Key Facts
• August 31, 2025: President Prabowo Subianto announced cuts to lawmakers’ allowances.
• Protests erupted over a $450 monthly housing allowance increase for lawmakers.
• Annual allowances now 10 times Jakarta’s minimum wage.
• August 28: A 21-year-old motorbike taxi driver died during protests, escalating tensions.
• Police accused of excessive force; 7 officers under investigation for ethics violations.
• Looting reported, including Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati’s residence.
• Protests led to 3 deaths and arson at a regional council building on August 29.
• Tear gas used to disperse crowds; protesters threw Molotov cocktails and firecrackers.
• President apologized for the death of the motorbike driver and criticized police actions.
• Largest student group deemed government response “insufficient” and plans further protests.
• Protesters demand wage increases, tax relief, and stronger anti-corruption measures.
• President halted overseas trips for lawmakers but did not specify whose allowances were cut.
Summary
Indonesia faces nationwide protests after revelations of a significant housing allowance increase for lawmakers, sparking public outrage. President Prabowo Subianto announced cuts to some allowances on August 31, 2025, aiming to quell unrest. The protests intensified after a motorbike taxi driver died during clashes with police, leading to accusations of excessive force and investigations into seven officers. Demonstrations have resulted in looting, arson, and fatalities, with protesters demanding economic reforms and anti-corruption measures. Despite the government’s concessions, including halting lawmakers’ overseas trips, dissatisfaction persists, with student groups planning further actions. This marks a critical challenge for President Prabowo, whose administration faces scrutiny over its handling of the crisis.
