Indonesian president postpones Australia visit after Jakarta protests

Published Sat, Nov 5, 2016 · 05:31 AM

[MELBOURNE] Indonesia's President Joko Widodo has canceled his visit to Australia due to "the security situation in Jakarta", following following clashes at a rally by hardline Muslims, Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said in a statement on Saturday.

Tens of thousands of hardline Muslims rallied in Jakarta on Friday to demand the resignation of the Christian governor of the capital, Jakarta, over allegations of blasphemy. The clashes left one person dead and 12 wounded.

Mr Joko had planned to visit Australia on Sunday for bilateral meetings and was scheduled to address the Australian parliament on Monday.

REUTERS

BT is now on Telegram!

For daily updates on weekdays and specially selected content for the weekend. Subscribe to  t.me/BizTimes

International

SUPPORT SOUTH-EAST ASIA'S LEADING FINANCIAL DAILY

Get the latest coverage and full access to all BT premium content.

SUBSCRIBE NOW

Browse corporate subscription here