SOUTH SULAWESI – A number of locations in Indonesia have been besieged by massive demonstrations. The wave of demonstrations has not only shaken the capital, but has also spread to various regions. In Makassar, demonstrations also heated up.
The protesters were demonstrating against the increase in allowances for members of the House of Representatives, and the protest was also held as a show of solidarity for the death of Affan Kurniawan. The unrest escalated after an online motorcycle taxi driver was run over by a Brimob Tactical Vehicle (Rantis) on Thursday (August 28, 2025).
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The protest, which initially took place in front of Makassar State University (UNM), blocked AP Pettarani Road. The crowd burned tires, blocked containers to use as a stage for speeches, and the chaos spread to various locations. Several buildings were set on fire, the situation was out of control, and there were even fatalities.
The chaos continued in front of the Makassar City Council office. The crowd damaged the fence and main gate, then entered the office area. Six motorcycles and a number of cars parked at the location were also set on fire, further escalating the situation.
Occasionally, those who were fighting to voice their aspirations shouted “Revolution, Revolution, Revolution!”
The demonstration by the community and students in front of the Makassar DPRD Office resulted in the burning of the building. Based on observations, at around 10:40 p.m. WITA, the DPRD office began to burn.
The Head of Public Relations and Protocol of the Makassar DPRD, Syahril, said that at least six people were victims of the burning of the Makassar DPRD building. Four of them died, including a photographer and DPRD public relations staff member, Muh Akbar Basri or Abay. It was reported that Abay was trapped in the flames while trying to save his colleague, Sarinawati, who was also found dead in the tragic incident.
Read also: Dompet Dhuafa Expresses Deep Condolences on the Passing of Affan Kurniawan
Amidst the atmosphere of grief that enveloped the area, the Free Health Services (LKC) team from Dompet Dhuafa South Sulawesi, together with Dompet Dhuafa South Sulawesi Branch, provided moral support and direct assistance to the families of the victims. The presence of Dompet Dhuafa serves as a gesture of compassion and an effort to alleviate the burden left behind, while expressing condolences for the tragedy that occurred on Saturday (August 30, 2025).
“Innalillahi Wa Innailaihi Rajiun, Dompet Dhuafa South Sulawesi mourns the passing of Muhammad Akbar Basri (Abay) and other victims following the incident that occurred at the DPRD Office in Makassar, South Sulawesi,” said Heru Pandu Satrio, Head of the Dompet Dhuafa South Sulawesi Branch.
One of Abay’s family members recounted his last message before he passed away via his cell phone.
“He sent a video saying, ‘Please pray for me, I’m sorry if I’ve done anything wrong, I’m trapped on the third floor, I can’t breathe, please send this to my family, friends, and boss,’” said one of Abay’s family members.
One of Abay’s coworkers, Muh Triadi Danial, described Abay as someone who was known for being very friendly toward his fellow staff members.
“He was humble and kind-hearted; he wasn’t arrogant despite having many acquaintances. We can see for ourselves how people respond to a good person—since this morning, people have been coming to pay their respects continuously,” said Triadi.
As the afternoon approached, at 4:10 PM, the LKC Dompet Dhuafa South Sulawesi team resumed their monitoring activities in the demonstration area to anticipate any injuries among the public or students. LKC Dompet Dhuafa South Sulawesi established a medical post to provide medical services in the demonstration area of Makassar City. In addition to financial assistance, seven boxes of mineral water donated by contributors were also distributed to the demonstrators at the site.
This incident serves as a reminder to us all that expressing opinions is everyone’s right. However, let us always ensure that these aspirations are conveyed in a conducive, peaceful, and respectful manner. Because a good voice will be more meaningful when conveyed wisely. (Dompet Dhuafa)
Text and Photos: Anndini, DD South Sulawesi
Editor: Syafira