Travel warning issued for Indonesia as political tensions rise

Australians are being warned to exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to Indonesia, including popular destinations Bali, Surabaya and Jakarta, after violent riots broke out following the official announcement of the country’s election result on Tuesday.

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) updated its travel advice for Indonesia on its Smartraveller website.

“Indonesian authorities have advised there is an increased risk of violence, including possible acts of terrorism, before and after the election result announcement,” DFAT says.

The department has also advised Australians to avoid protests, demonstrations and rallies, “as these can turn violent without warning”, and monitor local media for updates.

“Demonstrations have been held recently near the Australian Embassy in Jakarta and the Australian Consulate-General in Surabaya, in recent times. Protests may continue at the Embassy in Jakarta or occur at any of Australia’s Consulates-General in Surabaya, Bali and Makassar. Be aware of your surroundings.”

#Indonesia: We’ve reviewed our travel advice & included new information. The advice level remains the same. Exercise a high degree of caution. Avoid protests, demonstrations & rallies as these can turn violent without warning. #be informed #beprepared. https://t.co/bgShBIax2O

— Smartraveller (@Smartraveller) May 22, 2019

The updated advice comes after six people have died and 200 have been injured during wild rallies in Jakarta against the re-election of President Joko Widodo.

Travellers are also being urged to reconsider their need to travel to Poso Regency in Central Sulawesi and Papua Province.

Have your holiday plans been affected by this travel warning?