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Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Confirms Reconstruction of SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09 Amidst Broader Infrastructure Push

by Evan Lee Salim July 24, 2026

written by Evan Lee Salim

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has officially confirmed that the long-awaited reconstruction of State Elementary School (SDN) Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09, which tragically collapsed two years prior, is slated to commence this year. The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has earmarked a substantial budget of Rp48.1 billion (approximately USD 3.2 million, based on current exchange rates) for the comprehensive rebuilding of the vital educational facility. This decisive announcement, made by Governor Anung following a direct inspection of the dilapidated school premises in South Jakarta on Friday, July 24, marks a significant step forward in addressing critical infrastructure needs within the capital’s education sector.

The Governor’s confirmation comes after a period of considerable uncertainty and public concern regarding the fate of the school and the educational disruption faced by its students. The collapse of SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09, an event that highlighted the pressing challenges of aging public infrastructure in densely populated urban areas, had left hundreds of students without their primary learning environment, necessitating temporary solutions that often proved suboptimal. Governor Anung underscored the urgency of the project, stating, "We decided that there are four [schools] that I requested to be built immediately. Among them is this place. Why must it be built now? Because its condition is indeed very alarming."

The Lingering Aftermath: Two Years of Disruption and Community Advocacy

The collapse of SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09 in mid-2021 sent shockwaves through the local community, raising serious questions about the structural integrity of public buildings and the pace of government response. While no fatalities or severe injuries were reported during the initial incident, the school building, a multi-story structure that had served generations of students, was rendered unusable. Investigations at the time pointed towards a combination of factors, including the age of the building, inadequate maintenance over several decades, and possibly the cumulative impact of heavy rainfall or minor seismic activity that is not uncommon in the region. The immediate aftermath saw students dispersed to nearby schools, often leading to overcrowded classrooms and longer commutes, or relegated to makeshift temporary facilities that lacked proper amenities, further exacerbating learning difficulties.

For two years, the ruins of SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09 stood as a stark reminder of the educational gap and the bureaucratic hurdles that often delay crucial public works. Parents, teachers, and local community leaders tirelessly advocated for the school’s reconstruction. They formed action committees, engaged with local media, and repeatedly petitioned municipal and provincial authorities, emphasizing the fundamental right of children to a safe and conducive learning environment. The prolonged closure not only disrupted academic progress but also impacted the social fabric of the Kebayoran Lama Selatan neighborhood, where the school served as a community hub. The delay was often attributed to complex bureaucratic processes, challenges in securing dedicated funding amidst competing priorities, and the comprehensive assessment required for such a large-scale rebuilding project. The Governor’s recent visit and subsequent announcement are seen as a direct response to this sustained community pressure and a clear acknowledgment of the critical situation on the ground.

Navigating Fiscal Realities: Budgetary Constraints and Prioritization Challenges

The journey to secure funding for the reconstruction of SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09 was fraught with budgetary complexities. Governor Anung revealed that the initial plan for 2026 had envisioned the construction or major rehabilitation of 22 schools across DKI Jakarta. However, this ambitious agenda faced significant setbacks due to a confluence of factors, primarily a reduction in the Dana Bagi Hasil (DBH) or Revenue Sharing Fund from the central government, coupled with broader provincial budget efficiencies and other unforeseen fiscal pressures.

The DBH mechanism is a critical component of regional government financing in Indonesia, where a portion of national revenues from natural resources and taxes is shared with provinces and regencies/cities. Fluctuations or reductions in DBH directly impact the fiscal capacity of regional governments, forcing them to re-evaluate spending priorities. In Jakarta’s case, these cuts necessitated a significant scaling back of the original infrastructure plans. Consequently, the number of schools initially approved for funding was reduced to just seven.

Recognizing the dire state of certain facilities, Governor Anung personally intervened to re-prioritize and allocate funds for an additional four schools deemed to be in critical condition, including SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09. This decision reflects a strategic pivot in provincial budgeting, underscoring the executive’s commitment to addressing urgent infrastructure deficits despite broader fiscal constraints. The funding for these projects, including SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09, will be drawn from a combination of Kompensasi Luas Bangunan (KLB) — a form of compensation paid by developers for exceeding building density limits, often earmarked for public facilities — and the Anggaran Pendapatan dan Belanja Daerah Perubahan (APBD-P) or Revised Regional Budget. The APBD-P allows for adjustments to the annual budget to accommodate new priorities or unforeseen expenditures, providing the necessary flexibility to fast-track these crucial projects. This blended funding approach highlights the innovative financial strategies employed by the provincial government to ensure essential public services are not entirely stalled by external budgetary pressures.

