Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto announced plans to revoke a controversial monthly housing allowance for lawmakers during a press conference in Jakarta on October 1, 2023. This move comes in response to widespread protests that have resulted in at least six fatalities. The allowance, which amounts to $3,000 (approximately 50 million rupiah), has drawn significant public ire, particularly in the context of rising living costs and increasing unemployment.
At the televised event, Subianto was accompanied by leaders from eight political parties, who collectively agreed to suspend overseas trips for members of parliament and eliminate certain allowances. “Lawmakers will see certain allowances scrapped and overseas work trips suspended under a new moratorium,” Subianto stated, marking a significant concession aimed at alleviating public discontent.
The protests, which began in Jakarta on September 25, were ignited by revelations that all 580 members of parliament receive the substantial housing allowance in addition to their salaries. Critics have labeled the allowance as excessive, especially given its disparity with the Jakarta minimum wage, which is nearly ten times lower. As protests intensified, the situation escalated following the tragic death of Affan Kurniawan, a 21-year-old ride-hailing driver, during a rally. A video circulating on social media captured the moment when a police armoured vehicle allegedly struck Kurniawan, leading to public outrage against security forces.
The unrest spread across the nation, culminating in violent clashes that resulted in multiple injuries and fatalities. In Yogyakarta, authorities confirmed that a 21-year-old university student lost his life during confrontations with riot police. Subianto has called for an investigation into the actions of seven officers linked to Kurniawan’s death, signaling the government’s acknowledgment of the gravity of the situation.
During his address, Subianto emphasized the government’s commitment to upholding freedom of expression as enshrined in Indonesia’s constitution and international conventions. “But when demonstrations turn anarchic, destroying public facilities, endangering lives, and attacking private homes or public institutions, this becomes a serious violation of law,” he cautioned. He warned that violent actions could be interpreted as treason or terrorism, insisting that the state would not tolerate any attempts to destabilize the country.
Subianto appealed to the public for calm and urged citizens to express their grievances in a peaceful manner. He reassured the populace that their voices would be heard, saying, “I sincerely ask all citizens to trust the government and remain calm.”
As Indonesia navigates this period of unrest, the government’s response to public demands and the ongoing protests will be closely monitored, both domestically and internationally.
