10 Politikus Indonesia Paling Terkenal Dan Berpengaruh

Oct 23, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 55 views

Indonesia has seen many influential figures in its political landscape. These politikus indonesia terkenal have shaped the nation through their policies, leadership, and dedication to public service. Let's dive into the lives and careers of some of the most prominent Indonesian politicians who have left a lasting impact on the country.

1. Soekarno

Soekarno, often referred to as Bung Karno, was the first President of Indonesia and one of the nation's founding fathers. His leadership during the Indonesian National Revolution was pivotal in achieving independence from Dutch colonial rule. Soekarno's charisma and powerful speeches rallied the Indonesian people, fostering a sense of national unity and pride. His vision of a unified, independent, and prosperous Indonesia resonated deeply with the masses.

As president, Soekarno implemented policies aimed at nation-building and asserting Indonesia's role on the global stage. He introduced the concept of Pancasila, the five principles that serve as the philosophical foundation of the Indonesian state. These principles—Belief in One Almighty God, Just and Civilized Humanity, the Unity of Indonesia, Democracy Guided by the Inner Wisdom in Deliberations Amongst Representatives, and Social Justice for All Indonesians—were intended to guide the nation towards a harmonious and equitable society. His efforts to unite diverse ethnic and cultural groups under a single national identity were significant, though not without challenges.

Soekarno's foreign policy focused on promoting solidarity among newly independent nations. He was a key figure in the Non-Aligned Movement, which sought to provide an alternative to the Cold War power blocs. His leadership in organizing the Asia-Africa Conference in Bandung in 1955 was a landmark event, bringing together leaders from across the developing world to discuss common challenges and promote cooperation. This conference laid the groundwork for future South-South cooperation and solidified Soekarno's reputation as a global statesman. Despite his many achievements, Soekarno's later years in power were marked by political instability and economic difficulties. However, his legacy as the father of Indonesian independence remains firmly intact, and he is revered as one of the country's greatest leaders. His contributions to national identity, political philosophy, and international relations continue to shape Indonesia today.

2. Soeharto

Soeharto was the second President of Indonesia, holding office for over three decades. His rise to power followed a period of political turmoil in the mid-1960s. Soeharto's New Order regime brought about significant economic development and stability to Indonesia. His policies focused on foreign investment, industrialization, and agricultural modernization, leading to substantial economic growth during his early years in power.

Under Soeharto's leadership, Indonesia experienced a period of rapid economic transformation. His government implemented policies that encouraged foreign investment and promoted export-oriented industries. This led to the growth of manufacturing and service sectors, creating jobs and increasing the country's GDP. The agricultural sector also saw significant improvements through the introduction of new technologies and farming techniques. These economic gains improved the living standards for many Indonesians, contributing to his initial popularity.

However, Soeharto's rule was also marked by authoritarianism and corruption. His government suppressed political dissent and restricted freedom of expression. Critics of the regime faced persecution, and many were imprisoned or exiled. The concentration of power in the hands of the president and his inner circle led to widespread corruption and cronyism. These practices undermined the country's economic development and created deep social inequalities. Despite the economic progress, the lack of political freedoms and the prevalence of corruption fueled growing discontent among the population.

The Asian financial crisis of 1997-98 exposed the vulnerabilities of the Indonesian economy and triggered widespread protests against Soeharto's rule. The crisis led to a sharp decline in the value of the Indonesian rupiah, causing businesses to collapse and unemployment to rise. Public anger over the economic hardship and the government's perceived inaction reached a boiling point. In May 1998, after weeks of student-led demonstrations and escalating violence, Soeharto resigned from office, marking the end of his long and controversial presidency. His legacy remains a subject of debate, with some acknowledging his contributions to economic development while others condemn his authoritarian rule and the corruption that plagued his regime.

3. Megawati Soekarnoputri

Megawati Soekarnoputri, the daughter of Soekarno, served as the fifth President of Indonesia. Her presidency was a significant moment in Indonesian history, as she was the country's first female president. Megawati's political career has been marked by her commitment to upholding her father's legacy and promoting national unity. Her leadership style is often described as calm and measured, emphasizing consensus-building and stability.

Megawati entered politics in the late 1980s, during a period of increasing political openness in Indonesia. She quickly rose through the ranks of the Indonesian Democratic Party (PDI), becoming a symbol of opposition to the Soeharto regime. Her popularity grew as she championed the rights of ordinary Indonesians and called for greater democracy. In the 1990s, she led a faction of the PDI that challenged the government's control over the party, leading to a split and the formation of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P). Her role in the pro-democracy movement solidified her position as a leading political figure.

As president, Megawati focused on stabilizing the Indonesian economy and strengthening democratic institutions. Her administration implemented policies aimed at attracting foreign investment and reducing the country's debt burden. She also oversaw efforts to decentralize government and promote regional autonomy. Megawati's presidency was characterized by a commitment to maintaining national unity in the face of separatist movements and regional tensions. She also played a key role in combating terrorism and promoting regional security.