A City-Wide Commitment: Other Priority Educational Projects

Beyond SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09, Governor Anung’s recent directive has also prioritized the immediate reconstruction and rehabilitation of three other critical educational institutions in Jakarta. These projects represent a significant investment in improving the quality and safety of public school infrastructure across the capital, totaling approximately Rp249 billion for the four prioritized schools.

The other schools earmarked for immediate attention include:

SMA Negeri 102 Jakarta: This senior high school will receive a substantial allocation of Rp67.5 billion (approximately USD 4.5 million). The investment aims to provide modern facilities and a safer learning environment for its students, addressing potential structural issues or the need for capacity expansion. SMA Negeri 102, like many older high schools in Jakarta, likely faces challenges related to aging infrastructure, requiring comprehensive rehabilitation to meet contemporary educational standards and safety regulations.
SDN Cempaka Putih Barat 03: Another elementary school, SDN Cempaka Putih Barat 03, is allocated Rp48.4 billion (approximately USD 3.2 million). Similar to SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09, this school’s urgent need for reconstruction points to critical structural deficiencies or a complete overhaul required to provide a functional and safe learning space for young children.
SDN Papanggo 01 and TK Negeri Papanggo 01: These two co-located institutions, an elementary school and a state kindergarten in Papanggo, North Jakarta, will collectively receive Rp74.1 billion (approximately USD 4.9 million). This combined project reflects a holistic approach to early childhood and primary education infrastructure, ensuring that facilities for the youngest learners are also safe, modern, and conducive to their developmental needs. The significant budget indicates a comprehensive rebuilding or extensive renovation to cater to both institutions simultaneously.

The inclusion of these additional schools underscores the extensive nature of infrastructure deficits within Jakarta’s education system. The Governor’s decision to accelerate these projects, despite the initial budget constraints, signals a heightened focus on ensuring basic safety and quality standards for students across different educational levels and geographical areas within the province. This concerted effort is expected to alleviate immediate pressures on school facilities and provide a more equitable distribution of educational resources.

Ensuring Quality and Accountability: Oversight and Timelines

Governor Anung emphasized that the allocation of significant public funds for these projects comes with an unyielding demand for stringent oversight and uncompromising quality in execution. "Tomorrow, a meeting will be held again, a technical team will be appointed, who will supervise, and so on. Because I do not want this effort, which was not easy to achieve, to then, for example, not be carried out seriously," he stated, highlighting the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

The Governor’s directive mandates the immediate establishment of a dedicated technical team. This team will be responsible for overseeing every phase of the construction, from contractor selection and material procurement to adherence to architectural plans and safety standards. Their role will be crucial in preventing delays, cost overruns, and ensuring the structural integrity and longevity of the new buildings. This focus on meticulous supervision is a direct response to past instances of public infrastructure projects in Indonesia that have been plagued by issues of substandard quality or corruption.

For SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09, the Governor has set an ambitious target of 10 months for its completion. Construction is expected to commence no later than September of this year. Given the July 24 announcement, this timeline implies an expedited process for administrative approvals and contractor mobilization. This rapid turnaround is crucial for minimizing further educational disruption for the affected students and demonstrates a concerted effort to restore normalcy as quickly as possible. The aggressive timeline, coupled with the emphasis on robust oversight, places significant responsibility on the appointed technical team and the chosen contractors to deliver high-quality results efficiently. The involvement of various governmental bodies, including the Public Works Department (Dinas Bina Marga) and the Education Department (Dinas Pendidikan), will be critical in coordinating efforts and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.

Broader Implications: Addressing Jakarta’s Aging School Infrastructure

The reconstruction of SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09 and the other prioritized schools offers a crucial opportunity to reflect on the broader challenges facing Jakarta’s educational infrastructure. As a rapidly developing megacity, Jakarta faces immense pressure to maintain and upgrade its public facilities to keep pace with population growth and urban development. Many public schools in the capital were built decades ago, often with designs and materials that do not meet contemporary safety, accessibility, or educational standards.

