Thousands of students tried to reach Indonesia’s Parliament in Jakarta on Monday to protest lawmakers’ housing benefits.
Riot police fired tear gas to stop protesters from approaching the compound.
Demonstrators threw rocks and bottles at officers and set fires under a flyover near Parliament.
Authorities blocked streets and toll roads leading to the building, creating massive traffic congestion.
More than 1,200 security personnel guarded the Parliament compound during the unrest.
Outrage Over Housing Allowances
Reports revealed 580 House of Representatives members receive 50 million rupiah (€2,637) per month since September 2024.
Protesters said the benefits are unjust while most citizens face economic hardship.
The housing allowance equals 20 times the monthly minimum wage in poorer regions.
Demonstrators demanded lawmakers abolish the allowances that come on top of their salaries.
House Speaker Puan Maharani defended the payment, stating officials adjusted it according to Jakarta’s current prices.
Corruption Fears Intensify Protests
Activists claim corruption remains widespread among Indonesian police and members of Parliament.
Citizens see public institutions as deeply corrupt in a country with more than 280 million people.
Monday’s unrest produced no immediate reports of injuries, but tensions remain high.
Protesters vowed to continue pressuring lawmakers until authorities address public outrage over lavish benefits.
