OVER the weekend in Jakarta, Indonesia, the nation’s attention was drawn not only to the escalating protests but also to the presence of Indonesian transgender celebrity Lucinta Luna.
The singer, actress and comedian went viral on social media after footages emerged showing her marching alongside demonstrators outside the House of Representatives (DPR).
In her Instagram post on Aug 30, Lucinta was seen fully immersed in the crowd, leading chants, delivering speeches and raising a megaphone during the ongoing protests against the Indonesian government.
Her involvement captured the focus of both protestors and online viewers alike.
Dressed in a military-green camouflage jumpsuit paired with a Gojek helmet, a tribute to the late Affan Kurniawan, a delivery rider killed during the protests, Lucinta addressed the crowd, calling on politicians to stop exploiting the public through taxes and urging them to show humility towards the less fortunate.
She called on fellow celebrities and social media influencers to stand with the people rather than remain silent, while reminding demonstrators to stay safe and keep their cause in mind.
Lucinta was surrounded by crowds of protesters as she joined their chants, with many expressing their support as she raised her voice, calling for the dissolution of DPR.
"Dissolve the DPR and all of its members. Don't manipulate the people with the taxes and have mercy on them. As for all the DPR members, don't be arrogant!
"To my fellow artistes, Instagram and TikTok celebrities, where are you? Come down here and don't stay silent," she said during the protest on Saturday.
Beyond her speeches, Lucinta waved a flag featuring an image from the One Piece anime, symbolising social criticism, protest against injustice and hope for change.
This gesture quickly became a viral moment, with many protestors approaching her for selfies, amplifying her visibility on social media.
Lucinta was not alone in lending her voice. Other notable figures such as former national basketball player Denny Sumargo, musician Reza Oktovian, hip-hop artist Young Lex, popular YouTuber Atta Halilintar and actress-singer Cinta Laura also joined the protests, highlighting the broad appeal and growing support from Indonesia’s public figures.
These demonstrations have shaken Indonesia nationwide over the past week, sparked by public anger towards lawmakers’ extravagant perks including a monthly housing allowance of Rp 50 million (approximately $USD 3,075), nearly ten times Jakarta’s minimum wage.
Tensions also boiled over after the tragic death of 21-year-old Affan, who was fatally hit by an armoured police vehicle near the parliament.
The incident intensified outrage, leading to the torching of regional legislative buildings, vandalism of public property and reports of looting in several cities.
The unrest has already claimed at least seven lives and left hundreds injured amid clashes with police.