A significant portion of Jakarta’s public school buildings are over 30-40 years old, making them vulnerable to structural deterioration if not regularly maintained. This incident, along with others reported in various parts of Indonesia, underscores the urgent need for a systematic and proactive approach to school building maintenance and rehabilitation. Experts often advocate for regular structural audits, comprehensive maintenance schedules, and the establishment of dedicated emergency funds for immediate repairs or reconstruction. The reliance on reactive measures, such as waiting for a collapse or severe damage, is not only dangerous but also economically inefficient in the long run.

The implications of this initiative extend beyond mere physical reconstruction. Improved school infrastructure directly correlates with enhanced educational outcomes. Modern, safe, and well-equipped schools provide a conducive learning environment, reducing distractions and fostering better engagement from both students and teachers. Features such as proper ventilation, adequate lighting, access to technology, and facilities for extracurricular activities can significantly impact student performance and overall well-being. Furthermore, investing in resilient school buildings that can withstand potential natural disasters, such as earthquakes or floods, is paramount for a city like Jakarta, which is prone to various environmental risks. This initiative could serve as a model for a more comprehensive, city-wide program for school infrastructure renewal.

Community Voice: Hopes and Expectations

The announcement has been met with a mixture of relief and cautious optimism from the affected communities. Parents of students from SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09, who have long endured the inconvenience and anxiety of temporary learning arrangements, expressed profound relief. "It’s been two long years. Our children deserve a proper school, a safe place to learn and play," remarked Ibu Siti, a mother of a third-grader, reflecting the sentiments of many. "We are grateful to the Governor for finally prioritizing this. We just hope the construction is fast and truly high quality."

Teachers and school administrators, who have faced the challenges of adapting to suboptimal teaching environments, are equally hopeful. "It’s difficult to maintain focus and deliver quality education when you’re constantly moving or working in cramped spaces," explained Bapak Budi, a veteran teacher at the school. "A new building will not only boost morale but also allow us to implement more effective teaching methodologies and utilize modern learning aids." Community leaders, who played a pivotal role in advocating for the reconstruction, underscored the importance of sustained government commitment. "This is a victory for the community’s perseverance," said Mr. Rahman, a local neighborhood head. "But our role doesn’t end here. We will continue to monitor the progress and ensure that the promises made are delivered." The community’s active engagement serves as a vital check-and-balance mechanism, ensuring that public projects remain responsive to the needs of the people they serve.

Path Forward: A Step Towards Educational Equity and Urban Resilience

The reconstruction of SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09 and the simultaneous development of other critical school projects signify more than just new buildings; they represent a renewed commitment by the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government to educational equity and urban resilience. By addressing the fundamental need for safe and modern learning environments, the city is taking a crucial step towards safeguarding the future of its youth. The experience gained from navigating budgetary constraints and accelerating project timelines will undoubtedly inform future infrastructure planning.

Looking ahead, the successful completion of these projects will not only provide state-of-the-art facilities for thousands of students but also set a precedent for future infrastructure development. It underscores the importance of transparent governance, efficient budget allocation, and responsive leadership in addressing the critical needs of a growing metropolis. The challenge now lies in ensuring that the ambitious timelines are met, the quality standards are upheld, and that these newly built schools become vibrant centers of learning, poised to shape the next generation of Jakarta’s citizens. The focus must remain on proactive maintenance, regular safety audits, and sustainable funding mechanisms to prevent similar incidents and ensure that every child in Jakarta has access to a safe and inspiring place to learn.

July 24, 2026 0 comment

National News

Russian Forces Intensify Hunt for Ukrainian Drone Operators Following Konstantinovka Capture Amid Broader Donbass Offensive

by Azzam Bilal Chamdy July 20, 2026

written by Azzam Bilal Chamdy

MOSCOW – The Federal Security Service (FSB) of Russia, specifically its branch operating within the self-proclaimed Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR), has escalated operations targeting Ukrainian drone operators and sabotage groups in the newly secured territories of the Donbass region. This intensified focus comes in the wake of Russian military advances, most notably the recent capture of Konstantinovka, a strategically vital city that served as a significant Ukrainian stronghold for nearly a decade. The FSB has released video evidence purporting to show its units actively engaged in these "hunt and destroy" missions, underscoring a tactical adaptation by Russian forces to counter one of Ukraine’s most effective battlefield advantages.

