications of any changes to the legal framework governing the military.

Ongoing Investigation

As of this report, Archnetys News has been unable to independently verify the exact number of protesters arrested or missing. We are actively seeking comment from the Malang police regarding these reports and will provide updates as they become available.