Protests in Indonesia started after a delivery driver, Affan Kurniawan, was killed during demonstrations. People were angry about the rising cost of living and unfair treatment of workers. At least 10 people have died in the protests so far.
Many delivery riders, like those working for Grab and Gojek, are part of the protests. To help them, people in neighboring countries like Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, and Thailand are ordering food for Indonesian riders through delivery apps. Some even tell the riders they can keep the food or share it with friends and family.
One supporter, Tara from the Philippines, ordered meals and water for riders in Jakarta. She said she wanted to help because riders are friendly and hardworking. A Malaysian student, Ayman, said he admired how Indonesians work together to fight against injustice.
Riders in Indonesia have been touched by this support. Taufik, a delivery rider in Jakarta, said the food orders helped because many restaurants and roads are closed during the protests. Some riders shared the food with friends. One video showed a rider crying while thanking a donor from Singapore.
Grab and Gojek reported more orders coming from users outside Indonesia. These apps are very popular in Southeast Asia, and many delivery riders wear green uniforms. Around 1.5 million riders work in Indonesia, including part-timers.
The protests started on 25 August in Jakarta over high pay and benefits for politicians. After Affan’s death, anger grew, spreading to other cities and islands. President Prabowo Subianto and the police apologized and promised to reduce some perks, but protests are still happening.
Through the support of people from other countries, delivery riders feel cared for, showing that small acts of kindness can help during difficult times.
-Peace News Desk