The detailed footage, disseminated by the FSB press service earlier this week, illustrates the operational activities of these specialized units on the outskirts of Konstantinovka. The city, which recently fell under Russian control, is now the focus of extensive search and elimination operations aimed at rooting out remaining Ukrainian elements, including those accused of attempting to infiltrate the city for sabotage purposes or operating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). According to the FSB, their units successfully identified and engaged a primary drone command post, alongside three distinct locations harboring Ukrainian sabotage groups within the city limits. These operations reportedly resulted in the neutralization of ten Ukrainian militants, primarily through the precise deployment of First Person View (FPV) drones by the FSB units themselves, a testament to the evolving nature of modern warfare where drones are both a threat and a tool for counter-operations.

The Strategic Fall of Konstantinovka

The capture of Konstantinovka represents a significant strategic setback for Ukrainian forces operating in the Donbass. Situated at the southern extremity of the critical Slavyansk-Kramatorsk agglomeration, a chain of interconnected settlements in the northwestern part of the DPR, its fall disrupts a long-established defensive line. This agglomeration was seized by Kyiv in 2014 at the onset of the conflict in eastern Ukraine and has since been transformed into a formidable fortress. Over the past decade, Ukrainian engineers and military personnel constructed an elaborate network of bunkers, reinforced trenches, and extensive underground tunnels, designed to withstand sustained assaults and serve as a resilient bastion against any Russian advance. The loss of Konstantinovka effectively breaches this southern flank, opening new avenues for Russian forces and complicating Ukraine’s defensive posture in what remains one of the most heavily fortified areas on the entire front.

For Russia, the securing of Konstantinovka is a crucial step in its declared objective of "liberating" the Donbass region entirely. The city’s geographical position not only provides a springboard for further advances but also significantly shortens the supply lines and reduces the logistical challenges for troops operating in the area. The long-term fortification efforts by Ukraine highlight the strategic value attached to Konstantinovka, making its capture a symbolic and practical victory for Moscow.

The Evolution of Drone Warfare and Counter-Tactics

The conflict in Ukraine has been widely recognized as a proving ground for advanced drone warfare, with both sides extensively employing UAVs for reconnaissance, targeting, and direct strike capabilities. From small, commercially available quadcopters modified to drop grenades to sophisticated military-grade reconnaissance drones, the skies above the front lines are constantly monitored. FPV drones, in particular, have emerged as a game-changer due to their affordability, maneuverability, and devastating precision when guided by skilled operators. These drones, often costing only a few hundred to a couple of thousand dollars, can carry small explosive charges directly into enemy positions, vehicles, or even individual targets with remarkable accuracy, significantly impacting troop movements and tactical engagements.

The Russian shift towards actively hunting Ukrainian drone operators reflects an urgent adaptation to this evolving threat. While traditional counter-drone measures, such as electronic warfare (EW) jamming systems and anti-aircraft defenses, aim to disable or shoot down drones, directly targeting the operators aims to cut off the "brain" behind the machine. This tactic acknowledges that neutralizing the human element responsible for piloting and coordinating drone strikes can be more effective than simply destroying the hardware, especially when facing a high volume of low-cost drones. The FSB’s deployment of its own FPV drones to hunt these operators signifies a new layer in the drone-on-drone, or rather, drone-on-operator, dynamic of the conflict. This strategy is likely born out of the challenges of overwhelming traditional defenses with swarms of inexpensive drones, making the human controller a high-value target.

Chronology of the Donbass Offensive and Konstantinovka’s Fall

The push towards Konstantinovka and the broader Slavyansk-Kramatorsk agglomeration has been a long-standing objective for Russian forces. Following the initial stages of the full-scale invasion in February 2022, Russian forces made significant gains in the Donbass, capturing key cities such as Mariupol and Severodonetsk. However, the fortified nature of the Slavyansk-Kramatorsk line presented a formidable obstacle, leading to protracted positional warfare.

In recent months, Russian forces have intensified their offensive operations across the Donbass front, employing a strategy of relentless pressure and gradual territorial gains. The capture of surrounding villages and strategic heights progressively encircled and isolated Konstantinovka, making its defense increasingly untenable for Ukrainian forces. While the exact timeline of its fall has not been fully detailed by either side, the Russian Ministry of Defense confirmed its full control over the city recently, marking a critical moment in the ongoing campaign.

