Indonesia Discourse is a multidisciplinary, semi-annual journal that provides a timely and comprehensive study of Indonesia’s culture, history, government, economy, society, technology, and health. The journal is dedicated to fostering interdisciplinary research that examines Indonesia’s evolving role in the global context while offering in-depth analyses on the nation’s contemporary challenges, opportunities, and transformations. With a long-standing tradition of scholarly engagement, Indonesia Discourse aims to contribute to both local and international discourses through original research articles, reviews, interviews, and critical analyses. By emphasizing both theoretical and applied research, the journal explores Indonesia’s complex landscape across various disciplines, including sociology, political science, anthropology, economics, linguistics, history, literature, education, environmental studies, and the rapidly advancing fields of science, technology, and health. Since its establishment, Indonesia Discourse has been committed to presenting contemporary analysis of Indonesia while maintaining an extensive archive of scholarly work that enriches the academic and policy-making communities. Through its broad scope, the journal serves as a vital resource for scholars, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in understanding Indonesia’s dynamic socio-political, technological, and healthcare landscapes.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. All writings published in this journal are the personal views of the authors and do not represent the views of this journal and the author's affiliated institutions. Authors retain the copyrights under this license.
Indo-Slang and Identity Performance: The Sociolinguistics of 'Bahasa Anak Jaksel' as a Marker of Neoliberal Class Distinction
The linguistic phenomenon popularly known as Bahasa Anak Jaksel (South Jakarta slang)—characterized by frequent code-switching between Indonesian and English—has evolved into a significant cultural signifier in contemporary Indonesia. This paper examines the sociolinguistic functions of this hybrid language through the lens of Pierre Bourdieu’s "cultural capital." By analyzing social media content and conducting focus group discussions among urban youth, the study explores how linguistic hybridization serves as a tool for identity performance and class distinction. The research finds that while the slang is often ridiculed as a sign of superficiality, it functions as a strategic marker of neocolonial cosmopolitanism, signaling the speaker’s access to international education and global neoliberal networks. Furthermore, the discourse surrounding this slang reveals deep-seated anxieties about the "purity" of the national language versus the pragmatism of global fluency. This study contributes to the field of world Englishes by illustrating how language becomes a battlefield for class competition and social mobility in a rapidly globalizing Southeast Asian metropolis.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Nickel Diplomacy: The Geopolitics of Indonesia’s Downstream Policy and the Global Electric Vehicle Supply Chain
As the world pivots toward renewable energy, Indonesia has positioned itself as a pivotal player in the global Electric Vehicle (EV) supply chain by leveraging its status as the world’s largest nickel producer. This paper analyzes Indonesia’s "downstream" (hilirisasi) policy, which bans raw ore exports to compel domestic processing and battery manufacturing. Drawing on a political ecology framework and geopolitical discourse analysis, the study evaluates the trade-offs between national economic sovereignty and environmental sustainability. While the policy has successfully attracted massive investments from China and the West, it has simultaneously triggered international trade disputes (WTO) and raised concerns regarding the ecological footprint of high-pressure acid leaching (HPAL) technology. The research finds that "Nickel Diplomacy" serves as a double-edged sword: it empowers Indonesia in the global North-South negotiation but risks creating "green sacrifice zones" in mining regions like North Maluku. The paper concludes that for Indonesia’s transition to be truly "just," the discourse must move beyond GDP growth to include rigorous environmental accountability and indigenous land rights within the global green energy narrative.
