Is Prabowo building a system, not just a program? | Republika Online

A commentary in Republika questions the current political discourse in Indonesia, suggesting that the focus on individual government programs, such as the proposed "Free Nutritious Meals" (MBG), distracts from a more fundamental issue: the economic system itself. Muhammad Solihin Sahal, an economic researcher and opinion writer, argues that politicians and the public are too engrossed in debating the merits of specific initiatives.

Sahal posits that Prabowo Subianto, the current frontrunner, may not be focused on building a collection of programs but rather on establishing a comprehensive economic system. This perspective implies a strategic, long-term vision that transcends the immediate appeal of popular policies. The commentary urges a shift in focus from the "what" of government action to the "how" and "why" – the underlying structures that shape economic outcomes.

The author contends that a deep understanding and critical evaluation of the economic system are paramount. Debating individual programs, while seemingly practical, fails to address the root causes of economic challenges or opportunities. Sahal's analysis suggests that true progress lies in reforming or reinforcing the foundational economic architecture, rather than merely tweaking its surface-level manifestations. This approach calls for a more sophisticated and systemic analysis of governance and development in Indonesia.