Sistem dan Struktur Politik Ekonomi Indonesia Masa Orde Baru
In the shadow of the tumultuous Sukarno era, Indonesia experienced a profound transformation under the authoritarian grip of President Soeharto, marking the dawn of the “Orde Baru” (New Order) in 1966. This period ushered in significant shifts in the country’s political and economic landscape, shaping the trajectory of Indonesian society for decades to come.
The Orde Baru era was characterized by a centralized, top-down approach to governance, with Soeharto wielding absolute power as the head of the armed forces. Political parties were tightly controlled, with the ruling Golkar party acting as a dominant force while opposition was ruthlessly suppressed.
Pemerintahan Orde Baru
Centralized power and political control were the hallmarks of the Orde Baru government. Soeharto instituted an authoritarian regime that systematically dismantled the remnants of Sukarno’s Guided Democracy.
Political parties were severely restricted, with only three officially recognized by the government. Golkar, the ruling party, was heavily favored and enjoyed overwhelming support in elections, often winning over 90% of the vote through alleged electoral manipulation and intimidation.
Dwifungsi ABRI
A defining feature of Orde Baru was the doctrine of dwifungsi (dual function), which allowed the military to play a dual role in both defense and domestic affairs.
ABRI (Indonesian Armed Forces) officers held key positions in government, bureaucracy, and state-owned enterprises. This pervasive military presence extended into all aspects of Indonesian society, ensuring Soeharto’s unwavering control.
Struktur Ekonomi Orde Baru
The Indonesian economy underwent a significant transformation under the Orde Baru. Economic policies were heavily influenced by the World Bank and International Monetary Fund, prioritizing growth and stability.
Indonesia adopted a system of state-led capitalism, with the government playing a dominant role in key industries such as oil and gas, mining, and banking. Foreign investment was actively sought to promote economic development.
Petroleum Boom and Economic Growth
The discovery and exploitation of abundant oil and gas reserves in the 1970s fueled a period of rapid economic growth known as the “oil boom.” The government used oil revenues to finance infrastructure projects, education, and healthcare.
However, the oil boom also led to increased corruption and cronyism, with a small group of Soeharto’s cronies amassing vast fortunes. Economic inequality widened, and many Indonesians failed to benefit from the country’s newfound wealth.
Dampak Politik Ekonomi Orde Baru
The Orde Baru’s political and economic policies had a profound impact on Indonesian society.
On the positive side, the period witnessed a decline in political instability and the establishment of a stable government. Economic growth and stability improved the living standards of many Indonesians.
However, the authoritarian nature of the regime suppressed political dissent and human rights violations were rampant. Corruption and cronyism became endemic, undermining the country’s democratic institutions.
The economic growth was also unevenly distributed, with the benefits largely concentrated among Soeharto’s close associates. Poverty and inequality persisted, and many Indonesians felt alienated from the benefits of the oil boom.
Akhir Orde Baru
The Orde Baru era came to an end in 1998 amidst a massive economic crisis and mounting political unrest. The Asian financial crisis devastated Indonesia’s economy, and Soeharto’s grip on power weakened.
Protests and demonstrations erupted across the country, demanding Soeharto’s resignation. After 32 years in power, Soeharto was forced to step down in May 1998, marking a turning point in Indonesian history and the beginning of the Reformasi era.
Kesimpulan
The Orde Baru era was a complex and transformative period in Indonesia’s history. The authoritarian regime of Soeharto brought stability and economic growth, but at the cost of political suppression and human rights violations.
The system and structure of political economy during this time shaped the trajectory of Indonesian society for decades to come. The legacy of the Orde Baru continues to be debated and analyzed, as Indonesians grapple with the challenges and opportunities of a post-authoritarian era.
Are you interested in learning more about the political and economic history of Indonesia? Leave a comment below or share your thoughts on the Orde Baru era.
