JAKARTA - Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Mendiktisaintek) Brian Yuliarto expressed his regret over the tear gas incident at the Bandung Islamic University (Unisba) campus on Monday evening (September 1).
"I deplore the tear gas incident at the Bandung Islamic University (Unisba) campus on September 1, 2025, which can be interpreted as an attack on the campus's safe space," said Mendiktisaintek in a statement reported by ANTARA on Tuesday, September 2.
Mendiktisaintek Brian emphasized that the campus is a free, independent, and safe academic space for expressing aspirations.
"Mendiktisaintek is a home for students. As Mendiktisaintek, I am both a parent and a friend of students. The door of communication is always open for various aspirations, academic issues, and student dynamics," he said.
As conveyed by Unisba Rector Harits Nu'man, Minister Brian believes that security forces have made efforts to ensure that irresponsible outsiders leave the campus area.
He reiterated that student voices are an important part of the nation's pulse.
Minister Brian also emphasized that the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology is committed to ensuring campuses become spaces for sharing, growth, and safe spaces to express aspirations.
"If demonstrations continue, let us close ranks peacefully, safeguarding the dignity of the student movement so that it is not exploited by parties seeking to undermine the republic. I also invite university leaders throughout Indonesia to open spaces for dialogue, listen directly to student aspirations, and make their campuses the best examples in maintaining a healthy and dignified democracy, by always prioritizing dialogue and persuasive measures," said the Minister of Education, Science, and Technology.
Previously, Unisba stated that the riot that occurred on Jalan Tamansari, Bandung City, on Monday (September 1) evening, was infiltrated by an unknown group after the student demonstration concluded at the West Java Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD) Building.
Unisba Rector Harits Nu'man confirmed that the riot was not carried out by students, but by an unknown group that sparked the commotion on Jalan Tamansari.
"Their actions were not those of students. We interpret the shooting as an attempt to disperse the crowd. This was a public area, not a campus," he said.
Disclaimer:
This report is for public information purposes, to ensure the public's right to know is maintained. The VOI editorial team rejects violence, destruction, arson, or looting, because this nation will only be strong if we faithfully protect each other, maintain public facilities, and keep businesses running to prevent further economic decline. Remain calm, do not be provoked, make this country a safe home for all of us, and prioritize credible sources of information.
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