Copyright (c) 2025 Darmawan Putra Kusuma, Komang Purnama Dewi, Gede Surya Atmika (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Algorithmic Precarity of 'Ojol' Drivers: Investigating the Gig Economy and Digital Resistance in Southeast Asia’s Largest Market
The rise of ride-hailing platforms like Gojek and Grab has transformed Indonesia into one of the world’s largest laboratories for the gig economy. However, beneath the promise of "flexible work" lies a growing phenomenon of algorithmic precarity. This paper investigates how digital platforms exercise "soft control" over drivers through opaque rating systems, incentive structures, and automated suspensions. Employing a mixed-methods approach—comprising digital ethnography in driver Telegram groups and semi-structured interviews—this study maps the forms of "digital resistance" emerging among ojek (motorcycle taxi) drivers. These include the use of "tutor" apps to bypass GPS restrictions and the formation of informal grassroots unions to demand transparency. The findings indicate that the algorithm functions as a digital panopticon that shifts operational risks from the corporation to the individual worker. This research contributes to global labor sociology by demonstrating that despite the lack of formal employee status, gig workers in the Global South are developing sophisticated counter-narratives and collective strategies to challenge technological hegemony.
Copyright (c) 2025 La Ode Wiratama, Sultan Rasyid Lamaddukelleng, Zahwa Mahira Putri (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Beyond 'Kerasukan': Integrating Traditional Beliefs with Modern Psychiatric Frameworks in Indonesia’s Mental Health Discourse
In many Indonesian communities, mental health crises are frequently interpreted through the lens of spiritual possession (kerasukan) or supernatural intervention. This study explores the discursive gap between traditional healing practices and modern psychiatric frameworks. Through a qualitative multi-sited ethnography involving spiritual healers (dukun), psychiatrists, and families of patients in Java and South Sulawesi, the research investigates how pluralistic health-seeking behaviors are negotiated. The results reveal that while clinical psychiatry is increasingly accessible, patients often prefer a hybrid approach that addresses both biological symptoms and spiritual anxieties. The study identifies "cultural translation" as a critical missing link in Indonesia’s public health policy, where psychiatric interventions often fail due to a lack of engagement with local ontological beliefs. By proposing a collaborative model of "culturally-informed psychiatry," this research contributes to the global discourse on decolonizing mental health. It argues that recognizing the validity of cultural idioms of distress is essential for improving treatment adherence and reducing the stigma associated with mental illness in non-Western contexts.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rangga Prawira Gumilang, Ratnasari Cahyaningrum, Made Adi Wiranata (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Omnibus Law and the Paradox of Progress: A Critical Discourse Analysis of Labor Rights and Investment Flexibility in Post-Reform Indonesia
This study examines the legislative discourse surrounding Indonesia’s Job Creation Law (Omnibus Law), focusing on the inherent tension between attracting foreign direct investment and upholding constitutional labor protections. Since the 1998 Reformation, Indonesia has struggled to balance neoliberal economic aspirations with social justice mandates. Utilizing Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) on parliamentary debates, policy white papers, and judicial review transcripts, this research identifies a dominant narrative of "emergency economic acceleration" used to justify the erosion of severance pay, job security, and environmental safeguards. The findings suggest that the Omnibus Law represents a significant shift toward a "flexicurity" model that lacks the robust social safety nets found in Western counterparts, effectively creating a paradox where legal progress for capital mobility results in legal regression for labor rights. This paper argues that such legislative strategies may undermine long-term democratic stability by deepening socio-economic inequality. It provides a cautionary case study for other emerging economies attempting to reform complex legal landscapes through high-speed, multi-sectoral legislation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Azzam Haidar Wiraatma, Kaylaresta Ratnadewi Anggraini (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Indonesia’s Digital Transformation: How E-Government is Revolutionizing Public Services
This study investigates Indonesia’s ongoing digital transformation, with a particular focus on the role of e-government in revolutionizing public services. As the country navigates a rapidly evolving digital landscape, e-government initiatives have emerged as crucial tools for enhancing public sector efficiency, improving citizen engagement, and promoting transparency. The research examines the implementation of various e-government programs, such as digitalized administrative services, online public service platforms, and electronic governance systems, assessing their impact on service delivery and the accessibility of government services to the public. This research reveals that while significant progress has been made, including greater convenience for citizens and improved administrative efficiency, challenges persist, including issues related to digital infrastructure, cybersecurity concerns, and disparities in access to technology between urban and rural areas. The novelty of this research lies in its evaluation of both the technological advancements and the socio-political factors that influence the success of e-government initiatives in Indonesia. The urgency of this study is highlighted by the increasing dependence on digital tools in governance, which has been further accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This research contributes to the broader discussion on e-government by offering recommendations for improving digital infrastructure, addressing the digital divide, and ensuring that e-government reforms are inclusive and sustainable in Indonesia’s diverse socio-economic context.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Abdurrahman, Dadang Suherman, Abhiram Bhimasena, Frederick Martin Carlos (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Conservation Science in Indonesia: Protecting the Endangered Species of the Archipelago
