Former President of Indonesia on Political Transition

Summary

In this interview, the speaker reflects on Indonesia's political transition, offering advice to incoming President Prabowo Subianto. They discuss the state of Indonesia's democracy, acknowledging both its progress and challenges, including corruption. The speaker also touches on the geopolitical dynamics of U.S.-China relations, advocating for a balanced foreign policy. They highlight Indonesia’s role in regional stability and the importance of addressing climate change. Additionally, the speaker praises infrastructure development under President Jokowi while emphasizing the need for further investment in human capital and sustainable growth.

Takeaways

• 😀 The importance of a smooth political transition: Former president highlights that a well-prepared transition of power, like the one Prabowo Subianto is experiencing, can lead to a better future for Indonesia.
• 😀 Democracy in Indonesia: The conversation about democracy continues, with recognition that it requires constant work and challenges. The need for evaluation and safeguarding democracy is crucial.
• 😀 Acknowledgment of Indonesia's challenges: Despite the growth of democracy, corruption remains a concern, and protests over perceived political manipulation indicate the need for ongoing vigilance.
• 😀 Role of political figures: While there is speculation about the potential for former president Widodo to intervene in politics, the speaker refrains from making direct comments, stressing political correctness and respect for the current leader's authority.
• 😀 Prabowo's foreign policy outlook: Prabowo's understanding of geopolitics and his commitment to maintaining peace in Southeast Asia and within ASEAN is key to Indonesia's role on the global stage.
• 😀 Geopolitics and the U.S.-China rivalry: Indonesia’s position in the U.S.-China rivalry is balanced, with a focus on cooperation between both countries to stimulate economic growth, combat climate change, and reduce poverty.
• 😀 Indonesia's leadership role: Indonesia’s importance as a regional power and G20 member enables it to play a crucial role in addressing regional tensions and promoting stability through diplomacy.
• 😀 The potential of an advisory council: Prabowo's idea of an advisory council with former presidents is discussed. While it is seen as a good initiative, the speaker believes that a structured, formalized council may be counterproductive and that good relations between leaders are sufficient.
• 😀 Infrastructure development: While President Jokowi has made significant strides in infrastructure development, the focus should now shift to building more electricity, seaports, airports, and technology infrastructure to further support economic growth.
• 😀 Climate change and global cooperation: There is optimism and pessimism about addressing climate change. While global agreements like the Paris Agreement set the stage, domestic efforts must be strengthened, and all sectors must contribute to meaningful progress.
• 😀 U.S. political division and global leadership: Despite internal political challenges, the U.S. must remain a key player in global solutions. The speaker hopes for a stable U.S. leadership that will contribute positively to global challenges, with emphasis on responsibility that comes with great power.

Q & A

What advice did the former president give to the incoming president, Prabowo Subianto?

The former president emphasized the importance of a smooth transition, noting that unlike his own experience with a rushed transition, Prabowo has more time to prepare. He expressed confidence that Prabowo will address Indonesia's challenges and capitalize on its opportunities effectively.

What are the key concerns regarding Indonesia's democracy, according to the former president?

The former president acknowledged both the successes and challenges of Indonesia's democracy, highlighting concerns over corruption and recent protests. He emphasized the need for continuous dialogue about democracy to evaluate what is working and what needs improvement, stressing the importance of safeguarding democratic values.

How does the former president feel about the relationship between President Widodo and the incoming president?

The former president believes that President Widodo and Prabowo have a good relationship, which should positively influence the political atmosphere. He did not speculate on whether Widodo would intervene in Prabowo's presidency but refrained from making further comments on the matter.

What is the former president's view on Indonesia's role in the U.S.-China rivalry?

He believes Indonesia will play a critical role in maintaining regional stability amidst the U.S.-China rivalry. Indonesia, as a regional power, should encourage peaceful dialogue and cooperation, especially regarding issues like the South China Sea. The former president also stressed that Indonesia's foreign policy should prioritize peace, economic growth, and addressing global challenges like climate change.

What does the former president think about the idea of an advisory council consisting of former presidents?

While he acknowledged the idea of a 'Presidents Club' or advisory council, he expressed skepticism about its structure, suggesting it could be counterproductive. He emphasized the importance of giving Prabowo the space to lead and recommended maintaining positive relationships between current and former leaders, without formalizing such a council.

What are the former president's thoughts on infrastructure development in Indonesia?

The former president praised President Widodo's infrastructure achievements, particularly in building toll roads. However, he emphasized the need for a broader focus on building other types of infrastructure, such as electricity, seaports, and technology. He also stressed the importance of investing in human capital alongside physical infrastructure to support Indonesia's economic growth.

How does the former president view the development of electric vehicle infrastructure in Indonesia?

The former president recognizes the importance of developing electric vehicle charging infrastructure to support the growing market for electric vehicles (EVs) in Indonesia. He noted that EV penetration is currently low, but infrastructure development is key to enabling consumers to make the switch to electric vehicles.

What does the former president think about global climate change efforts?

The former president expressed both optimism and concern about global climate change efforts. He acknowledged progress in international cooperation but stressed that real change depends on the involvement of all stakeholders, including governments, private sectors, and citizens. He highlighted the importance of every country doing its part in combating climate change.

What was the former president's suggestion to President Obama regarding environmental governance?

He suggested to President Obama that Indonesia's Ministry of Environment should be revived as a stand-alone ministry, separate from the Ministry of Forestry, to focus more effectively on environmental issues. He noted that the environment ministry's independence would allow for a more focused approach to climate change.

What is the former president's perspective on U.S. political fragmentation and its impact on global leadership?

The former president expressed concern over political fragmentation in the U.S., particularly the divide between Democrats and Republicans. He stressed the importance of the U.S. playing a constructive and unified role in global affairs, citing the country's responsibility to contribute to solving global challenges alongside other nations like China and Europe.