Frustration with Government Sparks Rioting in Indonesia

By Lauren Ho

Indonesian citizens have gradually grown disconcerted under recently elected President Prabowo Subianto. During the election season, voters expressed concerns regarding then presidential candidate Subianto due to past human rights abuses. However, the unease climaxed in late August of 2025 when protests against political corruption began in the capital, Jakarta. Although a culmination of issues has been expressed by Indonesians, including a stronger military presence in citizens’ daily life, the decision to raise parliaments’ allowance inspired the rioting. The protests rapidly spread across Indonesia, but turned violent in Jakarta when a young bystander, Affan Kurniawan, was killed August 28th. The death of Kurniawan fueled further dissent against the Indonesian government and law enforcement. However, as of September 1, 2025, the riots have continued as an additional six protestors have been killed by the riot police. 

President Subianto has responded to the protests in several ways with the first being his announcement of cutting government allowances. Many dissenters have stated, however, that this is not enough because it does not offer government accountability. Yet, while trying to quell the riots through diplomatic means, the president further ordered stronger military and law enforcement action against the rioters. Initially planning to attend a Victory Parade with other influential global figures such as Vladimir Putin, Xi Xinping, and Kim Jong Un, President Subianto canceled his plans, stating his desire to focus on controlling the riots. However, as the political instability continues with riots raging, Indonesian President Subianto reconsidered the parade and left on September 2, 2025 for China. As the dissatisfaction with Indonesia’s government grows, it remains unknown to what extent the nation will face future upheaval.