ASEAN Confronts Dual Political Crises as Indonesia and Thailand Reel From Unrest

University students holding posters shout slogans during a protest demanding the release of demonstrators detained during the widespread protests over parliamentarians’ extra pay and housing allowances, which escalated after a police armoured vehicle hit and killed a driver of a ride-hailing motorbike, outside the Indonesian parliament building in Jakarta, Indonesia September 4, 2025. – REUTERSPIX

Regional Leaders React to Indonesian Turmoil

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and other ASEAN members have voiced optimism about ending the ongoing street demonstrations in Indonesia, with Anwar citing President Prabowo Subianto’s assurances that conditions are stabilizing. Recent updates indicate that improvements have been reported, according to Indonesian authorities.

Unrest Persists in Indonesia

Protests in Indonesia began at the end of August, driven by public anger over parliamentary allowances and the rising cost of living. The turmoil intensified after the death of Affan Kurniawan, and at least ten people have died so far. The unrest has spread beyond Jakarta, igniting government buildings in several cities. Despite assurances from the government, peaceful protests continue outside parliament.

Political Instability Spreads to Thailand

Complicating ASEAN’s stability, Thailand elected its third prime minister in two years following Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s removal by the constitutional court. Anutin Charnvirakul was selected as the new prime minister, deepening regional concerns about longstanding political instability in two key ASEAN members.

ASEAN Faces Challenges Ahead

These simultaneous crises in Indonesia and Thailand underscore the difficulties ASEAN faces in maintaining unity amid internal instability, as the bloc strives to uphold non-interference in members’ domestic affairs.

Malaysia, ASEAN countries hope demonstrations in Indonesia will end soon (The Star).