Unpad Professor Criticizes West Java Bureaucracy's Enduring Feudal Culture, Offers Solutions

Asep Sumaryana, a professor at Padjadjaran University's Faculty of Political and Social Sciences (FISIP Unpad), proposes that recruiting leaders based on competence is a key strategy to eradicate feudal culture within the West Java provincial bureaucracy. His remarks come in response to criticism from West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi regarding the prevalence of feudal practices.

Sumaryana explained that feudal culture is intrinsically linked to bureaucratic structures. He stated that if a culture is perceived as feudal, it often indicates that the existing structure supports such practices. The professor highlighted that regional heads hold the highest decision-making authority within their bureaucratic environments, leading subordinates to prioritize pleasing their superiors. This dynamic can foster a fear among employees of displeasing their leaders, thereby perpetuating the feudal system.

He further elaborated that this culture thrives because the selection for strategic positions within the West Java provincial bureaucracy is ultimately determined by the governor. To dismantle this system, Sumaryana stressed the importance of selecting officials based on their qualifications and abilities. He criticized a system where appointments are made based on personal proximity or favors rather than merit, labeling it a form of feudalism.

"Feudalism sidelines competence and prioritizes chemistry," Sumaryana stated, emphasizing that if the goal is to eliminate feudal culture, the selection of high-ranking officials must be competency-based. Otherwise, he warned, networking will consistently overshadow merit. He also advised that when the West Java Governor intends to make a decision, it should first be discussed with other leaders.