Wave of Anger: Jakarta Protests Over Perks and Tragedy

Mass protests have erupted in Indonesia against parliamentary benefits and the policies of President Prabowo Subianto.
Photo: bloomberg.com
The decision to grant MPs a housing allowance of 50 million rupiah per month (about 3,000 US dollars), nearly ten times the minimum wage in Jakarta, was the trigger. Amid the austerity program announced for 2025, including cuts in education, healthcare, and infrastructure spending, this privilege drew justified outrage. Additionally, the protests were fueled by multimillion-dollar investments in new fighter jets, rising food prices, attempts to suppress government critics, and ongoing financial rewards for the elite against the backdrop of struggling social structures such as hospitals, schools, and public transport.
The demonstrations began on August 25, 2025, in Jakarta, where thousands of students, workers, and activists gathered at the parliament building. Police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse the protesters. Roads around Senayan, including several toll roads, were blocked, causing huge traffic jams. Stones and bottles were thrown during clashes, and protesters set fire to trash under an overpass. Besides the capital, mass protests are occurring in other cities across the country.
On August 28, the situation escalated: a police armored vehicle in Jakarta fatally ran over a 21-year-old online taxi driver, Afan Kurniawan. He was returning from a trip and, according to witnesses, was not involved in the protest. The incident sparked outrage. The head of the police apologized, seven special unit officers were questioned, and the authorities promised an investigation. President Prabowo publicly urged the police to act with restraint.
Kurniawan's death intensified the protest sentiment. New memorial actions took place in Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Surakarta, joined by ojol drivers demanding justice. Student organizations declared they would not stop until the benefits are revoked and those responsible for the driver's death are held accountable.
If you are traveling to Jakarta, try to be cautious and check your routes in advance to avoid areas with large gatherings of protesters. It may be dangerous. Protests are likely to continue for some time, so keep this factor in mind.
Sources: detik, bisnis
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