Home » Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat is Closed to Anticipate Protest

Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat is Closed to Anticipate Protest

Yohana Hoetama
15:55, 9 Sep 2022

9^th September 2022 – Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat, Central Jakarta, is temporarily closed to anticipate fuel oil price hike protests on Friday (9/9). There are brick blockades, barbed wires, and water barriers that fortify the street right below the Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat pedestrian bridge (JPO).

A couple of roads have been forced to closed off due to protests. Some of the roads are the Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat, Jalan Medan Merdeka Utara, Jalan Majapahit, and Jalan Veteran III.

Vehicles from Jalan Hayam Wuruk will not be able to pass Jalan Majapahit located right beside Istana Merdeka. All vehicles will be automatically redirected left to Jalan Juanda.

Vehicles from Jalan MH Thamrin will not be able to pass Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat, Jalan Medan Merdeka Selatan, or Jalan Budi Kemuliaan, as the point of protest is around Patung Kuda.

Nevertheless, the traffic around the Patung Kuda Arjuna Wijaya area is monitored smoothly for now.

Protests from the citizens are a response to the increase in the price of three types of fuel as of Saturday (3/9) at 2:30 PM WIB.

“Currently, the Government has made a decision in this difficult situation. This is the Government’s last option, which is to divert fuel subsidies which causes the prices of several types of fuel will be adjusted,” said Joko Widodo at a press conference broadcast through the Presidential Secretariat’s YouTube channel on Saturday.

Currently, the price for pertalite raised from IDR 7,650 to IDR 10,000 per litre. Subsidized diesel raised from IDR 5,150 to IDR 6,800 per litre, and pertamax from IDR 12,500 to IDR 14,500 per litre.

Sri Mulyani Indrawati, the finance minister, point out that if the price of subsidized fuel does not increase, the burden on the state budget will be heavier next year. This consideration has taken into account the world oil price trends, rupiah exchange rate, and consumption of petalite and biodiesel that exceeded the quota. It is estimated that the number of subsidies and compensation is around IDR 698 trillion by the end of the year if subsidized fuel prices are maintained.

Content Writer

An escapist yet realistic, Yohana tends to keep her feet on the ground and head above the clouds. A culture enthusiast with impulsive tendencies when it comes to knowledge and food. She starts her writing journey during high school as a hobby at first, before it grows into passion and love.

See More Articles From Yohana Hoetama >>

NTT Earthquake: Death Toll Reaches 68 as Thousands of Homes Are Damaged

The death toll from the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) on Saturday, 15 August 2026, has risen to 68, with 213 people reported injured, according to Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), as reported by ANTARA News. The earthquake struck Flores early on Saturday morning, with its epicentre near Nagekeo in […]

What Expatriates in Jakarta Should Expect from Their First Dental Visit and How to Prepare

Moving to a new city such as Jakarta involves many adjustments, including navigating the healthcare system. For expatriates, dental care is often one of the first services they seek, whether for routine check-ups, preventive care or urgent treatment. Understanding what to expect and how to prepare can make the experience smoother, safer and more reassuring. […]

The Best Bar Jakarta Guide: 10 Best Bars from Rooftop Bars to Speakeasy Bars

Jakarta’s nightlife continues to evolve, offering everything from sophisticated rooftop lounges to intimate hidden cocktail bars. Are you looking for panoramic skyline views, expertly crafted drinks, live entertainment, or an elegant setting for a special evening? There is always a venue to suit every occasion. Many of the Jakarta best bars focus on more than […]

Best Expat Events in August to Expand Your Social Network

Looking for the best expat event August has to offer? This month, Social Expat presents an exciting line-up of social gatherings and business networking experiences designed for internationals, professionals, entrepreneurs, and locals who enjoy meeting new people. Whether you’re new to Jakarta, visiting Indonesia, or already part of the thriving expat community, these events provide […]