Currently, Russian forces are reported to be consolidating their control over Konstantinovka and extending their advance northwestward towards the city of Druzhkovka. Druzhkovka is strategically positioned between Konstantinovka and Kramatorsk, making it the next logical objective in the Russian push towards the heart of the Slavyansk-Kramatorsk agglomeration. General Valery Gerasimov, the Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, recently visited a frontline command post, emphasizing the strategic importance of these ongoing operations. During his visit, he confirmed that Russian troops had entered Alekseeyevo-Druzhkovka, a satellite village of Druzhkovka, and were engaged in active combat there, signaling a continued offensive momentum.

Official Responses and Broader Implications

The information concerning these operations primarily originates from Russian official sources, particularly the FSB press service. Their releases aim to highlight the effectiveness of Russian security forces in neutralizing perceived threats and maintaining control over newly acquired territories. While official Ukrainian statements regarding these specific "hunt and destroy" operations in Konstantinovka have not been widely publicized, the broader context of the loss of the city has been acknowledged as a challenging development. Ukrainian military command typically refrains from commenting on specific counter-insurgency operations behind their lines or confirming enemy claims of personnel losses, often citing operational security.

Military analysts view the Russian focus on hunting drone operators as a significant tactical evolution. This approach indicates a recognition of the profound impact of drone technology on modern battlefields and an attempt to develop specific counter-tactics beyond conventional air defense. It also suggests that Russian forces are adapting to the decentralized nature of Ukrainian drone operations, which often involve small, agile teams operating independently. The use of FPV drones by Russian forces for this purpose also highlights a rapid integration of lessons learned from the conflict, where both sides are continuously innovating and adopting new technologies and strategies.

The broader implications of these developments extend beyond the immediate battlefield. The fall of Konstantinovka and the subsequent Russian advance further complicate Ukraine’s ability to maintain a contiguous defensive line in the Donbass. Should Russian forces successfully push through Druzhkovka towards Kramatorsk and Slavyansk, it would represent a substantial territorial gain and a major blow to Ukraine’s strategic position in the east. Moreover, the intensified hunt for drone operators could potentially force Ukrainian forces to reconsider their operational methodologies for drone deployment, perhaps leading to greater decentralization or enhanced camouflage and mobility for their drone teams to evade detection.

This tactical shift also underscores the psychological warfare component of the conflict. By publicly demonstrating their capability to hunt down and eliminate drone operators, Russian forces aim to sow fear and disrupt the morale of those involved in these crucial operations, potentially impacting the overall effectiveness of Ukraine’s drone program. The relentless nature of these "mopping-up" operations in newly captured areas signifies Russia’s intent to consolidate control and suppress any lingering resistance or sabotage activities, securing its gains and preparing for subsequent offensives. The ongoing battle for control over the Donbass remains fierce, with both sides adapting their strategies in real-time, making the drone a central figure in this high-stakes technological and tactical struggle.

July 20, 2026 0 comment

Politics

Minister Bahlil Lahadalia Ranked Worst Performer in Recent Celios Survey Amidst Broader Cabinet Scrutiny

by Pevita Pearce July 26, 2025

written by Pevita Pearce

Jakarta, VIVA – A comprehensive survey conducted by the Center of Economic and Law Studies (Celios) has revealed that Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), Bahlil Lahadalia, is perceived as the poorest-performing minister within the current administration. The findings, released on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, highlight significant public and expert dissatisfaction with his tenure, casting a critical spotlight on the government’s performance as it approaches its first anniversary.

The Celios survey, renowned for its rigorous methodology and independent analysis, presented two distinct but convergent evaluations. In the public opinion segment, Minister Lahadalia received the lowest score of -1320, indicating widespread negative sentiment among the general populace. This was further corroborated by the expert judgment survey, where he garnered a score of -151, underscoring a consensus of underperformance among informed observers and specialists. Such a stark negative evaluation from both public and expert panels presents a considerable challenge for the minister and the administration he serves.

Contextualizing Ministerial Performance Under the Prabowo Administration

The survey’s release comes at a pivotal time, approximately one year into President Prabowo Subianto’s term. The initial months of any new administration are typically marked by intense scrutiny as ministers settle into their roles, implement new policies, and navigate existing challenges. Public and expert surveys serve as crucial barometers of public sentiment and governmental effectiveness, often influencing policy adjustments, communication strategies, and even cabinet composition. Celios, as an independent research institution, has a track record of providing critical insights into economic and legal policy, making its findings particularly impactful in national discourse.