This study explores the field of conservation science in Indonesia, focusing on the protection of endangered species across the nation’s vast archipelago. As one of the world’s most biodiverse countries, Indonesia faces immense challenges in conserving its unique flora and fauna, many of which are threatened by habitat loss, illegal poaching, and the effects of climate change. The research investigates the current conservation strategies employed in Indonesia, including efforts to establish protected areas, engage local communities, and enforce anti-poaching laws. Findings highlight the successes and limitations of these strategies, with some species seeing positive outcomes from concerted conservation efforts, while others continue to decline despite these interventions. Key challenges identified include inadequate funding, insufficient local engagement, and the ongoing conflict between development and conservation priorities. The novelty of this study lies in its comprehensive evaluation of Indonesia’s conservation landscape, considering both ecological and socio-political factors that influence conservation outcomes. Given Indonesia’s critical role in global biodiversity preservation, this research is timely and vital for informing future conservation policies and strategies. The study contributes to the broader discourse on biodiversity conservation by offering recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of conservation efforts, such as strengthening community-based initiatives, improving law enforcement, and fostering international collaboration to protect endangered species in Indonesia.
Copyright (c) 2025 Shofa Al-Husna, Mongkut Wiriya, Albertus Elinda Mongga (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Indonesia’s Struggle with Education Inequality: Is Reform the Answer?
This study examines the persistent issue of educational inequality in Indonesia and explores whether educational reforms can effectively address the disparities within the country’s educational system. Despite substantial investments in education and ongoing efforts to enhance access, significant gaps remain in the quality of education between urban and rural areas, as well as among different socio-economic groups. The research analyzes the primary factors contributing to educational inequality, including regional disparities, resource allocation, teacher quality, and the accessibility of educational infrastructure. Findings reveal that while recent reforms, such as the School Operational Assistance (BOS) program and the expansion of vocational education, have made some strides in reducing inequality, significant challenges persist in ensuring equal opportunities for all students. The study highlights that systemic issues, such as the uneven distribution of resources and inadequate teacher training, continue to undermine educational equity. The novelty of this research lies in its comprehensive examination of both policy interventions and the broader socio-economic factors that perpetuate educational inequality. Given the profound implications of educational inequality on Indonesia’s long-term social and economic development, this research is of particular urgency. The study contributes to the wider discourse on educational reform by offering concrete recommendations for advancing educational equity, including improving resource allocation, strengthening teacher training, and ensuring that reforms are more effectively tailored to the needs of marginalized communities.
Copyright (c) 2025 Johan Manik Sidauruk, Monica Susilowati, Kamal Karimullah Akbar (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Digital Economy Boom: How E-Commerce is Reshaping Indonesia’s Market
This study examines the rapid growth of e-commerce and its transformative effects on Indonesia’s digital economy. As one of Southeast Asia's largest and most dynamic markets, Indonesia is undergoing a digital transformation that significantly alters traditional business models and consumer behavior. The research explores the role of e-commerce platforms in reshaping market structures, influencing business practices, and changing consumer purchasing patterns. Findings indicate that e-commerce is a key driver of economic growth, expanding access to goods and services across both urban and rural regions, and promoting financial inclusion. The study also highlights the crucial role of mobile technology and increased internet penetration in facilitating the widespread adoption of online shopping. However, challenges such as logistical inefficiencies, digital payment security, and regulatory frameworks pose significant barriers to the long-term sustainability of e-commerce in Indonesia. The novelty of this research lies in its comprehensive analysis of the digital economy’s evolution, with a specific focus on e-commerce as a central driver of economic change. Given the growing importance of the digital economy in Indonesia’s development, this research is vital for understanding the future trajectory of the market. The study offers valuable insights for businesses, policymakers, and stakeholders, providing recommendations for fostering a secure, inclusive, and sustainable e-commerce ecosystem in Indonesia.
