Malaysia Must Heed Lessons From Indonesia S Protests Say Fadillah And Rafizi

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DEPUTY Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof and PKR lawmaker Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli have both urged Malaysians, especially political leaders, to draw lessons from Indonesia’s recent wave of protests, stressing the importance of stability, fair wages, and responsible governance.
Speaking at the Kembara Segulai Sejalai Belia Sarawak 2025 programme on Saturday, Fadillah said the demonstrations across Indonesia highlighted the dangers of instability. He warned that anger fuelled by divisive narratives could quickly turn peaceful protests violent, undermining harmony and economic growth.
“Look at what happened in our neighbouring country. Various narratives were played up until people became angry and took to the streets. Stability and peace are crucial to managing a country well. When our economy is strong, investors will come, jobs will be created, and people must remain united,” he said.
(Photo credit: Bernama) 
Meanwhile, Rafizi, who is also the former economy minister, offered a different but complementary perspective. In a statement, he said Indonesia’s unrest underscored how economic growth figures alone are not enough if ordinary citizens feel excluded from the benefits.
He cautioned that Malaysia could face similar frustrations if wages stagnate while living costs rise and elites flaunt their wealth.
“If the people see politicians, who are not vastly different from them in terms of education or skills, suddenly living lavishly because of their positions, they will feel disgusted and angry,” he said.
“The same goes for individuals seen as close to those in power, or perceived cronies. If their abilities and efforts are modest but they are suddenly wealthy and excessively luxurious, the people will resent it, and the ruling elite will be tainted by it.
“Don’t be angry if I continue to speak up and give reminders about certain things happening of late, because our people, too, are constantly watching the elite among politicians, their families, and their associates,” he added.
Both leaders’ remarks come amid heightened scrutiny of Indonesia’s handling of protests, which were sparked by parliamentary allowance proposals and escalated after the death of a student protester. —  Focus Malaysia

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