DEPUTY Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has expressed his full confidence in Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s ability to address the ongoing wave of protests in Indonesia.
Speaking to reporters after the Malaysia #QuranHour 2025 programme at the National Mosque in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday, Ahmad Zahid emphasised that Malaysia does not intend to interfere in the internal affairs of any nation but, as a regional partner and ASEAN Chair, believes Prabowo’s leadership will restore stability through negotiations and diplomacy.
“Most importantly, there is no issue that cannot be resolved. Everything can be brought to the negotiation table... there is no need for protests or demonstrations,” he said. “We do not wish to interfere in the affairs of any country, especially a neighbouring one. I believe the President is approachable, and God willing, many issues—whether big or small—can be resolved through discussions.”
Ahmad Zahid also urged ASEAN to continue fostering dialogue and mutual understanding as the foundation for long-lasting regional peace.
Indonesia is currently grappling with large-scale protests following the death of an e-hailing motorcyclist who was run over by a police tactical vehicle during a demonstration on 28 August.
The incident sparked domestic political tensions, with public outrage directed at housing allowances for members of the People’s Representative Council (DPR).
Protests have escalated, and on Saturday, at least three people were reported dead in a fire sparked by demonstrators at a municipal building in Makassar, eastern Indonesia. - August 30, 2025
