M'sians advised to avoid hotspots in Jakarta as riots rage

PETALING JAYA: Malaysians in Jakarta have been advised to avoid locations where deadly mass gatherings are taking place in the Indonesian capital, says the Malaysian embassy in Indonesia.

The hot spots named were Tanah Abang, Thamrin, Sabang and Menteng.

"Continue to get the latest information from verified local news sources," the embassy said, urging all Malaysians to follow instructions from local authorities.

At least six people have died in riots which broke out in Jakarta following a rally on Wednesday (May 22) after official results confirmed President Joko Widodo's re-election, with his rival Prabowo Subianto of Gerindra Party refusing to accept the results.

The statement that was posted on Twitter on Wednesday (May 22) was also accompanied by a photo of a consular notice advising Malaysians planning to visit the country.

"As usual, Malaysian citizens who plan to visit any other foreign country are advised to obtain travel insurance suited to their respective needs.

"Malaysian citizens who are planning to visit Indonesia are asked to register with the embassy at the following online link: goo.gl/ixYVfy.

Malaysians who need emergency consular assistance in Indonesia can contact the embassy by telephone at [phone] or [phone] or by email to [e-mail].