Jakarta protesters clash with police over lawmakers’ pay

Riot police stand guard in Jakarta after clashes, in Jakarta, Indonesia, 29 August, 2025.
Reuters

Protesters in Jakarta again confronted police on 28 August, expressing outrage over lawmakers’ high salaries and perks. The unrest turned tragic when a motorcyclist was killed by a police vehicle, leading President Prabowo Subianto to call for calm and launch an investigation.

Violent demonstrations erupted in Jakarta over parliamentarians’ pay, education funding, and the school meals program.

On Thursday, police fired tear gas and used water cannons to disperse crowds, while some protesters responded with fireworks, setting police vehicles ablaze.

Tragically, a motorcyclist was killed when his bike and armoured police vehicle collided.

Jakarta Police Chief Asep Edi Suheri expressed deep condolences. "As police chief and on behalf of the entire unit, I would like to express my deepest apologies and condolences."

Seven crew members of the vehicle have been arrested, and a full investigation is underway, according to Abdul Karim, head of the professional and security division of the Indonesian police.

President Prabowo addressed the incident in a recorded video, urging citizens to remain calm and trust the government, stating that an investigation into the death had been ordered.

Student groups, led by Muzammil Ihsan of Indonesia’s largest student union, plan to protest at Jakarta’s police headquarters, with other student organisations expected to join. Ihsan said, "We will protest against police violence and demand accountability."

Demonstrators also voiced frustration over parliamentarians’ high pay, reportedly upwards of 100 million rupiah ($6,150) per month, far exceeding the national average of 3.1 million rupiah ($190.68).

Many accused the government of serving 'corrupt elites,' conglomerates, and the military, highlighting concerns about the growing role of armed forces in civilian life under President Prabowo, a former general.

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