Copyright (c) 2025 Miftahul Jannah, Zuhairo Mahmuda, Amla Alankrita (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Gender Equality in Indonesia’s Legal System: Progress or Stagnation?
This study examines the progress of gender equality within Indonesia's legal system, focusing on whether recent reforms have achieved meaningful change or if they merely represent stagnation. Despite legal advancements, such as the ratification of international conventions and national laws aimed at promoting gender equality, women in Indonesia continue to face significant challenges, including discrimination, violence, and limited access to opportunities in various sectors. This research investigates the alignment of Indonesia’s legal framework with gender equality principles, analyzing legislative reforms, their implementation, and the societal and institutional barriers that hinder their effectiveness. Key findings highlight a persistent gap between legal reforms and societal practices, often compounded by traditional gender norms and weak enforcement mechanisms. While there have been notable improvements in areas such as women’s political participation and domestic violence protection, other issues, including workplace discrimination and the underrepresentation of women in leadership positions, remain inadequately addressed. The novelty of this study lies in its comprehensive evaluation of both legal reforms and their real-world impact, presenting a nuanced understanding of gender equality in Indonesia. Given the country’s dynamic social and political landscape, this research is urgent for informing policymakers, activists, and legal practitioners about the gaps that remain and the necessary steps to ensure that gender equality is not just a legal aspiration but a lived reality. This study contributes to the broader discourse on gender justice by offering concrete recommendations for enhancing the effectiveness of legal reforms in promoting gender equality in Indonesia.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sahid Kumaar, Ikram Muqorrobin, Fathan Al-Faroq (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Role of Social Media in Indonesia’s Political Campaigns: A New Era of Electioneering
This study investigates the transformative impact of social media on political campaigns in Indonesia. With the rapid digitalization of political discourse, social media has become a crucial tool for candidates to engage with voters, shape public opinion, and influence electoral outcomes. This research explores how platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have redefined traditional campaigning methods in Indonesia, fostering new dynamics in political communication, voter mobilization, and the dissemination of information. The study focuses on the increasing prominence of digital strategies in Indonesian elections, particularly during the 2014 and 2019 presidential campaigns. By analyzing campaign materials, social media posts, and public responses, this research highlights how political actors leverage online spaces to create narratives, challenge opponents, and interact directly with the electorate. It also examines the role of "influencers," online communities, and the viral spread of political content in shaping public discourse and opinion. This work contributes to the understanding of how digital media has reshaped the landscape of electoral politics, offering a deeper insight into the intersection of technology, democracy, and public participation in Indonesia. Moreover, it emphasizes the urgency of addressing challenges such as misinformation, digital divide, and the manipulation of online platforms to ensure the integrity of democratic processes. The research ultimately underscores the need for comprehensive strategies to regulate social media's role in elections while promoting transparent, inclusive, and fair political participation.
Copyright (c) 2024 Amiluddin Assaefi, Batari Laskarwati, Zainurrohmah Zainurrohmah (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Indonesia’s Foreign Policy: Navigating Relations Between the U.S., China, and ASEAN
This research investigates Indonesia's foreign policy in the context of its strategic positioning between the U.S., China, and the ASEAN bloc. As one of Southeast Asia’s largest and most influential countries, Indonesia faces the challenge of balancing its relations with major global powers while maintaining its leadership role within ASEAN. This study explores Indonesia’s diplomatic approach, considering historical ties, economic interests, and security concerns. The purpose is to evaluate how Indonesia navigates the complex dynamics of great power competition between the U.S. and China, while also reinforcing regional unity and cooperation through ASEAN. Key findings highlight Indonesia’s pragmatic stance, emphasizing a policy of neutrality, non-alignment, and multilateralism, often seeking to mediate tensions and promote regional stability. However, the research also identifies challenges, such as the growing pressure from both the U.S. and China to take sides in geopolitical disputes. The novelty of this study lies in its comprehensive analysis of Indonesia’s strategic balancing act, focusing on how the country leverages its position to advance national interests and regional cohesion. Given the shifting global power landscape, this research is particularly urgent for understanding Indonesia’s role in shaping the future of ASEAN and its broader implications for international diplomacy. This study contributes to the discourse on Southeast Asian foreign policy by offering a nuanced perspective on Indonesia’s navigation of complex international relations and providing recommendations for policymakers in addressing these evolving challenges.
