Voices in the Streets: Indonesia’s Recent Massive Protests

Source: CNBC Indonesia 

Indonesia has been shaken by a wave of large-scale demonstrations in 2025, with thousands of people taking to the streets across major cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, Bandung, and Makassar. These protests, often called “Indonesia Gelap” (Dark Indonesia), reflect growing public frustration with government policies, economic struggles, and concerns about democracy. Let’s dive into what’s happening, why people are protesting, and what it means for Indonesia’s future.

The protests began in February 2025, led by students and civil society groups, and have continued to grow. The main reasons for these demonstrations include:

1. Controversial Government Policies: A revised law allowing the Indonesian military (TNI) to take more civilian roles has sparked fears of a return to authoritarian rule. Many worry this could weaken democracy, reminding people of the military-dominated era under Suharto.

2. Economic Hardships: Rising unemployment, high taxes, and inflation have made life harder for many Indonesians. Protesters are angry about policies like budget cuts to education and health, which they say prioritize big projects over public needs. For example, the free nutritious meal program, involving the military, has raised concerns about government priorities.

3. Lawmakers’ Privileges: A major trigger was the revelation that parliament members receive a monthly housing allowance of 50 million rupiah (about $3,075), nearly ten times Jakarta’s minimum wage. This has fueled public outrage, especially as many struggle to afford basic needs.

4. Police Violence: Tensions escalated after a tragic incident on August 28, 2025, when a 21-year-old motorcycle taxi driver, Affan Kurniawan, was killed by a police vehicle during a protest in Jakarta. This incident sparked widespread calls for police reform and accountability.

Read: Why Indonesians Are Protesting the DPR Salary Hike

The demonstrations have been intense, with clashes between protesters and security forces. In Jakarta, protesters threw rocks and fireworks, while police responded with tear gas and water cannons. In Surabaya, demonstrators stormed the governor’s office, and in Makassar, a regional parliament building was set on fire, resulting in three deaths.

A unique symbol of resistance has also emerged: the Straw Hat Pirates’ Jolly Roger flag from the anime One Piece. First raised by truck drivers in July 2025 to protest restrictions on overloaded trucks, it has become a bold sign of defiance against government policies. While some officials called it a threat to national unity, President Prabowo Subianto allowed its use, calling it a form of public expression.

The Demands of the Protesters

The protesters, including students, workers, and activists, have made clear demands, such as:

1. Canceling the military’s expanded role in civilian affairs.

2. Reversing budget cuts to education and health.

3. Reducing lawmakers’ allowances and fighting corruption.

4. Investigating police violence, especially after the death of Affan Kurniawan.

5. Reforming economic policies to address unemployment, inflation, and taxes.

President Prabowo Subianto, a former general who took office in October 2024, has faced his biggest challenge yet. He has called for calm and promised a transparent investigation into the taxi driver’s death. However, the government has defended some policies, like budget cuts, claiming they don’t affect education funding. The parliament is also moving forward with discussions on the controversial TNI law despite public opposition.

Read also: Online Motorcycle Taxi Driver’s Accident with Brimob Vehicle

These protests show deep public concern about the direction of Indonesia’s democracy. Many fear that elite control and military influence could erode hard-won freedoms gained since the fall of Suharto in 1998. The “Indonesia Gelap” movement highlights a growing divide between the government and the people, with demands for transparency, fairness, and accountability.

The use of the One Piece flag adds a cultural twist, showing how Indonesians are using creative ways to express their frustration. However, the violence and loss of life are tragic reminders of the high stakes involved. The protests could push the government to rethink its policies or risk further unrest if demands are ignored.

As Indonesia approaches its 80th Independence Day in August 2025, the protests are a call for a government that truly serves its people. Whether these demonstrations lead to meaningful change or deepen divisions remains to be seen. For now, the voices in the streets are loud and clear, demanding a brighter future for Indonesia.