Indonesia, a vibrant democracy of over 280 million people, has been rocked by some of its worst protests in decades. What started as peaceful demonstrations against lawmakers’ lavish perks has spiraled into violent unrest, leaving at least ten dead, thousands arrested, and a nation grappling with deep-seated anger. As a former journalist who covered Southeast Asian politics, I’ve seen how quickly tensions can escalate when trust in leadership falters. This article dives into the causes, events, and aftermath of Indonesia’s recent unrest, offering a clear picture of why the fury persists and what it means for the future.
What Sparked the Protests?
The protests began as a reaction to a housing allowance for lawmakers, but they tap into a much deeper well of frustration. Indonesians are fed up with economic inequality, government missteps, and a heavy-handed response to dissent. The spark that lit the fire was a single, tragic event that turned public discontent into chaos.
The Housing Allowance Controversy
Lawmakers in Indonesia’s House of Representatives receive a monthly housing allowance of 50 million rupiah ($3,075), nearly ten times Jakarta’s minimum wage. This perk, seen as tone-deaf amid economic struggles, ignited protests on August 25, 2025. Public outrage grew as citizens contrasted their own hardships with politicians’ privilege.
The Tragic Death of Affan Kurniawan
On August 28, 2025, a police armored vehicle struck and killed 21-year-old rideshare driver Affan Kurniawan during a protest in Jakarta. A video of the incident spread rapidly, fueling anger against police brutality. This tragedy became a rallying cry, escalating demonstrations into riots across the country.
Broader Economic and Social Grievances
The protests aren’t just about perks. They stem from long-standing issues like wealth inequality, corruption, and controversial policies under President Prabowo Subianto. For example, his free school lunch program, marred by mass food poisoning cases, has frustrated many, as have budget cuts to fund it.
Key Triggers of Public Anger
- Lawmakers’ Perks: Housing allowances far exceeding average wages.
- Police Violence: The death of Affan Kurniawan and use of tear gas and rubber bullets.
- Economic Struggles: Cuts to public services and proposed tax hikes, like the 250% property tax increase in Pati.
- Policy Missteps: Issues with Prabowo’s initiatives, including military expansion into civilian roles.
The Timeline of Unrest
The protests, which began peacefully, quickly turned violent, spreading across Indonesia’s sprawling archipelago. From Jakarta to Makassar, the nation saw an outpouring of rage, met with a forceful government response. Here’s how events unfolded.
August 25–27: Protests Begin
Demonstrations started in Jakarta on August 25, 2025, targeting lawmakers’ housing allowances. Students and civil society groups gathered outside parliament, chanting for reform. By August 27, protests had spread to Central Java and Sulawesi, with thousands joining in.
August 28: A Turning Point
The death of Affan Kurniawan on August 28 marked a shift. Protesters, enraged by the incident, began targeting police and government buildings. Social media amplified the tragedy, with hashtags and videos spreading demands for justice.
August 29–31: Violence Escalates
Over the weekend, riots erupted nationwide. In Makassar, a parliament building was set ablaze, killing at least four people. Looters targeted the homes of prominent officials, including Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati. By August 31, ten deaths were reported, with thousands arrested.
September 1–3: Crackdown and Pause
President Prabowo Subianto ordered a military and police crackdown, deploying troops to guard key sites like the presidential palace. Some groups canceled protests on September 1, citing fears of further violence. Yet, students in Bandung and Yogyakarta continued to gather, defying the crackdown.
Timeline of Key Events Table
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| August 25, 2025 | Protests begin in Jakarta over lawmakers’ housing allowances. |
| August 28, 2025 | Affan Kurniawan killed by police vehicle, sparking nationwide outrage. |
| August 29–31, 2025 | Riots escalate; parliament buildings burned, officials’ homes looted. |
| September 1–3, 2025 | Government crackdown; some protests pause, but resentment persists. |
The Government’s Response
President Prabowo Subianto, a former army general who took office in October 2024, has faced the biggest challenge of his presidency. His response—part concession, part crackdown—has drawn both praise and criticism. I recall covering similar tensions in the region, where leaders’ words often inflamed rather than calmed the situation.