Copyright (c) 2024 Judith Emmanuel, Windiahsari Windiahsari, Hee-Joon Kim (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Role of Batik in Indonesia’s National Identity and Global Fashion Trends
Batik, a traditional Indonesian textile art, holds a deep cultural significance that has long been associated with national identity. However, while much has been written about Batik’s historical and cultural relevance, there remains a lack of comprehensive analysis on how it has evolved within contemporary global fashion trends and its role in shaping Indonesia's modern national identity. This paper aims to fill this gap by exploring Batik’s dual significance: as a symbol of cultural heritage and as an increasingly influential element in the global fashion industry. Despite Batik’s recognition by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, its adaptation to modern fashion contexts and the economic implications of this transition are often overlooked. By addressing these issues, the study provides insights into how Batik has transcended its traditional role and is now contributing to global fashion while reinforcing its cultural and national importance.
Copyright (c) 2024 Sutan Akbar, Zuhairoh El Muna, Ruhana Abdul Karim (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Future of Indonesian Fishing Communities Amidst Climate Change
This study explores the future of Indonesian fishing communities in the face of climate change, focusing on the intersection of environmental, social, and economic challenges. Indonesia, an archipelagic nation with a significant reliance on marine resources, is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels, changing fish migration patterns, and extreme weather events. The study employs a multi-disciplinary approach, combining climate science, fisheries management, and socio-economic analysis, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and potential solutions for these communities. Key findings highlight the disproportionate effects of climate change on small-scale fishers, who are often the most vulnerable to environmental shifts due to limited adaptive capacity and reliance on declining marine resources. Novel contributions include the identification of community-driven adaptation strategies and the role of traditional ecological knowledge in enhancing resilience. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the urgent need for policy interventions that integrate both local and global efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change on Indonesia's fishing sector. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable fisheries management by offering practical recommendations for enhancing the adaptive capacity of Indonesian fishing communities, ensuring food security, and preserving marine biodiversity. The findings underscore the necessity for a holistic approach, combining scientific, social, and economic considerations to safeguard the future of these communities amid the growing climate crisis.
Copyright (c) 2024 Tajudeen Sani, Siti Alimatul Ulya, Tun Muhammad Razak (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Indonesia’s Culinary Evolution: From Street Food to Michelin Stars
This study explores the dynamic transformation of Indonesia’s food culture, tracing its journey from humble street food stalls to internationally acclaimed fine dining establishments. This research delves into the social, cultural, and economic factors that have shaped Indonesia’s culinary scene, highlighting how traditional flavors and techniques have been reinterpreted in contemporary settings. The study examines the growing recognition of Indonesian cuisine on the global stage, particularly in light of the recent introduction of Michelin stars in the country. By investigating the fusion of local ingredients with international cooking methods, the research underscores the significance of culinary innovation in elevating Indonesia's food culture. The analysis focuses on key moments of change, such as the rise of high-end Indonesian restaurants, the increasing influence of food media, and the integration of culinary tourism in the national economy. The study also emphasizes the role of street food in preserving Indonesia’s cultural identity while driving culinary experimentation. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of how globalization and modernization intersect with traditional food practices, offering insights into the role of food in national identity and cultural pride. Additionally, it addresses the challenges and opportunities facing Indonesia’s culinary industry, including sustainability, cultural preservation, and the balancing of tradition with modernity. By tracing Indonesia’s culinary evolution, this work highlights the importance of food as a key element of cultural diplomacy and economic development in the globalized world.
