ORDE BARU (1966-1998)

Summary

This video delves into the era of New Order under President Suharto in Indonesia, exploring the transition from Sukarno's regime and the significant political and economic reforms that followed. The script highlights key events such as the 30th September Movement, the establishment of the New Order in 1966, the implementation of Pancasila, and the influence of Golkar, military, and economics. It also touches upon pivotal policies like the Green Revolution and major social unrest events, including the Malari incident and the 27 July 1996 riots. The content provides an insightful look at Indonesia's political landscape, challenges, and reforms during Suharto's leadership.

Takeaways

• 😀 The 'Orde Baru' (New Order) period in Indonesia lasted from 1966 to 1998, marked by significant political, social, and economic changes under President Suharto.
• 😀 The transition from Sukarno's era to Suharto's leadership was influenced by the 30 September 1965 movement, which resulted in the rise of the military and the fall of the Indonesian Communist Party (PKI).
• 😀 The New Order government emphasized the implementation of Pancasila (the national ideology) and the 1945 Constitution, marking a shift from Sukarno's era of guided democracy.
• 😀 The 1966 'Supersemar' decree, which transferred authority from President Sukarno to Suharto, was a pivotal moment in the establishment of the New Order regime.
• 😀 Under the New Order, there was strong state control, especially through Golkar (a political party associated with Suharto) and the Indonesian military (ABRI).
• 😀 The period was marked by authoritarian rule, including restrictions on freedom of the press, limitations on student demonstrations, and the enforcement of loyalty to the government.
• 😀 The New Order era was plagued by corruption, collusion, and nepotism (KKN), which negatively impacted the country's democracy despite regular elections.
• 😀 Indonesia's foreign policy during the New Order included rejoining the United Nations in 1967 and forging new diplomatic ties, such as with China, while distancing itself from Malaysia.
• 😀 The government's economic policies were focused on modernization and development, including the 'Pelita' five-year plans, which aimed at agricultural and industrial growth.
• 😀 The New Order period also witnessed significant social and political unrest, including the Malari Incident in 1974, student protests, and the eventual rise of Megawati's opposition party, PDI Perjuangan.

Q & A

What was the main reason behind the establishment of the New Order regime in Indonesia?

The New Order regime was established following the 1965 G30S/PKI incident, which led to the downfall of President Sukarno. The new regime aimed to restructure Indonesian society and governance based on Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution.

What was the significance of Supersemar in the transition from Sukarno to Soeharto's leadership?

Supersemar, or the March 11, 1966 letter, gave General Soeharto the authority to assume control of the government, marking the official transition from President Sukarno's leadership to Soeharto's New Order regime.

What were the key features of the New Order's governance?

The New Order regime was characterized by strict implementation of Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution, a strong state role in governance, authoritarianism, and an economy that heavily favored Golkar and ABRI (military).

How did the New Order government deal with political opposition?

The New Order government restricted political opposition by limiting freedom of the press, banning demonstrations, and requiring civil servants to support Golkar. It also carried out military operations like Petrus (mysterious shootings) to suppress opposition.

What was the purpose of the Catur Karya program under Soeharto’s government?

The Catur Karya program aimed to improve the quality of life in Indonesia by addressing four key areas: improving education, creating jobs, expanding foreign relations, and achieving social justice.

What were the major outcomes of the Orde Baru's economic policies?

The economic policies of the New Order, which included efforts like the Trilogi Pembangunan (Pillars of Development), aimed at economic growth, equitable distribution, and national stability. However, these policies were tainted by corruption and nepotism.

How did the New Order regime handle the role of the military in politics?

The military played a dual role under the New Order: maintaining national security (Hankam) and engaging in social and political affairs. This often resulted in military personnel holding positions in the government.

What was the significance of the Malari incident in 1974?

The Malari incident in 1974 was a major student protest against the increasing foreign investment in Indonesia, particularly from Japan. It highlighted the public's dissatisfaction with foreign influence and perceived economic inequality.

What was the impact of the Green Revolution during the New Order period?

The Green Revolution under the New Order led to increased agricultural production in Indonesia, particularly rice, helping the country achieve food self-sufficiency by 1984. However, the policies were controversial as they pushed for rice cultivation across diverse regions, neglecting local food preferences.

How did Indonesia's foreign policy evolve under Soeharto's leadership?

Indonesia's foreign policy under Soeharto emphasized a non-aligned stance, actively participating in international organizations like ASEAN and the UN. Indonesia also worked to mend relations with countries like Malaysia and China, and rejoined the UN after a period of withdrawal.