Riot police in Jakarta, Indonesia, clashed with thousands of student protestors demonstrating against the generous allowances received by members of parliament. The protests, which occurred on Monday, saw police using tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowds who were angered by reports of parliamentarians receiving monthly housing allowances of more than $3,000.
Key Facts
- Thousands of students protested in Jakarta against parliamentary allowances.
- Riot police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse the protesters.
- Protesters are demonstrating against a monthly housing allowance of 50 million rupiah ($3,075) given to members of parliament.
- The allowance has been in place since September 2024.
Thousands of students participated in protests held in Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia. These demonstrations were a direct response to the financial allowances allocated to members of the Indonesian parliament. The student protestors gathered to voice their discontent and demand a change in the allocation of public funds.
In response to the demonstrations, riot police were deployed and employed tear gas and water cannons in an attempt to disperse the protesting crowds. These measures were taken to control the situation as the protests escalated, with some protestors attempting to breach the parliament building.
The core grievance of the protestors centers on a monthly housing allowance amounting to 50 million rupiah, equivalent to $3,075, which is allocated to members of the Indonesian parliament. This allowance has been a focal point of public anger, particularly given the economic disparities within the country.
The controversial housing allowance for members of parliament has been in effect since September 2024. The introduction and continuation of this allowance have fueled public debate and criticism, contributing to the tensions that led to the recent protests in Jakarta.
Background
The protests in Jakarta highlight deeper issues of corruption and economic disparity in Indonesia. The monthly housing allowance for members of parliament has become a symbol of these issues, sparking outrage among students and other citizens who feel that the government is not addressing the economic hardships faced by ordinary Indonesians. Activists say police and members of parliament are perceived as being widely corrupt in the country of more than 280 million people. The allowance, which is 20 times the minimum wage in poor areas, adds to the perception of injustice.
Corruption is reportedly endemic in Indonesia, affecting various levels of government and public institutions. The perception of widespread corruption erodes public trust and fuels social unrest. Efforts to combat corruption and promote transparency are ongoing but face significant challenges.
Economic disparity remains a significant challenge in Indonesia, with a large gap between the wealthy elite and the majority of the population. This disparity contributes to social tensions and a sense of injustice, particularly when government officials are seen to benefit from lavish allowances and perks.
The monthly housing allowance for members of parliament has become a focal point of public anger, symbolizing what many perceive as the government’s failure to address economic inequalities and corruption. The allowance, which significantly exceeds the monthly minimum wage in many areas, has fueled resentment and demands for greater financial accountability.
Gejayan Memanggil, one of the groups organizing the protest, said that demonstrators were calling for a salary cut for parliamentarians and protesting against “corrupt elites” in the government, as well as policies that benefit conglomerates and the military. Some were seen on television carrying a flag from the Japanese manga series One Piece, which has become a symbol of protest against government policies in the country.
Timeline / What We Know
- September 2024: The housing allowance of 50 million rupiah ($3,075) per month for 580 members of the House of Representatives begins.
- August 25, 2025: Thousands of students protest in Jakarta against the housing allowance. Clashes erupt between protesters and riot police, who use tear gas and water cannons.
- August 26, 2025: News agencies report on the protests and clashes in Jakarta.
In September 2024, the Indonesian government initiated a housing allowance program for 580 members of the House of Representatives. This allowance, set at 50 million rupiah per member each month, immediately sparked controversy and debate among the public and various advocacy groups.
On August 25, 2025, the controversy surrounding the housing allowance reached a boiling point as thousands of students gathered in Jakarta to protest the policy. The protests quickly escalated, resulting in clashes between the demonstrators and riot police, who deployed tear gas and water cannons to control the crowds.
On August 26, 2025, news agencies reported on the events that unfolded in Jakarta, bringing the issue of parliamentary allowances and the resulting protests to a wider audience. The reports highlighted the tensions between the government and its citizens, underscoring the need for greater transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.Official Reactions
Jakarta police spokesperson Ade Ary Syam Indradi stated that 1,250 police personnel were deployed to maintain security around the parliament building. House Speaker Puan Maharani told reporters on Saturday that the wage amount had been thoroughly considered and adjusted to current prices in Jakarta. There was no immediate comment from House Speaker Puan Maharani or her deputy.
Ade Ary Syam Indradi, the Jakarta police spokesperson, communicated to the press that a significant number of police officers, specifically 1,250, were assigned to safeguard the parliament building during the protests. This deployment was intended to ensure the security of the premises and maintain order in the face of escalating demonstrations.
Puan Maharani, the House Speaker, addressed reporters on Saturday, providing insights into the decision-making process behind the wage amount. Maharani explained that the amount had undergone careful consideration and had been adjusted to align with the prevailing prices in Jakarta. This statement aimed to provide context and justification for the controversial allowance.
Despite the opportunity to comment on the unfolding events, neither House Speaker Puan Maharani nor her deputy issued an immediate response to the protests. The lack of immediate commentary from these key figures left the public and media awaiting further clarification or action regarding the concerns raised by the demonstrators.
What’s Next
The situation in Indonesia remains tense, with the potential for further protests and clashes. The government may need to address the concerns of the protesters and the broader public to prevent further unrest. Several possible scenarios could unfold in the coming weeks:
- The Indonesian government could announce a review of the housing allowance for members of parliament, potentially leading to a reduction or restructuring of the benefit.
- Further protests may occur, potentially escalating if the government does not respond to the demonstrators’ demands. These protests could spread to other cities and involve a wider range of participants.
- The parliament may initiate a formal investigation into the allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement, leading to potential legal consequences for those found guilty.
One potential outcome involves the Indonesian government acknowledging the public’s concerns and initiating a formal review of the housing allowance policy. This review could lead to a reduction in the allowance amount, a restructuring of the benefit, or even its complete removal. Such a move could be seen as a gesture of goodwill and an attempt to address the root causes of the protests.
Another possibility is the continuation and potential escalation of protests across Indonesia. If the government fails to adequately respond to the demonstrators’ demands, the protests could intensify and spread to other major cities. This could lead to further clashes between protesters and law enforcement, potentially resulting in injuries and property damage.
The Indonesian parliament may also choose to launch a formal investigation into the allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement that have fueled the protests. This investigation could involve summoning witnesses, reviewing financial records, and potentially referring cases to law enforcement for further action. If evidence of wrongdoing is discovered, those responsible could face legal consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and disqualification from holding public office.
Methodology: This report is based on news agency reports published on August 26, 2025, detailing protests in Jakarta on August 25, 2025. The report focuses on the events, causes, and reactions related to the protests against parliamentary allowances.