National Protests and Travel Advisory Update

A national protest broke out on 29–31 August 2025, triggered by the polemic over allowances/privileges for members of parliament (DPR). Following casualties, President Prabowo Subianto announced that he would revoke several DPR allowances and temporarily suspend overseas official trips—as a step to ease tensions. (AP News, The Guardian, Reuters)

Travel advisory: Australia (Smartraveller) and the U.S. Embassy issued warnings to avoid crowds/demonstrations, including those disrupting traffic in Denpasar, Bali. (Smartraveller, U.S. Embassy Indonesia)

As of 1 September 2025, the government emphasized tighter security; in Bali’s tourist destinations, tourism activities continue as usual with route adjustments where traffic diversions are in place. (Al Jazeera)

Full Chronology Leading to the Protests

Economic Pressure on Society, In recent months, Indonesians have faced economic hardship: rising prices of basic goods, higher living costs, and government plans to increase several taxes, including:

• Value Added Tax (VAT/PPN), continued under its scheduled increase.

• Fuel Tax (BBKB), affecting daily transportation costs.

• Property Tax (PBB), adding routine burdens for households.

These tax hikes were seen as weighing heavily on the people, who were already struggling amid an economic slowdown.

Issues of Salary and Allowances for DPR, Amid this situation, the public was shocked by reports of salary and allowance increases for DPR members, along with perceptions that lawmakers received different tax treatment compared to ordinary citizens. This created a sense of unfairness, since taxes were fully borne by the people while lawmakers were viewed as enjoying extra benefits.

Lack of Empathy from Political Elites, Responses from certain political elites and ministries, perceived as indifferent or lacking empathy toward the people’s burdens, added fuel to public anger. On social media, harsh criticism spread that the government and DPR had failed to understand the public mood.

Escalation of the Protests, The situation escalated when several political figures were seen as challenging public criticism. Names such as Eko Patrio, Uya Kuya, and Ahmad Sahroni were widely discussed. At the peak, public anger erupted not only into peaceful demonstrations but also into rioting and attacks on private property and government offices, including the homes of officials associated with tax policy.

Symbol of Resistance Against the Asset Confiscation Bill, The public also linked the events to the Asset Confiscation Bill that parliament had previously rejected. Many saw the “looting” that occurred as a symbolic expression of distrust, reflecting that society no longer believed in the DPR’s formal mechanisms for tackling corruption or monitoring officials’ wealth.

Are There Travel Warnings for Bali & Indonesia?

• Australia (Smartraveller): “Large-scale protests have the potential to turn violent and damage property in multiple cities in Indonesia, including Denpasar (Bali). Avoid demonstrations and monitor local media.” (update 30 August 2025). (Smartraveller)

• U.S. Embassy (Jakarta): A series of “Demonstration Alerts” on 29–31 August 2025 advised citizens to avoid protest areas, monitor the media, and anticipate traffic disruptions. (U.S. Embassy Indonesia)

• UK FCDO: The Indonesia travel advice highlights avoiding crowds/demonstrations and being aware of local risks (also noting restrictions in volcanic areas, not specific to Bali). (GOV.UK)

In short: There is no total ban on travel to Bali, but tourists are advised to avoid protest areas and adjust routes if diversions occur.

Impact in Bali & Tips for Travelers

• Traffic & routes: During protests in certain areas (e.g., city centers/government buildings), police enforce traffic diversions, which may lengthen travel times. Use real-time maps and check updates from official police/communication channels. (Al Jazeera)

• Tourist attractions & local businesses: Most tourist sites, hotels, and motorbike rental services remain operational. Adjust departure times and avoid routes near protest sites during peak hours. (General reference from travel advisories on avoiding demonstrations). (Smartraveller)

  
  

President’s Statement: What Has Been Addressed?

• Revoked/reviewed: The President announced the revocation of DPR housing allowances and a moratorium on overseas official trips as a direct response to public demands. The government also pledged to investigate alleged excesses by security forces. (AP News, The Guardian)

As of today, the situation has become more stable, with tightened security measures and some public demands—particularly regarding DPR allowances—already addressed through revocation/review. Travel to Bali remains safe, provided tourists avoid protest locations and follow official advisories. (AP News, Al Jazeera)

For Those Planning to Visit Bali and Rent a Motorbike

To keep your trip smooth when using motorbike rental in Bali, here are some recommendations:

• Plan flexible routes: choose alternatives if there are traffic diversions; ask your Bali motorbike rental provider for daily traffic updates. (Smartraveller)

• Pick up early: avoid city centers/government buildings during rush hours, especially if protests are possible.

• Carry complete documents & wear SNI-standard helmets: ensure you have a valid driving license, proper helmets, and follow traffic rules for safety.

• Use delivery service: take advantage of door-to-door motorbike delivery to hotels/villas so you don’t need to cross crowded areas.