The East Java Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) Chairman Meets Airlangga University (Unair) Student Protesters Despite Heavy Rain

The Chairman of the East Java DPRD, Musyafak Rouf, showed openness by directly meeting with the students of Airlangga University (Unair) who staged a protest in front of the East Java DPRD building on Tuesday (19/8/2025).

Despite heavy rain along Jalan Indrapura, Musyafak left his office to engage in dialogue with the students. His presence as the chairman of the provincial legislature was met with loud chants from the demonstrators.

Accompanied by the East Java DPRD Secretary, Ali Kuncoro, he emphasized the importance of respecting students aspirations expressed in an orderly and peaceful manner.

“I believe we must value their presence as legitimate aspirations submitted to the East Java Provincial DPRD,” Musyafak said.

He noted that most of the demands raised by the students fell under the authority of the central government. Several policies, he added, are already being implemented or are under evaluation.

“Of course, all the matters presented fall under the authority and domain of the central government which is the House of Representatives of the Republic of Indonesia (DPR RI) and the President since they concern policies that are already in place, ongoing, or under review,” he explained.

However, Musyafak emphasized that the students' input should not be ignored, as it reflects from the realities faced by society.

“I believe the input from the Student Executive Bodies (BEM) cannot be disregarded, as it arises from actual conditions in our communities. These concerns are not fabricated; they reflect the real situations people are experiencing,” he stated.

He added that the East Java DPRD is committed to forwarding these aspirations to the relevant authorities so they do not stop at the regional level.

“Therefore, we appreciate them and will continue to do so in accordance with the authority we hold,” said Musyafak.

It was noted that among the issues raised by students during the protest were the Draft Criminal Procedure Code (RKUHAP), the rewriting of history, education budget allocations, and the evaluation of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program.