Copyright (c) 2024 Angeline Dexter, Nur Qomariah, Muhammad Zaiddurrohman (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Chinese-Indonesian Community, Constitutional Debates, and Citizenship: Navigating Identity and Rights
This study explores the complex interplay between ethnicity, citizenship, and national identity in Indonesia, particularly focusing on the Chinese-Indonesian community. This research critically examines the historical and ongoing struggles for recognition and rights of the Chinese-Indonesian minority, particularly in relation to constitutional debates surrounding citizenship and identity. The study investigates the ways in which the Chinese-Indonesian community, often marginalized and subjected to discriminatory policies, has navigated the evolving definitions of national belonging in Indonesia's post-independence period. Drawing on primary sources such as constitutional documents, legislative debates, and testimonies from Chinese-Indonesian individuals, the research highlights the fluctuating status of this community from Indonesia’s early years as a republic to its modern-day democracy. The study emphasizes the centrality of constitutional reform in shaping the community's legal rights, particularly the struggle for equality and protection from discrimination in the face of political shifts and societal prejudice. This research makes a vital contribution to understanding the tensions between ethnicity, citizenship, and national identity in a multiethnic society like Indonesia. It provides insights into how legal frameworks and political debates have influenced the integration of ethnic minorities, particularly the Chinese-Indonesian group, into the broader national narrative. Additionally, it underscores the urgency of addressing historical injustices and promoting inclusive citizenship, particularly through ongoing debates on equality, recognition, and human rights in contemporary Indonesia. This work is crucial for informing future discussions on multiculturalism, citizenship, and identity in Indonesia and beyond.
Copyright (c) 2024 Sarah Avicena, Alex Prima Judith, Srivan Kusumaningsih (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Religious Tensions in Time and Space: The ‘Controversial’ Interfaith Dynamics in Indonesia
Indonesia, with its diverse religious landscape, has long been a site of interfaith interaction, where religious tensions often intersect with historical, social, and political forces. The dynamics of these interfaith relations are shaped by both time and space, with ongoing contestations surrounding the boundaries of religious practice, identity, and coexistence. This paper examines the ‘controversial’ nature of interfaith dynamics in Indonesia, particularly focusing on the ways religious tensions manifest across different temporal and spatial contexts. By analyzing the shifting role of religious minorities, the impact of political policies, and the influence of local cultural contexts, the paper investigates how time and space contribute to the fluidity and volatility of interfaith relations in the country. The urgency of this research lies in the growing challenges Indonesia faces in balancing its pluralistic ideals with rising religious conservatism and exclusivism, which often escalate tensions. This study offers novel insights into the spatial and temporal dimensions of religious identity formation, showing how contested religious spaces—whether urban or rural—serve as battlegrounds for social, cultural, and political power. Furthermore, it contributes to the academic discourse on the role of religion in shaping national identity, highlighting how the intersection of historical legacies and contemporary religious practices in Indonesia creates an ongoing tension between harmony and conflict. Ultimately, this paper underscores the complexity of interfaith relations in Indonesia, offering a nuanced understanding of how time and space shape the contentious nature of religious coexistence.
