Hobby "Berternak Penguasa"

Summary

The transcript discusses the concept of a 'shadow state' in Indonesia, where informal political and business powers control government decisions, particularly during democratic transitions. These powers, often referred to as 'cukong,' manipulate political contests and decisions, leading to widespread corruption and monopolies. The practice has deep historical roots, with examples dating back to ancient China. The script also highlights the negative impacts on national development, including the stifling of domestic industries and the exploitation of state resources for personal gain. It emphasizes the long-term dangers of such practices for a nation's stability and growth.

Takeaways

• 😀 William Reno's 1995 research highlights the consequences of weakening government roles during transitions, leading to a shift from formal to informal power structures.
• 😀 The emergence of informal governance practices by political and economic forces outside formal structures, often referred to as 'shadow states', is a significant phenomenon.
• 😀 In Indonesia, the process of democratic transition has been heavily influenced by political and business collusion between elites and their client networks.
• 😀 Politicians who win elections often provide loyalty to external elites outside of formal government structures, who can then influence decision-making and policy implementation.
• 😀 Informal power brokers act as intermediaries between government officials and their clients, playing a dominant role in political victories.
• 😀 Political mentors, donors, and 'whisperers' are examples of key figures involved in informal governance, often holding considerable sway over elected officials.
• 😀 The concept of 'Sedo State' in Indonesia reflects historical practices, particularly within the Chinese community, dating back to 300 BCE, where certain individuals helped others gain power in exchange for influence and profit.
• 😀 The term 'cukong', derived from Chinese, refers to influential financiers who funded political figures in exchange for power, often shaping political landscapes.
• 😀 The long-term objective of Sedo State is to perpetuate power and control over national wealth through political decisions and their execution.
• 😀 The Sedo State model has harmful effects on state institutions, fostering corruption through schemes like uncontrolled rent-seeking practices at both central and regional levels.

Q & A

What is the 'shadow state' as discussed in the script?

The 'shadow state' refers to the informal power structures and networks outside the formal government system that influence decision-making, often through political and economic elites who control resources and can manipulate government policies.

How does the transition period in a country affect the role of informal powers?

During periods of political transition, the weakening of formal government institutions often leads to the rise of informal power structures, where control shifts from the state to private, informal entities with political and economic influence.

What role do informal power brokers play in Indonesian politics, according to the script?

In Indonesia, informal power brokers play a significant role by connecting elected officials with political and business elites. These brokers help influence electoral outcomes and can dictate government policies, sometimes operating outside formal governance structures.

What is the historical context of informal power in Chinese society, as mentioned in the script?

The practice of informal power, known as 'shadow state,' has a long history in China, dating back to at least the third century BCE. This practice involves influential figures, such as wealthy merchants or political mentors, exerting control over public affairs and officials.

How do 'cukong' (powerful business figures) relate to the shadow state in Indonesia?

In Indonesia, 'cukong' are wealthy business figures who manipulate the political system by financing political campaigns and forming alliances with elected officials. These figures often benefit from their influence by securing government contracts or favorable policies.

What is the impact of shadow state practices on the government and economy?

The shadow state undermines formal governance by enabling corruption, economic manipulation, and the concentration of wealth and power in the hands of a few. It can lead to inefficient governance, economic inequality, and stunted development in both public and private sectors.

What historical anecdote is provided to explain the influence of informal power in Chinese culture?

The script references an anecdote from the third century BCE, where Lubu, a prime minister in the Jin dynasty, learned from his father that helping someone rise to power, such as becoming a ruler or a high-ranking official, could bring enormous rewards, highlighting the longstanding nature of informal power in Chinese society.

How do contractors and traders influence the government according to the script?

Contractors and traders, especially those with ties to informal power networks, influence the government by exploiting public projects and trade deals. They often manipulate government resources, such as project funding or imports, for personal gain, undermining national industries.

What are the dangers of unchecked practices within a shadow state?

Unchecked practices in a shadow state lead to the corruption of government institutions, where public resources are misused for private gain. Over time, this erodes public trust, stifles economic development, and perpetuates inequality.

What is the relationship between political parties and informal power structures in Indonesia?

Political parties in Indonesia often form alliances with informal power structures, including business elites and influential individuals. These alliances allow elites to maintain control over political processes, including elections, policy decisions, and governmental functions.