Key Facts
• Late August 2025: Protests spread from Jakarta nationwide, reminiscent of 1998 unrest.
• Protesters target politicians, vandalize homes, and loot luxury goods.
• Jakarta’s minimum wage: 5.4 million rupiah/month; lawmakers earn over 10 times this.
• August 25: Demonstrations demand dissolution of the People’s Representative Council (DPR).
• Lawmakers’ housing allowance increased by 50 million rupiah (~$3,000).
• President Prabowo Subianto labels protests as “treason and terrorism.”
• At least 7 deaths reported; protests escalate after a motorbike driver is killed by a police vehicle.
• Military accused of inaction; some soldiers reportedly aided looters.
• Prabowo promises partial cuts to allowances but faces skepticism.
• Critics link protests to Indonesia’s entrenched oligarchic elite and systemic inequality.
• Speculation arises over Prabowo’s intent to consolidate power, possibly reinstating military dominance over police.
Summary
Nationwide protests in Indonesia erupted in late August 2025, fueled by public outrage over lawmakers’ allowances exceeding 10 times the minimum wage. Demonstrators demanded the dissolution of the People’s Representative Council (DPR) after housing allowances were increased by 50 million rupiah (~$3,000). The unrest escalated following the death of a motorbike driver hit by a police vehicle, leading to widespread looting, arson, and at least seven fatalities. President Prabowo Subianto condemned the protests as “treason and terrorism,” while promising partial cuts to allowances, though doubts remain about implementation. Critics highlight Indonesia’s enduring oligarchic system, systemic inequality, and Prabowo’s potential power consolidation. The military’s alleged inaction and possible support for looters have further fueled tensions, with fears of authoritarian measures like martial law looming.