Despite her efforts, Megawati's presidency faced numerous challenges, including economic instability, political infighting, and terrorist attacks. Her administration was criticized for being slow to address these issues and for lacking a clear vision for the country's future. In the 2004 presidential election, she was defeated by Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, ending her term in office. However, she remains an influential figure in Indonesian politics, continuing to lead the PDI-P and advocate for her political agenda. Her legacy as Indonesia's first female president and her contributions to the country's democratic transition are widely recognized.

4. Abdurrahman Wahid

Abdurrahman Wahid, also known as Gus Dur, was the fourth President of Indonesia. He was a prominent Islamic scholar and intellectual, known for his progressive views and commitment to pluralism. Gus Dur's presidency was marked by his efforts to promote democracy, human rights, and religious tolerance in Indonesia.

Gus Dur came from a prominent religious family and was deeply involved in Islamic organizations throughout his life. He served as the chairman of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), the largest Islamic organization in Indonesia, for many years. His leadership of NU was characterized by his advocacy for moderate Islam and his commitment to social justice. He played a key role in promoting interfaith dialogue and combating religious extremism. His intellectual depth and his ability to bridge different perspectives earned him respect from people of all backgrounds.

As president, Gus Dur implemented policies aimed at promoting democracy and human rights. He lifted restrictions on freedom of expression and allowed greater political participation. He also took steps to address past human rights abuses and promote reconciliation. Gus Dur was a strong advocate for religious tolerance and worked to protect the rights of minority groups. His commitment to pluralism and his efforts to promote understanding between different religious communities were widely praised.

However, Gus Dur's presidency was short-lived and controversial. His unconventional style and his tendency to make impromptu decisions led to conflicts with the legislature and other political actors. He was impeached by the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) in 2001, after less than two years in office. Despite his brief tenure, Gus Dur left a lasting impact on Indonesian politics. His commitment to democracy, human rights, and religious tolerance continues to inspire many Indonesians. His legacy as a progressive Islamic leader and a champion of pluralism is widely recognized.

5. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono

Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, often referred to as SBY, served as the sixth President of Indonesia for two terms. His presidency was characterized by his focus on economic development, anti-corruption efforts, and maintaining political stability. SBY's background as a military officer and his calm demeanor earned him a reputation as a steady and reliable leader.

SBY had a distinguished career in the Indonesian military before entering politics. He rose through the ranks to become a general and held various high-level positions in the government. His experience in the military gave him a strong understanding of national security issues and crisis management. He also gained valuable experience in dealing with complex political situations. His transition from the military to politics was marked by his commitment to democracy and his desire to serve the nation in a new capacity.

As president, SBY implemented policies aimed at promoting economic growth and reducing poverty. His administration focused on attracting foreign investment, improving infrastructure, and strengthening the social safety net. He also launched a number of anti-corruption initiatives and worked to improve governance. SBY's efforts led to significant economic progress and improved living standards for many Indonesians. His leadership was praised for its stability and its focus on long-term development.

SBY also played a key role in promoting regional cooperation and international diplomacy. He worked to strengthen Indonesia's relationships with neighboring countries and played an active role in ASEAN. He also took a leading role in addressing global challenges such as climate change and terrorism. SBY's presidency was marked by his commitment to democracy and his efforts to promote peace and stability in the region. His legacy as a modern and effective leader is widely recognized.

6. Joko Widodo

Joko Widodo, popularly known as Jokowi, is the current President of Indonesia. His rise to the presidency from humble beginnings as a furniture businessman and mayor of Solo is a remarkable story of Indonesian democracy. Jokowi's policies focus on infrastructure development, bureaucratic reform, and improving social welfare.

Before entering politics, Jokowi was a successful businessman in the furniture industry. His hands-on approach and his ability to connect with ordinary people earned him a reputation as a down-to-earth and effective leader. He entered politics as the mayor of Solo and quickly gained popularity for his innovative policies and his commitment to good governance. His success in Solo led to his election as the Governor of Jakarta, where he continued to implement reforms and address the city's challenges. His rise to the presidency was driven by his popularity and his image as a clean and competent leader.

As president, Jokowi has prioritized infrastructure development as a key driver of economic growth. His administration has launched ambitious projects to build roads, railways, ports, and airports across the country. These projects are aimed at improving connectivity, reducing transportation costs, and attracting investment. Jokowi has also focused on bureaucratic reform, seeking to streamline government processes and reduce corruption. He has implemented measures to improve transparency and accountability in government. His efforts to improve social welfare include programs to provide healthcare, education, and social assistance to vulnerable populations.

Jokowi's presidency has been marked by his focus on inclusive development and his commitment to addressing the needs of ordinary Indonesians. He has traveled extensively throughout the country, meeting with people from all walks of life and listening to their concerns. His hands-on approach and his ability to connect with ordinary people have made him a popular and effective leader. His vision for Indonesia is one of a modern, prosperous, and equitable society.