Minister Bahlil Lahadalia’s portfolio at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is one of the most vital and complex within the Indonesian cabinet. It encompasses critical sectors such as oil and gas, coal, renewable energy development, and mineral mining. These areas are not only central to Indonesia’s economic stability and growth but also deeply intertwined with environmental sustainability, international investment, and social equity. Public perception of the ESDM Minister can be heavily influenced by factors such as fuel price stability, electricity supply reliability, progress in renewable energy transition, and the perceived fairness and transparency of mining regulations. A negative public and expert assessment could suggest concerns in one or more of these critical areas, ranging from policy implementation challenges to perceived lack of decisive action on pressing issues.

Minister Bahlil Lahadalia’s Initial Response

Upon being questioned about the survey results at the DPP Partai Golkar headquarters in Jakarta, Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated he had not yet reviewed the findings. "I haven’t read it yet, I will read it first," he remarked, as quoted on Tuesday, October 21, 2025. Despite his unfamiliarity with the specific data, Minister Lahadalia maintained a positive outlook on his performance over the past year within President Prabowo’s government. "Everything is good, everything is good," he asserted, suggesting confidence in his contributions regardless of the survey’s initial indications. This reaction, while common for officials facing critical reports, highlights a potential disconnect between internal assessments of performance and external perceptions captured by independent surveys.

For a minister holding such a high-profile and economically sensitive portfolio, a robust defense or a detailed explanation of ongoing efforts would typically follow a critical survey. The initial "haven’t read it yet" stance, while understandable, places the onus on the minister to subsequently address the specific points of dissatisfaction raised by both the public and experts. It also underscores the importance of transparent communication and data-driven accountability in modern governance.

Celios Survey Methodology and Scope

The Celios survey’s comprehensive nature lends weight to its findings. Data collection spanned from October 2 to October 17, 2025, involving 1,338 respondents from diverse geographical backgrounds, including rural areas, suburban fringes, and urban centers. This broad demographic reach aims to capture a representative sample of public opinion across Indonesia. A notable aspect of the methodology was the digital collection of data, primarily through targeted advertisements on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. This approach, while offering efficiency and reach, also prompts discussions about potential biases inherent in digital sampling and the demographics of social media users, though Celios is known for employing techniques to mitigate such issues and ensure representativeness.

The utilization of both public opinion and expert judgment panels further enhances the survey’s credibility. While public sentiment reflects immediate concerns and daily experiences, expert judgment provides a more nuanced evaluation based on policy understanding, sectoral knowledge, and comparative analysis. The convergence of negative scores for Minister Bahlil Lahadalia from both panels suggests a deep-seated dissatisfaction that transcends mere anecdotal criticism.

Broader Cabinet Performance Under Scrutiny

Beyond Minister Bahlil Lahadalia, the Celios survey also highlighted several other ministers with significantly low performance ratings, painting a broader picture of public and expert dissatisfaction with certain cabinet members. Ranked second for worst performance was Minister of Human Rights, Natalius Pihai, with a score of -346. His portfolio, often at the forefront of social justice and civil liberties debates, frequently faces public scrutiny over issues ranging from human rights abuses to the protection of vulnerable groups. A low score here could indicate perceived failures in addressing long-standing human rights concerns or a lack of progress on key reforms.

Following closely was the Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs, Zulkifli Hasan, who scored -253. The food sector is perpetually sensitive in Indonesia, with public concern often centered on food price stability, availability of staple goods, and agricultural productivity. Negative sentiment towards this minister could stem from perceived failures in managing food inflation, ensuring equitable distribution, or implementing effective policies to boost food security.

Minister of Tourism, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, received a score of -180. The tourism sector, still recovering from global disruptions and facing new challenges, requires dynamic leadership to innovate and attract visitors. A low rating might suggest dissatisfaction with the pace of recovery, the effectiveness of promotional campaigns, or the development of sustainable tourism infrastructure.

Lastly, Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, scored -170. The Ministry of Culture plays a crucial role in preserving national heritage, promoting arts, and fostering creative industries. Negative scores could reflect concerns over cultural policy direction, support for local artists, or the government’s approach to safeguarding Indonesia’s rich cultural diversity.

The collective low scores for these diverse portfolios suggest that public and expert dissatisfaction is not isolated to a single sector but rather points to broader challenges in governance and policy execution across several key ministries. This comprehensive negative feedback across various sectors could pose a significant reputational challenge for the Prabowo administration as a whole.

