In a stunning display of public rage, thousands of stone-throwing protesters clashed with riot police in Indonesia's capital, as fury over plush privileges for parliament members reaches a boiling point.

On Monday, massive crowds of students, workers, and activists gathered outside the parliament, where they expressed their outrage against a staggering monthly housing allowance granted to MPs totaling 50 million rupiah (approximately $3,075)—almost ten times the minimum wage in Jakarta.

Demands for an end to these extravagant perks echoed through the streets, as demonstrators labeled the allowances excessive and a symbol of the growing disconnect between the government and its citizens.

The protests reflected broader frustrations with what many are calling "corrupt elites" within the government, whose policies appear to bolster conglomerates and the military, particularly under the administration of former general Prabowo Subianto.

The unrest highlights rising military influence in civilian roles, especially after the government passed a law earlier this year granting the military expanded powers. This month alone, 100 new military battalions were announced, set to be trained in agriculture and even pharmaceuticals.

Protesters took to carrying a flag from the popular Japanese manga series One Piece, which has emerged as a symbol of resistance against government policies, signifying the unique way Indonesians are voicing their dissent.

This wave of turmoil comes amidst severe austerity measures instituted by President Prabowo, marked by cuts to essential services like education and healthcare, raising public ire.

In the face of this turmoil, police responded with tear gas as protesters attempted to breach the parliament building's lines, igniting further chaos as demonstrators hurled rocks and set fires nearby.

Authorities struggled to contain the unrest, blocking access to parliament and causing gridlock throughout the city, with more than 1,200 security personnel tasked with maintaining order. Thankfully, there were no immediate reports of injuries.

In a bid to defuse the situation, House Speaker Puan Maharani defended the allowances, claiming they had been thoughtfully adjusted to match current living costs in Jakarta.

Activists argue that corruption is rampant in Indonesia, with public trust in police and parliament at an all-time low in a nation of over 280 million.

This latest protest adds to a series of recent demonstrations in Central Java and Sulawesi, where crowds have also risen in fury over property tax hikes.

Analysts suggest the intensity of these protests signals a significant escalation in public dissatisfaction with the Prabowo administration, indicating a pivotal moment in Indonesia's ongoing battle against corruption.