Copyright (c) 2024 Muhammad Ihram Maliki, Zaharuddin Sani Ahmad Sabri, Mahmuda Putri Keumala, Fransiscus Johan Simbolon (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Koentjaraningrat and the Evolution of Indonesian Anthropology: Intellectual Pathways and Nation-Building
Koentjaraningrat, a central figure in Indonesian anthropology, played a pivotal role in the development of the discipline in the country, particularly during the post-colonial period. While anthropology in Indonesia was deeply influenced by colonial powers and Western intellectual traditions, Koentjaraningrat’s work marked a significant shift as he contributed to the discipline’s indigenization, making it relevant to Indonesia's unique socio-cultural and political context. Despite extensive research on Indonesian anthropology, a gap exists in understanding the full scope of Koentjaraningrat's intellectual journey and his influence on both the academic and nation-building processes. This paper seeks to fill this gap by tracing the evolution of his ideas and analyzing how his anthropological framework helped shape Indonesia’s post-colonial identity. The urgency of this research lies in its relevance to current debates on the role of anthropology in nation-building and decolonization. By critically examining Koentjaraningrat’s intellectual contributions, this study reveals the novelty of his approach, which blended Western methodologies with indigenous perspectives, fostering a more inclusive and locally grounded understanding of Indonesian society. The research contributes to both the academic field of anthropology and the broader discourse on post-colonial nation-building by emphasizing the transformative role of anthropology in shaping Indonesia’s national identity. This paper also highlights the broader implications of Koentjaraningrat’s work for contemporary social sciences in Indonesia, underscoring the enduring relevance of his intellectual legacy in the context of globalized knowledge production.
Copyright (c) 2024 Ilham Musyaffar, Sayyed Hosen, Sintya Adiguna Bhakti (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Iron Shadows Behind the Smile of Power: Torture Under the New Order Indonesia
This study critically examines the pervasive and systematic use of torture during Indonesia's New Order regime (1966-1998). This research underscores the urgent need to address the historical and ongoing implications of state-sponsored violence in Indonesia. Despite Indonesia’s transition to a democratic system, the legacies of repression and torture continue to shape the country’s political and social landscape. The study analyzes the mechanisms of torture under the New Order, focusing on the state's efforts to silence dissent, control political opposition, and maintain power through fear. Through an examination of archival materials, testimonies from victims, and interviews with human rights activists, this research illuminates the institutionalized practices of torture employed by the Indonesian military and police, often justified under the guise of national security and anti-communism. The work also highlights the impact of these practices on both individual lives and the broader society, contributing to a climate of fear that has persisted even after the regime’s downfall. This research makes a significant contribution by offering a comprehensive analysis of torture's role in reinforcing the power structures of the New Order, revealing the psychological and social costs of authoritarian rule. Furthermore, it emphasizes the urgent need for transitional justice and accountability mechanisms to address the crimes of the past. By providing a historical framework, the study advocates for a broader understanding of Indonesia’s political transformation, shedding light on the continuing struggle for justice and human rights in the post-New Order era.
Copyright (c) 2024 Said Amrullah, Souad Ezzerouali, Miftahuddin Ahmad (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Aceh Under Syari’ah: Faith, Law, and Society
The implementation of Syari'ah law in Aceh has been a significant and often contentious aspect of the region’s post-conflict reconstruction process. Following the 2005 peace agreement between the Indonesian government and the Free Aceh Movement (Gerakan Aceh Merdeka, GAM), Aceh became the only province in Indonesia with the legal mandate to enforce Syari'ah law. This research explores the intersection of faith, law, and society in Aceh, examining how Syari'ah has reshaped not only legal frameworks but also the daily lives of its people. Despite its importance, there exists a gap in understanding the broader social implications of Syari'ah’s implementation, particularly its effects on gender, civil rights, and the overall social fabric. Previous studies have focused on the legal and political aspects, yet little attention has been given to the lived experiences of Acehnese citizens under this system. This study aims to address this gap by analyzing the societal transformations resulting from Syari'ah law, specifically focusing on how religious practices and legal structures interact within the Acehnese context. The urgency of this research lies in the increasing global attention to Islamic legal systems and their integration into state governance, offering a comparative lens for other regions pursuing similar models. Novel in its approach, the research contributes to a deeper understanding of the real-world implications of Syari'ah law on faith, law, and society, with particular attention to its effects on minority groups and social cohesion. Ultimately, it highlights the broader implications for peace-building in post-conflict societies, offering valuable insights for scholars and policymakers alike.
Copyright (c) 2024 Ridwan Arifin, Siti Hafsyah Idris, Tajudeen Sani, Ngaboawaji Daniel Nte (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0