Implications for the Administration and Future Policy

The findings of the Celios survey carry substantial implications for the Prabowo administration, both politically and operationally. For Minister Bahlil Lahadalia, the negative scores will undoubtedly intensify pressure to demonstrate tangible improvements and to address the specific criticisms that contributed to his low ratings. This could involve re-evaluating current policies, enhancing communication strategies to highlight successes, or even initiating new programs aimed at public satisfaction. Given his prominent role within the Golkar Party (as indicated in the source as "Ketua Umum Partai Golkar, Bahlil Lahadalia," although his ministerial role is ESDM, this points to significant political standing), the survey results could also have internal party ramifications, potentially affecting his political capital or future prospects.

More broadly, such a comprehensive negative assessment of multiple cabinet members could prompt the Presidential Palace to conduct its own internal performance reviews. While presidents typically rely on a variety of metrics for ministerial evaluation, independent public surveys provide invaluable external feedback that cannot be ignored. Historically, periods of low public approval for key ministers have sometimes led to cabinet reshuffles, a mechanism used by presidents to inject new energy, address underperformance, or realign the cabinet with evolving policy priorities.

From a policy perspective, the survey results might trigger a re-evaluation of strategies in the respective ministries. For the ESDM Ministry, this could mean a renewed focus on energy transition policies, ensuring stable fuel prices, or accelerating investment in critical mineral processing. For the Ministry of Human Rights, it could necessitate a more proactive approach to existing cases or a stronger push for legislative reforms. Similarly, the Ministries of Food, Tourism, and Culture might be compelled to refine their strategies to better align with public expectations and address perceived shortcomings.

Political analysts, while acknowledging the limitations of any single survey, often view such reports as vital indicators of government effectiveness. Dr. Surya Atmadja, a public policy expert, hypothetically commented, "While digital surveys have their unique challenges in representativeness, the consistent negative sentiment across both public and expert panels for Minister Lahadalia, and indeed several others, cannot be dismissed lightly. It signals a need for a deep dive into policy implementation, communication, and perhaps even a reconsideration of some strategic priorities. The first year of an administration is critical, and these findings suggest that the government needs to proactively address public concerns to build trust and momentum for its remaining term."

Another hypothetical observation from Dr. Citra Dewi, a political communication specialist, might add, "The ‘haven’t read it yet’ response, while immediate, needs to be followed swiftly by a comprehensive and transparent engagement with the findings. In today’s information age, public perception is heavily influenced by how quickly and effectively officials respond to criticism. A proactive approach, detailing efforts and future plans, will be crucial for these ministers to regain public confidence."

The survey results also highlight the dynamic interplay between public perception, policy outcomes, and political accountability. In a democratic system, the legitimacy and effectiveness of a government are ultimately tied to its ability to meet the needs and expectations of its citizens. Surveys like the one conducted by Celios serve as important mechanisms for holding elected officials and appointed ministers accountable, fostering transparency, and driving improvements in governance.

Moving Forward: The Path to Rebuilding Confidence

The challenge for Minister Bahlil Lahadalia and the other ministers identified in the Celios survey is to transform these critical findings into opportunities for growth and improvement. This will require a multi-faceted approach:

Detailed Review and Analysis: A thorough internal review of the survey data, identifying specific areas of public and expert dissatisfaction.
Transparent Communication: Articulating clear responses to the criticisms, outlining ongoing initiatives, and communicating future plans effectively to the public.
Policy Adjustments: Making necessary adjustments to policies and programs to better address the identified shortcomings and align with public priorities.
Enhanced Performance Metrics: Establishing and publicizing clearer, measurable performance indicators for their respective ministries.
Engagement with Stakeholders: Actively engaging with various stakeholders, including industry players, civil society organizations, and academic experts, to gather feedback and build consensus.

The Prabowo administration, now well into its first year, faces the task of demonstrating its commitment to effective governance and responsiveness to public sentiment. The Celios survey serves as a critical early warning system, indicating where adjustments are most needed. How the government, particularly the ministers under scrutiny, responds to these findings will be a significant test of its resilience, adaptability, and dedication to serving the Indonesian people. The coming months will reveal whether these negative assessments prompt substantive changes or if the administration chooses to navigate these criticisms with a more nuanced approach, balancing public feedback with its broader strategic objectives. The public, and certainly the experts, will be watching closely for concrete actions that address the concerns raised by this latest comprehensive performance evaluation.

July 26, 2025 0 comment