KEJAYAAN DI MASA SOEHARTO | Episode Pertama

Summary

The video discusses the turbulent political and economic landscape of Indonesia from the late 1960s to the late 1990s. It highlights the rise of President Suharto following the chaotic fall of Sukarno and the New Order regime's efforts to stabilize the economy, which included significant foreign investments and reforms. Despite early successes, such as substantial economic growth and poverty reduction, the regime was marred by widespread corruption, repression, and human rights violations. The narrative culminates in the 1998 financial crisis, leading to Suharto's resignation, marking a pivotal moment in Indonesian history.

Takeaways

• 📅 In 1998, Indonesia experienced widespread violence and unrest due to severe economic crises, including inflation reaching 77%.
• 👥 Thousands of activists and students occupied government offices, demanding President Suharto's resignation, which occurred on May 21, 1998.
• 📉 The economic situation deteriorated significantly during the Old Order, leading to hyperinflation that peaked at 600% in 1965.
• ⚔️ Suharto rose to power after the coup in 1965, implementing a regime that focused on political stability and economic recovery.
• 💼 The New Order government attracted foreign investments and implemented economic reforms, successfully reducing inflation from 600% to 60%.
• 🌍 Suharto's administration fostered international relations, rejoining organizations like the IMF and World Bank to stabilize the economy.
• 🌾 The government launched several five-year development plans (Repelita), focusing on infrastructure, agriculture, and education improvements.
• 🏆 Under Suharto, Indonesia saw significant achievements in food production and literacy, gaining the nickname 'Asian Tiger.'
• 💰 Despite economic growth, the regime faced criticism for widespread corruption, nepotism, and unequal distribution of wealth.
• ⚠️ The 1997 Asian Financial Crisis exposed the vulnerabilities of Indonesia's economy, leading to mass protests and Suharto's eventual resignation.

Q & A

What were the main causes of the chaos in Jakarta in 1998?

The chaos in Jakarta in 1998 was primarily caused by the deteriorating economic conditions in Indonesia, marked by a staggering inflation rate of 77%, along with rampant corruption and mismanagement by the government.

What actions did activists and students take in May 1998?

On May 18, 1998, thousands of activists and students occupied the MPR and DPR offices, demanding the resignation of President Soeharto.

What was the outcome of Soeharto's presidency on May 21, 1998?

President Soeharto resigned from his position on May 21, 1998, which was celebrated by activists and students who had protested for his removal.

How did the economic policies during the New Order period impact Indonesia?

The economic policies during the New Order period initially led to significant growth, stabilizing inflation from 600% to 60% and achieving a GDP growth rate of 10.9% by 1968, but they were also marred by corruption and issues of foreign investment dependency.

Who were the 'Berkeley Mafia' and what role did they play in Indonesia's economy?

The 'Berkeley Mafia' was a group of Indonesian economists trained at the University of California, Berkeley, who were instrumental in shaping Indonesia's economic policies during the New Order, focusing on attracting foreign investment and stabilizing the economy.

What were the key developments in the agricultural sector during the New Order?

The New Order government made significant investments in agriculture, achieving self-sufficiency in rice production by 1985 and receiving recognition from the FAO for its achievements.

What impact did foreign investments have on Indonesia's economic landscape?

Foreign investments brought substantial capital into Indonesia, which facilitated economic growth and job creation, although it also led to challenges such as increased foreign influence and dependency.

What significant events marked the end of the New Order regime?

The New Order regime came to an end during the 1998 financial crisis, which highlighted the regime's corruption and led to widespread protests against Soeharto's government.

What measures did Soeharto take to address the political instability he inherited?

Soeharto focused on consolidating power by eliminating remnants of the Old Order, launching anti-communist purges, and establishing a new political narrative to stabilize the country.

How did Soeharto's government respond to the crisis of the early 1980s?

In response to the economic crisis of the early 1980s, Soeharto's government promoted exports, allowed new private banks to form, and liberalized the banking sector to recover economic stability.