Indonesia's Deadly Protests: How Housing Allowances & Death of an E-Hailing Rider Sparked Nationwide Riots

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Massive protests have erupted in Indonesia, with violent protests sweeping across the country and leaving several people dead.

Amid the nation’s ongoing economic struggles, protesters allegedly tried to break through the metal and concrete barricades around the parliament building in Jakarta, forcing police to fire tear gas and water cannons.

So, what does this mean for the people of Indonesia? Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s been happening.

1. What sparked the unrest?

On August 25, news spread that the country’s members of parliament (MPs) were set to receive higher monthly allowances, a move many slammed as ‘insensitive’ and out of touch with the struggles of ordinary people.

Earlier, we reported that all 580 members of the House of Representatives were getting a housing allowance of IDR50 million (~RM13,000) on top of their salaries.

2. The human toll of the riot

Tensions flared when 21-year-old ride-hailing driver Affan Kurniawan was reportedly completing a food delivery when he was run over and killed by an armoured police vehicle during a rally.

Chair of the Indonesian Public Transportation Workers Union (SPAI), Lily Pujiati, said the incident on August 28 happened as police were dispersing protesters.

As of the time of writing, according to AP News, the death toll has now risen to seven, after authorities in Yogyakarta reported that a university student was killed during Friday’s clashes between protesters and riot police.

In addition, health officials in Solo, Central Java, said a 60-year-old pedicab driver with acute asthma was found unconscious after being exposed to tear gas and died on Sunday while receiving treatment at a hospital.

3. Malaysians reach out with food donations

The unrest then spread to other cities in Indonesia and escalated after the death of food delivery rider Kurniawan. It also drew reactions from Malaysians, many of whom went beyond simply expressing solidarity and hoping for peace to return.

According to Harian Metro, some Malaysians have taken it a step further by using food delivery apps, switching their location to Indonesian cities, and ordering meals for locals affected by the turmoil.

4. Looting lawmakers’ homes

Protesters also ransacked the homes of lawmaker Ahmad Sharoni amid the violent unrest. Meanwhile, a child has gone viral for stealing a luxury Richard Mille RM 40-01 McLaren Speedtail watch, estimated at IDR11.7 billion (RM3.02 million), belonging to Sahroni.

Following this, North Jakarta Police launched an investigation, and local officers visited the child’s home. The child’s parents later handed over the looted watch to the authorities.

It was also reported that the mob targeted the homes of Uya Kuya and Eko Patrio, and social media later showed updates about Finance Minister Sri Mulyani’s residence.

5. Cost of the damages

According to Jakarta Government official Pramono Anung, the unrest caused losses of up to IDR 55 billion (~RM14.17 million) as rioters set fire to buses and subway stations and damaged other infrastructure, AP News reported.

Several foreign embassies and consulates, including those of the United States, Australia, France, Canada, and Southeast Asian countries, have issued travel warnings, advising their citizens in Indonesia to stay away from protest areas and large public gatherings.

6. Government response and concessions

President Prabowo Subianto responded to the situation by cancelling a high-profile trip to China amid unrest, and even ordered security forces to “act firmly” against rioters, some of whom he described as terrorists, according to The Guardian.

In addition, he also promised a transparent investigation into the death of an ojek driver and support for the family. Meanwhile, Reuters reported that the economic ministers reassured investors that Indonesia’s financial system remains stable despite market jitters.

Subianto also said the violence was caused by “rioters, not protesters,” accusing them of trying to destabilise the country. He added that he “will not back down” in dealing with those responsible for the unrest, according to CBC.

7. The economic reality Indonesia faces today

While it remains unclear where the protests will go from here, analysts say the violent rallies reflect growing public anger over economic struggles, political frustration, and officials’ insensitivity.

CBC reported that during Subianto’s presidential campaign, he promised to boost economic growth to 8% within five years and make Southeast Asia’s largest economy more attractive for investors.

But observers have called his pledge overly ambitious, especially with the Trump administration’s implementation of a 19% tariff on Indonesian goods adding to the uncertainty.

What are your thoughts on this? Let us know down in the comments!

Also read: Police Armoured Vehicle Runs Over & Kills E-Hailing Rider During Anti-Government Protest in Jakarta