South East Asians Unite in Support of Indonesian Protesters Through Delivery Apps
The streets of Indonesia have been ablaze with protests following the tragic killing of a delivery rider, sparking a wave of solidarity among South East Asians. Neighbors in Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, and Thailand are utilizing popular delivery apps like Grab and Gojek to order food in Indonesia, showing support for the delivery riders who have played a key role in the demonstrations.
Last week, the death of Gojek driver Affan Kurniawan ignited public fury, resulting in clashes with authorities and the torching of government buildings. The protests, centered around the high cost of living and social inequality, have claimed the lives of at least 10 individuals across multiple Indonesian cities.
The hashtag #SEAblings has gained traction on social media as people in neighboring countries rally behind Indonesian protesters and delivery riders. Social media users have been sharing guides on how to help, encouraging others to place food orders on Grab and Gojek in Indonesia and allow the delivery riders to keep the food or share it with their loved ones.
Tara, a 34-year-old from the Philippines, has personally ordered food and supplies for delivery riders in Jakarta, inspired by her interactions with motorcycle taxis in South East Asia. She has translated a guide into Tagalog to urge fellow Filipinos to support Indonesians in their time of need.
Another supporter, 21-year-old Malaysian student Ayman Hareez Muhammad Adib, commended the Indonesian people for their courage in standing up against injustice. He decided to order food for Indonesians as a symbol of solidarity and admiration for their unity in the face of adversity.
Delivery rider Taufik, based in West Jakarta, received an order from a user in Singapore, providing much-needed support during a period of reduced orders due to the ongoing protests. Expressing gratitude for the overseas assistance, Taufik highlighted the importance of such gestures in sustaining their livelihoods.
While the exact number of participants in the support drive remains uncertain, reports indicate a surge in orders from users outside Indonesia, particularly in Southeast and East Asia. Grab has noted an increase in activity, reflecting the widespread backing for Indonesian protesters and delivery riders.
Grab and Gojek serve as vital platforms for ordering food, groceries, and transportation services in South East Asia, with a significant portion of orders fulfilled by a vast network of motorcycle delivery riders. These riders, estimated to reach up to 1.5 million, play a crucial role in meeting the demands of users across the region.
The protests, initially sparked by economic grievances and discontent with the political establishment, escalated following the tragic death of Affan Kurniawan during a delivery assignment. Despite apologies from President Prabowo Subianto and the police chief, public unrest has persisted, spreading to various parts of Indonesia and prompting calls for reform.
As demonstrations continue to unfold, with women taking a prominent role in recent gatherings, the spirit of solidarity and support among South East Asians remains unwavering. Through acts of kindness and generosity, individuals from different nations are coming together to stand with Indonesian protesters in their fight for a better future.
