Thousands demand stronger anti-corruption measures at Jakarta parliament rally

Thousands of Indonesians marched to parliament in Jakarta on Wednesday, voicing demands for enhanced legal measures to combat corruption across government and the private sector. The protesters, assembled outside the legislative building, called for stricter penalties for officials and business figures convicted of graft-related offences.

Corruption has long plagued Indonesia's institutions, undermining public confidence in government effectiveness and economic development. The demonstration underscores persistent public concern over inadequate enforcement mechanisms and what many view as lenient sentencing for high-level corruption cases.

Parliamentary officials acknowledged the protesters' presence, though it remained unclear whether lawmakers would formally address the demands or introduce new anti-corruption legislation in response. Indonesia's anti-corruption commission has pursued several high-profile cases in recent years, though critics argue enforcement remains inconsistent.

The rally represents the latest in a series of civil society efforts to pressure Indonesian authorities to strengthen their approach to combating endemic corruption. Organisers emphasised the need for systemic reforms to prevent officials from exploiting their positions for personal gain.