JAKARTA -- Prabowo Subianto took office as president of Indonesia in October 2024 with a promise of 8% annual economic growth, driven by industrial development, generous welfare policies, a tightened-up tax system and increased defense spending. Less than a year later, the country is being rocked by violent unrest.
Demonstrators clash with riot police clash outside the Indonesian parliament in Jakarta on Aug. 28, as protestors decry what they say are exorbitant allowances for Indonesian lawmakers. © Reuters
Policy Asia
Indonesia protests expose economic divide threatening Prabowo programs
President urged to reduce spending on defense and free meals, prioritize cash transfers to the poor
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