A tragic cost of policy militarization
The deaths of two candidates for the Merah Putih Village Cooperative (Kopdes) management program during military-style training should force Indonesia to ask an uncomfortable question: why are future cooperative managers being trained like soldiers in the first place?
The politics of a phone call
In politics, symbolism often matters as much as substance. That is why Deputy Speaker of the House Sufmi Dasco Ahmad’s decision to publicly call Pertamina’s leadership during a national labor gathering deserves closer attention.
More New Schools
People’s Schools, Garuda Schools, and now a new model is in the works: Integrated National Schools. Through the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, the government is reportedly set to build 100 Integrated National Schools starting this year, backed by a budget allocation of Rp 7.21 trillion. But what exactly distinguishes these schools from the special-school schemes already on the table, and what problem is the government trying to solve by creating yet another one?
The battle behind NU’s ministerial debate
Nahdlatul Ulama’s (NU) recent National Conference (Munas-Konbes) was expected to discuss a range of organizational and policy issues, from governance reforms to the government’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program. Yet one debate overshadowed everything else: whether a cabinet minister should be allowed to simultaneously serve as chairman of the Executive Board (PBNU).
West Java’s education problem
The controversy surrounding West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi’s free-school program has quickly evolved into a debate about subsidies, private schools, and access to education. But beneath the headlines lies a more fundamental question: Why does Indonesia still lack a unified national vision for education?
MBG’s Dilemma
After more than a year, the Free Nutritious Meal program (MBG) has now become a battleground. Students are protesting against it, SPPG partners are demanding its continuation, and BGN officials have begun pointing fingers amid an alleged corruption case. Each side has something at stake, and no matter how the program unfolds, someone will still be left paying the price.
House Renovations for People’s School Students
When people hear about People’s Schools, housing renovations are probably not the first thing that comes to mind. Public discussions have largely centered on classrooms, dormitories, teachers, and the program’s potential impact on educational access. Yet the government is now planning to renovate 10,000 houses belonging to parents of People’s School students through the Housing Stimulus Assistance Program (BSPS), a joint initiative between the Ministry of Social Affairs and the Ministry of Housing and Settlements.
The politics of blame
In recent weeks, allegations have surfaced linking PDIP to anti-government protests, including demonstrations involving former University of Gadjah Mada student leader Tiyo Ardianto. The accusations intensified after members of BEM Bersatu claimed to have found connections between Tiyo and figures associated with PDIP and former Ganjar Pranowo supporters.
Raising the Hajj deposit
The proposal to increase initial Hajj deposit from Rp25 million to Rp35 million has reignited a familiar debate: how to sustain the country’s Hajj financing system without closing the door on millions of aspiring pilgrims. While the idea may make sense from a financial management perspective, it risks treating a symptom rather than addressing the root cause of Indonesia’s Hajj problem.
People on the move
The appointment of former Air Force chief Fadjar Prasetyo as Commander of the Joint Regional Defense Command (Kogabwilhan) II may appear to be a routine military reshuffle. Yet the decision comes at a particularly sensitive moment for Indonesia’s armed forces, which are facing growing public scrutiny over their expanding role in civilian affairs.