7. B.J. Habibie

B.J. Habibie served as the third President of Indonesia in a transitional period following Soeharto's resignation. An accomplished engineer and intellectual, Habibie played a crucial role in initiating democratic reforms and stabilizing the Indonesian economy during a turbulent time.

Habibie had a distinguished career as an engineer before entering politics. He studied aerospace engineering in Germany and worked for several leading companies in the aviation industry. His expertise in technology and his commitment to innovation earned him a reputation as a brilliant scientist. He returned to Indonesia in the 1970s and played a key role in developing the country's aerospace industry. His contributions to technology and his vision for a modern Indonesia led to his appointment as the Minister of Research and Technology.

As president, Habibie implemented significant democratic reforms, including lifting restrictions on freedom of the press and political organizations. He also released political prisoners and initiated investigations into past human rights abuses. His efforts to promote democracy and human rights laid the foundation for a more open and democratic society in Indonesia. He also took steps to stabilize the Indonesian economy, which had been severely affected by the Asian financial crisis. His policies helped to restore confidence in the economy and pave the way for future growth.

Habibie's presidency was short-lived, but his contributions to Indonesia's democratic transition are widely recognized. His commitment to democracy, human rights, and economic stability helped to shape the country's future. His legacy as a visionary leader and a champion of democracy is widely celebrated.

8. Prabowo Subianto

Prabowo Subianto is a prominent political figure in Indonesia, known for his military background and his strong nationalist views. He has been a presidential candidate in multiple elections and is a leading figure in the Gerindra party. Prabowo's policies focus on economic nationalism, strengthening national defense, and promoting Indonesian sovereignty.

Prabowo had a distinguished career in the Indonesian military, rising through the ranks to become a general. His experience in the military gave him a strong understanding of national security issues and crisis management. He entered politics after retiring from the military and quickly became a leading figure in the Gerindra party. His political career has been marked by his strong nationalist views and his commitment to defending Indonesian sovereignty.

Prabowo has been a presidential candidate in multiple elections, challenging the incumbent presidents. His campaigns have focused on economic nationalism, advocating for policies to protect Indonesian industries and promote self-reliance. He has also called for strengthening national defense and modernizing the military. His political message resonates with many Indonesians who are concerned about economic inequality and national security.

Despite his electoral defeats, Prabowo remains an influential figure in Indonesian politics. His Gerindra party is a major political force, and he continues to advocate for his political agenda. His commitment to economic nationalism and his strong leadership have made him a prominent voice in Indonesian politics.

9. Megawati

Megawati Soekarnoputri is another politikus indonesia terkenal. As the daughter of Indonesia's first President, Soekarno, Megawati carries a significant historical legacy. She served as the fifth President of Indonesia, becoming the first female president of the country. Her political career has been marked by her dedication to preserving her father's ideals and promoting national unity.

Megawati's political journey began in the late 1980s when she joined the Indonesian Democratic Party (PDI). She quickly gained popularity for her charisma and her ability to connect with ordinary people. Her rise through the ranks of the PDI was meteoric, and she soon became a symbol of opposition to the Soeharto regime. In the 1990s, she led a faction of the PDI that challenged the government's control over the party, leading to a split and the formation of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P). Her role in the pro-democracy movement solidified her position as a leading political figure.

10. Sri Mulyani Indrawati

Sri Mulyani Indrawati is a highly respected economist and public servant in Indonesia. She has served as the Minister of Finance in both the Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Joko Widodo administrations. Sri Mulyani is known for her expertise in economics, her commitment to good governance, and her efforts to combat corruption.

Sri Mulyani had a distinguished academic career before entering public service. She earned a Ph.D. in economics from the University of Illinois and worked as a researcher and lecturer. Her expertise in economics and her commitment to public service led to her appointment as the Minister of Finance. She quickly gained a reputation for her competence and her integrity. Her policies focused on fiscal discipline, economic reform, and poverty reduction. She played a key role in managing the Indonesian economy during the global financial crisis and implementing reforms to improve governance and combat corruption.

As Minister of Finance, Sri Mulyani has implemented policies aimed at promoting economic stability and sustainable growth. Her administration has focused on fiscal discipline, reducing the budget deficit, and improving tax collection. She has also implemented reforms to improve governance and combat corruption. Her efforts have been widely praised by international organizations and investors. Sri Mulyani is a highly respected figure in Indonesia and is considered one of the country's most capable and effective public servants. Her contributions to economic development and good governance have been invaluable.

These politikus indonesia terkenal have each played a significant role in shaping the nation's history and political landscape. Their contributions, whether through nation-building, economic development, or democratic reform, have left a lasting impact on Indonesia. Understanding their legacies is crucial for anyone seeking to grasp the complexities of Indonesian politics.