Indonesian president cancels Australia trip after clashes

Indonesian President Joko Widodo has been forced to postponed his visit to Australia today due to a security situation in the capital Jakarta following violence at a huge protest by Muslims against Jakarta's governor, who they say insulted the Koran.

"Looking at the latest situation and condition in Indonesia that require the presence of the president, President Joko Widodo decided to postpone his scheduled state visit to Australia," a statement from the President’s office said.

Thousands of Muslims demanded the resignation of Jakarta's governor, Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, a Christian and the first ethnic Chinese to hold the position, over allegations that he had insulted the Koran.

Clashes erupted during the protest and one person was killed and more than 90 were injured, many of them police officers, Indonesian national police spokesman said.

Three vehicles were burned and 18 damaged, the spokesman added. "This is an example of the shocking attacks by these anarchists."

On Saturday morning, most protesters appeared to have dispersed, military officers were seen resting and workers were fixing some damaged facilities at the National Monument.