Concessions on Lawmakers’ Perks
On August 31, Prabowo announced that political parties agreed to cut lawmakers’ benefits, including the controversial housing allowance. He also suspended parliamentary overseas trips. These moves aimed to appease protesters but were deemed insufficient by many.
Heavy-Handed Crackdown
Prabowo ordered police and military to take “stern action” against rioters, labeling some acts as resembling “terrorism and treason.” This rhetoric alarmed human rights groups, who criticized it as excessive. Over 3,195 people were arrested, with 1,240 in Jakarta alone, and at least 20 remain missing as of September 1.
Public Reaction to Prabowo’s Approach
Many Indonesians, like 28-year-old Jorgiana Augustine, see Prabowo’s response as insensitive. Students and activists argue it fails to address deeper issues like economic inequality and police reform. Social media remains a hotbed for criticism, despite fears of arrests.
Comparison: Prabowo’s Approach vs. Public Demands
| Aspect | Prabowo’s Response | Public Demands |
|---|---|---|
| Lawmakers’ Perks | Cut housing allowances, suspend travel | End all excessive privileges, transparency |
| Protest Handling | Military and police crackdown | Police reform, accountability for violence |
| Economic Issues | Limited acknowledgment | Address inequality, reverse tax hikes |
| Communication | Defiant, labels protests as “treason” | Empathy, dialogue with protesters |
Why the Resentment Persists
Despite the pause in protests, Indonesia’s anger hasn’t faded. Deep-rooted issues—economic hardship, distrust in institutions, and a sense of betrayal—keep the nation on edge. I once spoke to a Jakarta street vendor who said, “We work hard, but the rich just get richer.” That sentiment echoes loudly today.
Economic Inequality and Corruption
Indonesia’s wealth gap is stark. While lawmakers enjoy lavish perks, many citizens struggle with rising costs and stagnant wages. Corruption remains endemic, with posts on X highlighting public frustration over jailed ministers and unchecked graft.
Controversial Policies Under Prabowo
Prabowo’s initiatives, like expanding military roles in civilian life and a free school lunch program plagued by food poisoning cases, have fueled distrust. The “Gelap Indonesia” (Dark Indonesia) movement, starting in February 2025, criticized these policies, amplifying social issues like police violence.
Police Brutality and Public Trust
The death of Affan Kurniawan and the use of tear gas and rubber bullets have eroded trust in security forces. Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, have condemned the crackdown, arguing it ignores legitimate grievances.
Social Media’s Role
Platforms like TikTok and X have amplified public anger. TikTok suspended its live feature in Indonesia to curb unrest, while X posts reflect ongoing frustration, with users like @dajjal_gaming satirizing government priorities. Social media keeps the movement alive, even as street protests wane.
Impacts of the Unrest
The protests have left a mark on Indonesia’s society, economy, and global image. From loss of life to economic strain, the consequences are far-reaching. The stories of those affected—like a vendor whose business shut down due to riots—highlight the human cost.
Human Toll
At least ten people have died, including a university student in Yogyakarta and a pedicab driver in Solo killed by tear gas exposure. Over 700 were injured in Jakarta alone, and 20 remain missing, according to the Commission for the Disappeared and Victims of Violence (KontraS).
Economic Damage
Riots caused $3.4 million in infrastructure damage in Jakarta. Businesses closed, and Indonesia’s international bonds dropped by 0.6 cents, signaling investor concerns. S&P warns that increased social spending could strain the fiscal deficit.
International Response
Foreign embassies, including the U.S. and Australia, issued travel warnings, urging citizens to avoid protest areas. The global spotlight on Indonesia’s crackdown has raised questions about its democratic stability.
