Aguan Buka Kartu Soal IKN, Sinyal Kuat Oligarki Tinggalkan Jokowi?

Summary

In this interview, Aguan Taipan, the owner of Agung Sedayu Group, reveals that the massive investments by oligarchs in Indonesia's New Capital City (IKN) are not driven by economic potential, but rather by a desire to protect the image of President Jokowi. This statement highlights the evolving relationship between political power and oligarchs in Indonesia. The oligarchs, who once fully supported President Suharto, now control political dynamics, adjusting their support based on shifting power. As Jokowi's influence wanes, the oligarchs are repositioning themselves, signaling a shift in the political landscape of the nation.

Takeaways

• 😀 The large-scale investments in IKN (Indonesia's new capital) by oligarchs are not only economically driven but also politically motivated, aimed at preserving the face of President Jokowi.
• 😀 Aguan Taipan, a major business figure, reveals that oligarchs invested in IKN based on a direct command from President Jokowi, showcasing the intertwining of politics and business.
• 😀 Oligarchs in Indonesia now hold significant political power, with the ability to influence and switch allegiances depending on the political landscape.
• 😀 Unlike the era of Soeharto, where oligarchs were fully subservient to the president, today's oligarchs control and align themselves with power to safeguard their business interests.
• 😀 The political relationship between Jokowi and oligarchs is shifting, with signs that the oligarchs are starting to withdraw their support from the president.
• 😀 The victory of Pramono Anung and Rano Karno in the Jakarta gubernatorial election symbolizes a move away from Jokowi's influence, indicating a shift in power.
• 😀 Aguan suggests that oligarchs are strategically positioning themselves by aligning with the winning political factions to protect their business ventures in strategic areas like North Jakarta's reclamation islands.
• 😀 In 2017, a calculation showed that the total profits from the reclamation projects along Pantai Indah Kapuk could reach 560 trillion IDR, highlighting the immense economic potential these projects hold for oligarchs.
• 😀 Jokowi's diminishing influence is becoming apparent, as oligarchs begin to show signs of independence, withdrawing support from the president as his power slowly fades.
• 😀 The comment by Aguan, 'We’re saving the president’s face,' serves as a key indication of the complex and opportunistic nature of political-business relations in Indonesia, with oligarchs now preparing for future shifts in political power.

Q & A

What is the main point Aguan made about the investment in IKN?

Aguan stated that the large investments in Indonesia's new capital city (IKN) were not driven by economic potential but were instead motivated by an order from President Jokowi to protect his image, reflecting the influence of oligarchs on political power.

How does Aguan's statement reveal the relationship between power and oligarchy in Indonesia?

Aguan's statement highlights the shifting dynamic where oligarchs, once fully under the control of President Jokowi, now act strategically, deciding when to support the ruling power and when to distance themselves. This shows that oligarchs are increasingly politically astute.

What does Aguan’s comment about saving the president’s face imply about political power dynamics in Indonesia?

Aguan’s comment suggests that the oligarchs’ investments were partly aimed at preserving President Jokowi’s image, signaling that the oligarchs still held considerable influence over political decisions. However, it also hints that their loyalty may be shifting as Jokowi's power wanes.

How does the situation now differ from the era of President Soeharto in terms of oligarchic influence?

Under President Soeharto, oligarchs were fully under the control of the president. In contrast, the modern oligarchy in Indonesia is more independent, calculating when to align with power and when to break away, reflecting a shift in the balance of power.

What significance does the victory of Pramono Anung and Rano Karno in the Jakarta gubernatorial race have?

The victory of Pramono Anung and Rano Karno signifies a shift in Jakarta’s political control, which had been a stronghold of President Jokowi. This victory suggests that Jokowi's influence over Jakarta is diminishing, a key moment in the changing political landscape.

What role does Jakarta play in the political and economic landscape of Indonesia?

Jakarta is central to both Indonesia's political and economic power. Its strategic importance makes it a key focal point for both political control and business interests, which is why the changing political situation in Jakarta is a significant development.

How do the reclamation projects in Jakarta relate to the oligarchs’ interests?

The reclamation projects in Jakarta, particularly on the northern islands, are tied to the business interests of the oligarchs, who hold substantial land in these areas. The projects have the potential to generate massive profits, making them a focal point for the oligarchs' investments.

What was the projected profit from the reclamation projects in 2017?

In 2017, Daniel Johan, a political figure, calculated that the profits from the reclamation projects along Jakarta’s northern coastline could amount to around 560 trillion IDR, demonstrating the immense financial stakes involved for the oligarchs.

How does Aguan’s statement indicate a shift in the political power dynamics in Indonesia?

Aguan’s statement suggests that the oligarchs are pulling their support from Jokowi, which indicates that his political influence is waning. This shift is a sign of a changing political environment where oligarchs are positioning themselves for future power realignments.

What does the phrase 'We saved the president’s face' reveal about the oligarchs' role in politics?

The phrase 'We saved the president’s face' reveals that the oligarchs see themselves as crucial players in protecting and sustaining the image and power of political leaders. It underscores the symbiotic relationship between business elites and political figures in Indonesia.