Yogyakarta, Aug. 30 -- Yogyakarta Sultan and Governor Hamengkubuwono X met with protesters early Saturday morning, urging calm and calling for peaceful democratic practices amid ongoing unrest in the province.

Arriving at the provincial police office at 1 a.m. local time, Hamengkubuwono's visit was marked by the "Gending Raja Manggala" chant, traditionally played during royal visits.

"I respect your actions. What you seek is part of our shared goal for democracy in Yogyakarta, which I also support," the Sultan told the protesters.

He emphasized, however, that the democratization process must remain peaceful, highlighting that the province has a long-standing tradition of non-violence in its political development.

"I hope democratizati...