Impacts Overview Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Human Toll | 10 deaths, 700+ injuries, 20 missing |
| Economic Damage | $3.4M in Jakarta, bond market strain |
| International Reaction | Travel warnings, concerns over democracy |
| Social Media | TikTok live suspension, X as protest platform |
What Can Be Done? Solutions and Resources
The unrest won’t resolve without addressing its root causes. From policy changes to community action, there are ways to move forward. I’ve seen how dialogue can bridge divides, but it requires effort from all sides.
Policy Reforms
The government must prioritize transparency and accountability. Ending excessive perks is a start, but broader reforms—like tackling corruption and rethinking military expansion—are crucial. Public input in policy-making could rebuild trust.
Community and Individual Action
Citizens can engage through peaceful advocacy, using platforms like X to voice concerns safely. Joining local groups or supporting organizations like KontraS can amplify calls for justice. Education on civic rights also empowers communities.
Best Tools for Staying Informed and Safe
- News Apps: Reuters, CNN, The Guardian for real-time updates.
- Social Media Monitoring: Follow hashtags like #GelapIndonesia on X.
- Safety Resources: Check travel advisories from U.S. Embassy Indonesia.
- Advocacy Groups: Connect with Amnesty International Indonesia or KontraS for support.
Pros and Cons of Protest Strategies
| Strategy | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Street Protests | High visibility, direct impact | Risk of violence, arrests |
| Social Media Advocacy | Safe, wide reach | Limited physical impact, censorship |
| Dialogue with Officials | Potential for reform | Slow, requires government willingness |
| Community Organizing | Builds solidarity, long-term change | Time-intensive, needs coordination |
People Also Ask (PAA) Section
Why are Indonesians protesting in 2025?
Protests erupted over lawmakers’ housing allowances, seen as excessive amid economic struggles. The death of a rideshare driver by a police vehicle and broader issues like corruption and inequality fueled the unrest.
What caused the violence in Indonesia’s protests?
Violence escalated after a police vehicle killed Affan Kurniawan on August 28, 2025. Protesters responded with arson and looting, met by a harsh crackdown, leading to ten deaths and widespread arrests.
How has Prabowo responded to the protests?
Prabowo cut lawmakers’ perks and ordered a military-police crackdown, calling some acts “treason.” Critics say his response ignores deeper economic and social grievances, fueling further resentment.
Where can I learn more about Indonesia’s unrest?
Check trusted sources like Reuters or The Guardian for updates. Follow human rights groups like Amnesty International Indonesia for in-depth reports.
FAQ Section
What started the protests in Indonesia?
Protests began over a 50 million rupiah housing allowance for lawmakers, seen as unfair amid economic hardship. The death of a rideshare driver by police escalated tensions into violent riots.
How many people were affected by the protests?
At least ten people died, over 700 were injured in Jakarta, and 3,195 were arrested nationwide. As of September 1, 2025, 20 people remain missing, per KontraS reports.
Why is Prabowo’s leadership controversial?
Prabowo’s policies, like military expansion and a flawed school lunch program, have sparked criticism. His crackdown on protests and labeling dissent as “treason” have deepened public distrust.
Where can I find reliable updates on Indonesia’s situation?
Visit CNN or The New York Times for news. For advocacy, check Amnesty International Indonesia or KontraS for detailed reports.
What are the best ways to support Indonesian protesters?
Engage safely via social media, support groups like KontraS, or donate to human rights organizations. Stay informed through credible news and advocate for peaceful dialogue.
Conclusion: A Nation at a Crossroads
Indonesia’s protests reflect a deeper struggle for fairness, accountability, and trust in governance. While Prabowo’s concessions are a step, they don’t address the root causes—economic inequality, corruption, and heavy-handed policing. The pause in protests offers a chance for dialogue, but without meaningful change, the fury could reignite. For more on navigating this crisis, explore Amnesty International’s resources or follow updates on X. Indonesia’s future depends on listening to its people—let’s hope its leaders hear the call.
About the Author
