Indonesian president cuts lawmakers’ perks after deadly protests
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Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto revokes lawmakers’ $3,000 housing perks after protests across Indonesia leave six dead, sparking investigations and tighter security.
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Officers of the Indonesian National Police's paramilitary unit Mobile Brigade patrol a street at the main business district in Jakarta, Indonesia, Sunday, August 31, 2025. (AP)
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has vowed to revoke parliamentary perks, including a controversial $3,000 monthly housing allowance, following nationwide protests that left six people dead.
Speaking at a televised press conference in Jakarta alongside leaders of eight political parties, Prabowo announced that allowances would be cut and overseas trips for lawmakers suspended under a new moratorium starting Monday. The move marked a rare concession in response to growing public outrage.
“Lawmakers will see certain allowances scrapped and overseas work trips suspended,” Prabowo said.
Police checkpoints were set up across Jakarta on Monday, with more demonstrations planned in several regions of the vast archipelago. A police spokesperson told Kompas TV that officers were patrolling the capital to protect citizens and maintain order.
On Sunday, police deployed armored vehicles and motorbike convoys to parliament in a show of force aimed at deterring protesters. Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, a close ally of Prabowo, warned that the military and police would take “firm action” against “rioters and looters” after protesters ransacked the finance minister’s home.
In anticipation of further unrest, TikTok suspended its live-streaming feature for Indonesian users, citing safety concerns. The app has more than 100 million users in the country.
Roots of public anger
The demonstrations began last week after revelations that all 580 lawmakers were receiving a monthly housing allowance of 50 million rupiah ($3,075), almost ten times Jakarta’s minimum wage, on top of their salaries. Critics said the allowance was not only excessive but also insensitive amid soaring living costs, higher taxes, and growing unemployment.
The protests intensified after the death of 21-year-old ride-hailing driver Affan Kurniawan in Jakarta on Thursday. Social media footage showed him being run over by a police armored car during clashes, sparking nationwide outrage. Police confirmed that seven officers are under investigation over the incident.
The death toll rose to six over the weekend. Amikom Yogyakarta University confirmed the death of student Rheza Sendy Pratama during Friday’s protests. In Makassar, three people were killed after protesters set fire to a council building, while another man was beaten to death by a mob who suspected him of being an intelligence officer.
Government’s stance
Prabowo stressed that his administration respected freedom of expression but warned against violence.
“When demonstrations turn anarchic, destroying public facilities, endangering lives, and attacking private homes or public institutions, this becomes a serious violation of law,” he said.
The president cautioned that violent acts could veer into treason or terrorism, warning that “the state would not tolerate attempts to destabilize the country.”
Calling for calm, he urged Indonesians to express dissent peacefully. “I sincerely ask all citizens to trust the government and remain calm,” Prabowo said, pledging his administration’s commitment to prioritizing the people’s interests.
