28 August 2025 – Amid massive protests in Jakarta, the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta has issued a high-level “Demonstration Alert” for American citizens. The embassy has warned people to stay away from areas such as the Parliament Building (Jalan Jenderal Gatot Subroto) and the State Palace (Jalan Medan Merdeka Utara), as these places could be the main centers of protests.
The demonstration was reported to start at 9 am and according to locals, traffic jams and blockades were certain on the roads.
Why did the anger flare up?
This demonstration is no ordinary protest. The parliament has recently decided that each MP will be given a monthly housing allowance of Rp50 million (about $3,075). In comparison, this amount is about ten times more than the minimum wage in Jakarta. Critics say the decision comes at a time when lawmakers themselves are reaping huge benefits even as the government urges the public to cut spending under austerity policies.
Students, workers and civil society organizations have called it a symbol of deeper problems—corruption, inequality and the political class’ disconnect from the hardships of ordinary people. Protests outside parliament this week erupted into violence. Police used tear gas and water cannons while demonstrators chanted slogans against “corrupt elites” and the military-business nexus.
U.S. Embassy advice
The U.S. Embassy said protests in Jakarta are not uncommon but can often turn violent without warning. U.S. citizens have been advised to stay away from protest sites, monitor local news, plan alternate routes, avoid crowds and—most importantly—do not isolate yourself in public.
Official response
The Indonesian government has said it respects citizens’ right to protest, but violence will not be tolerated at any cost. Police have already deployed a large number of security forces around the Parliament Building and the State Palace.
However, it is difficult to say whether this security presence will ease tensions or further inflame anger. For now, it is clear that the issue of MPs’ housing benefits is no longer just a question of allowances—it has become a symbol of the public’s deep dissatisfaction with the political class.
Click Here to read the Official Alert Notification on- Demonstration Alert – U.S. Embassy Jakarta, Indonesia
