The Intelligence from The Economist Indonesia ablaze: Riots test Prabowo
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Sep 1, 2025 
Join Asia correspondent Sue-Lin Wong, Planetary Affairs Editor Oliver Morton, and China business editor Don Weinland as they dive into Indonesia's recent chaotic protests fueled by socio-economic issues, including deep public discontent after a tragic incident. They discuss the potential collapse of the Atlantic current, highlighting the urgent need for climate action. The conversation also touches on the rise of fashionable facekinis in China, reflecting changing attitudes towards sun protection in a post-COVID world. It's a fascinating exploration of current global dynamics!
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Violent Protests Sweep Indonesian Cities
- Protesters set cars on fire and burned two regional parliament buildings in cities across Indonesia.
- The homes of five officials were ransacked and a delivery driver’s killing became a catalyst for rage.
Allowance Hike Sparked Deep-Seated Anger
- The immediate trigger was lawmakers granting themselves allowances nearly ten times Jakarta's minimum wage.
- That act amplified long-running grievances about inequality and political frivolity.
Delivery Driver Killed Became A Rallying Symbol
- Police killed Afan Kuniwan, a 21-year-old delivery driver, which intensified protests.
- Couriers escorted his coffin in powerful images that symbolised protesters' anger.