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Indonesia’s Protests: Causes and Escalation
1. How Did the Protests Start?
The protests began on August 25 in Jakarta as a peaceful movement led by students and Labour unions. They were directed against Parliament members over the Housing allowance issue, which was seen as excessive and disconnected from public struggles.
2. What Caused the Escalation?
The turning point came after 21-year-old delivery worker Alfan Kurniawan was killed when a police vehicle ran over him. His death became the symbol of public anger, sparking widespread clashes between civilians and police/military forces.
3. What Were the Main Issues?
Excessive Perks for Elites: Housing allowance and foreign visits for Parliament members.
Budget Cuts: Large fiscal cuts (worth $18.5 billion) redirected towards a free school meal programme but at the cost of slashing other key sectors, including:
• 70% reduction in public works.
• 52% cut for economic affairs.
• 40% drop in investment.
• 250% hike in property tax in some regions.
• 25% cut in higher education budget.
Shrinking Middle Class: Citizens felt neglected in terms of economic and educational opportunities.
4. Who Were Involved?
Students and Labour Unions: Led most demonstrations.
Civil Society Groups: Raised concerns over inequality.
Government & Police: Used force, which escalated violence.
5. How Many Arrests and Casualties?
Over 3,000 arrested.
At least 7 killed.
Hundreds injured, including police and military personnel.
6. Why Anger Against the Elites?
The protests highlighted resentment towards lawmakers’ privileges amid worsening inequality. Indonesia’s richest 1% control nearly half of national wealth, while many citizens struggle with education, housing, and healthcare costs.
7. What Next?
President Prabowo Subianto has:
• Promised investigations into protest-related violence.
• Reaffirmed the need for budget cuts as “efficiency.”
• Met ministers and regional officials to calm tensions.
However, unrest has already dented investor confidence, with Fitch Ratings warning of risks to Indonesia’s sovereign credit profile.
FAQs
1. What initially triggered the protests?
They began over housing allowances and benefits for Indonesian Parliament members.
2. Why did the protests spread so widely?
The death of Alfan Kurniawan transformed them into a mass movement against government policies.
3. How did budget cuts affect public perception?
Cuts in education, infrastructure, and social sectors made people feel the government prioritised elite perks over welfare.
4. Why did students play a central role?
They were directly affected by scholarship reductions and cuts to higher education, making them highly active.
5. How has the government responded so far?
By promising investigations, continuing with fiscal cuts, and engaging in dialogue with ministers and regional officials—though public anger remains high.