Violence erupts in Indonesia; President Prabowo cancels China visit

Violent protests in Indonesia have intensified, prompting President Prabowo Subianto to cancel his scheduled visit to China, 24NewsHD TV channel reported on Sunday.

According to official reports, the Indonesian leader has also apologised to Chinese President Xi Jinping for being unable to attend the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit.

The decision comes as nationwide demonstrations spiralled out of control, leaving at least three people dead in clashes with security forces. 

The unrest has forced the government to focus entirely on restoring law and order at home.

With the violence showing no signs of slowing, observers warn that the domestic crisis is now overshadowing Indonesia’s diplomatic commitments abroad.