JAKARTA – To borrow a beautiful quote from Project Multatuli, “During his lifetime, Affan was not a talkative person. He tended to be quiet. But his death sparked an uproar. An uproar that mobilized the masses, that made us refuse to accept all this just like that.”
Innalillahi wainnailaihi rojiun.
Still in the month of independence, Indonesia mourns again amid the struggle for justice. That night, Thursday (August 28, 2025), Jakarta was still bustling with mass demonstrations in the Pejompongan area, Bendungan Hilir, Central Jakarta. Yet amidst the chaos, a young man named Affan Kurniawan—a 21-year-old online ride-hailing driver—carried out his simple routine: delivering food orders to support his family.
Unfortunately, that trip was his last. Affan fell amid the chaos and was run over by a Barracuda tactical vehicle. He was rushed to the hospital, but his life could not be saved. The news of Affan’s death not only shook the hearts of his family and fellow motorcycle taxi drivers, but also touched the conscience of many people, especially the Indonesian public.
This tragedy sparked a wave of grief. Although it was his last journey, this tragedy opened many eyes and started a new chapter. Not only the public, but humanitarian organizations also took action. Dompet Dhuafa also expressed its deepest condolences.
Today, Friday (08/29/2025), the public and the ojol driver community flocked to accompany Affan’s body to his final resting place at the Karet Bivak Cemetery. Thousands of motorcycles lined up, cries of “Don’t run us over again!” and prayers were offered along the way. On social media, the hashtag #JusticeForAffan trended, expressing solidarity.
“Affan is a symbol of millions of hardworking young people striving for their families. This loss is not only a tragedy for the family but also a wound for the nation. We deeply mourn his passing, while praying for the deceased and strengthening his family,” said Dian Mulyadi, Deputy Director of Corporate Secretary at Dompet Dhuafa.
This tragedy serves as an important reminder of the value of humanity. In every mass action, the safety of civilians must be a priority. As a form of concern, Dompet Dhuafa helped distribute aid to Affan’s family, provided medical response and ambulance services, and even escorted them to the funeral.
Now, Affan has passed away, leaving behind his family and unfulfilled aspirations. However, his presence on the city streets, his perseverance in earning a living, and the solidarity he inspired after his passing, remain an enduring legacy.
Let us unite and lift our prayers for Nusantara to recover swiftly. Safety is a right for everyone. Let us protect one another, safeguard each other, and ensure that spaces for expression remain safe for all.
Farewell, Affan. Thank you for being a symbol of the struggle for justice on the streets that must be upheld. (Dompet Dhuafa)
Text: Dhika
Cover Photo & 2: Adrian Mulya, Rangga Firmansyah (Project Multatuli)
Photo 3: Special
Photos 4-6: Dompet Dhuafa
Editor: Dedi Fadlil