Indonesia is facing its biggest wave of protests in years as anger over political perks and economic hardship spills onto the streets. Demonstrations in Jakarta have turned violent, shaking financial markets and triggering reports of social media blocks. Here’s what’s happening and why:
What’s Happening
Demonstrations began after reports revealed that lawmakers were receiving lavish new allowances, including monthly housing stipends worth 50 million rupiah (around $3,000), whereas ordinary citizens face spending cuts on education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Anger deepened after a police armored vehicle struck and killed a motorcycle delivery driver in Jakarta, intensifying public outrage. The protests, centered in Jakarta but spreading to other cities, have seen thousands of students, workers, and activists take to the streets.
Large crowds clashed with police, throwing bottles and Molotov cocktails, while riot forces responded with water cannons and tear gas. The worsening situation is fueling fears the unrest will not end quickly.
Why It’s Happening
At the heart of the unrest is frustration over corruption and privilege among political elites. The new allowances, approved during austerity, have become a symbol of inequality in a country where inflation is rising and wages remain stagnant. Critics say the decision reflects a government that prioritizes political insiders over the needs of its people.
The protests are part of a broader pattern of dissatisfaction with President Prabowo Subianto’s administration, which has increased military involvement in civilian life. Many protesters draw parallels to earlier reform-era demonstrations, saying the current crisis revives questions about democracy, accountability, and fairness in Indonesia’s political system.
Economic Consequences
The political turmoil has rattled Indonesia’s financial markets. On August 29:
- The Jakarta Composite Index dropped over 2%, wiping billions from market value.
- The rupiah fell nearly 1%, hitting its lowest level in weeks.
- Investors pulled back from Indonesian assets amid uncertainty, while analysts warned prolonged unrest could dent growth prospects.
Bank Indonesia moved quickly to restore stability, intervening in the currency market and purchasing government bonds. However, the central bank’s emergency measures indicate how fragile investor confidence has become as the protests intensify.
Reports of Social Media Blocks
Protesters say the government has begun restricting access to social platforms. Reports from Indonesians on Hacker News suggest X and Discord are blocked in parts of the country. These platforms have been crucial for organizing protests, sharing updates, and coordinating safety.
Some users noted that VPNs, including Cloudflare’s WARP, also faced disruptions, hinting at a broader attempt to limit circumvention. If true, this wouldn’t be the first time Indonesia has resorted to blocking social media, given its pattern of censorship.
During the May 2019 Jakarta riots, Indonesia’s Ministry of Communications restricted WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram, citing the need to curb misinformation and unrest. Those shutdowns were later ruled unlawful, but they set a precedent.
What to Do If X or Discord Is Blocked?
For Indonesians, journalists, or travelers in the country, losing access to major social platforms can disrupt communication and safety. To stay connected:
- Use a VPN with obfuscated servers to access blocked social media platforms securely and undetected.
- Switch to alternative encrypted apps like Signal or Telegram, which may remain accessible longer.
- Back up important contacts and information offline, in case services are cut abruptly.
- Remain vigilant online, since periods of unrest are frequently exploited by cybercriminals.
In Conclusion
Markets are sliding, the rupiah is under pressure, and reports of social media blocks are adding to tensions. For now, Indonesia’s unrest shows no sign of easing.
Arsalan Rashid
August 29, 2025
2 months ago
