ERA 1980-1990 Indonesia did not have many thinkers who focused on the problems of Indonesian political economy. Faisal Basri became one of the young economists who dared to enter the area at that time.
At a time when many thinkers did not dare to speak out, Faisal Basri often spoke out loudly about the rottenness of the Soeharto government at that time. Corruption, cronyism, and rent-seeking economy flourished and were rife at that time.
“At that time, not many people dared to accuse Soeharto directly in an open discussion. Faisal was an exception. Not only was he angry and brave, but Faisal was an economist who read data well. His thinking was brilliant. His views were fresh,” recalled senior economist Chatib Basri as quoted on Thursday (5/9).
Faisal Basri is like a lantern of change. In his hands, said Chatib, democracy finds partners and injustice finds enemies. Through his thoughts, Faisal Basri dares to voice injustice and push the powerless rulers to be arbitrary.
“Democracy is indeed noisy, perhaps annoying. But it can restrain human tendencies to act arbitrarily. Faisal voiced that old message,” explained Chatib.
“He reminded power not to be arbitrary. He was like a lantern for change. In his hands, the side of democracy found its voice, and injustice found its enemy,” he added.
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Faisal Basri’s memory is also clearly recorded in the memory of Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati. She, who was a colleague since the Faculty of Economics, University of Indonesia (now the Faculty of Economics and Business UI) worked together as a researcher at the Macroeconomic Research Institute (LPEM) UI.
Faisal Basri and Sri Mulyani became administrators at LPEM UI. Both also continued their careers together as staff of the minister of economy in the Gus Dur era.
“Bang Faisal and I were appointed to be staff members of Mr. Widjojo Nitisastro and Mr. Ali Wardhana who were requested by President Gus Dur as Presidential Economic Advisors – especially in the Paris Club and IMF Program negotiation process,” said Sri Mulyani.
“Bang Faisal is always very passionate about working and speaking from the heart, because of his extraordinary love for Indonesia. Bang Faisal wants Indonesia to progress and be free from corruption, and is always moved to fight when he sees injustice. Bang Faisal’s thoughts, roles and positions never change, consistent, honest, firm, and works wholeheartedly,” he added. (N-2)
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The Legacy of Faisal Basri: A Beacon of Change in Indonesian Politics and Economy
In the 1980s and 1990s, Indonesia was plagued by corruption, cronyism, and a rent-seeking economy, which stifled the country’s growth and development. Amidst this chaos, a young economist named Faisal Basri dared to challenge the status quo and speak out against the injustices of the Soeharto government. His bravery and brilliance made him a shining star in the Indonesian political economy scene, earning him the nickname “lantern of change.”
A Fearless Critic of the Soeharto Government
Faisal Basri’s unwavering commitment to democracy and justice led him to criticize the Soeharto government’s corrupt practices openly, which was a rare feat during that time. According to senior economist Chatib Basri, Faisal Basri was an exception among thinkers who dared to accuse Soeharto directly in open discussions.
“Faisal was an economist who read data well. His thinking was brilliant. His views were fresh,” Chatib Basri recalled. “At that time, not many people dared to accuse Soeharto directly in an open discussion. Faisal was an exception.”
A Champion of Democracy and Justice
Faisal Basri’s contribution to Indonesian politics and economy extended beyond his critiques of the Soeharto government. He was a champion of democracy and justice, who believed that power should not be arbitrary and that the voiceless needed representation.
“Democracy is indeed noisy, perhaps annoying. But it can restrain human tendencies to act arbitrarily. Faisal voiced that old message,” Chatib Basri explained. “He reminded power not to be arbitrary. He was like a lantern for change. In his hands, the side of democracy found its voice, and injustice found its enemy.”
Collaboration with Sri Mulyani Indrawati
Faisal Basri’s legacy is also closely tied to his collaboration with Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati, who was his colleague at the Faculty of Economics, University of Indonesia (now the Faculty of Economics and Business UI). They worked together as researchers at the Macroeconomic Research Institute (LPEM) UI and later became administrators at the same institution.
“Bang Faisal and I were appointed to be staff members of Mr. Widjojo Nitisastro and Mr. Ali Wardhana,” Sri Mulyani Indrawati recalled. “We were also part of the team that helped prepare the economic reform package during the Gus Dur era.”
A Lasting Impact on Indonesian Politics and Economy
Faisal Basri’s courageous stance against corruption and his commitment to democracy and justice have left an indelible mark on Indonesian politics and economy. His legacy continues to inspire a new generation of thinkers and leaders who are dedicated to creating a more just and equitable society.
Faisal Basri’s remarkable story serves as a beacon of hope for a brighter future in Indonesia. His unwavering commitment to democracy, justice, and human rights has made him a hero to many, and his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate Indonesians to work towards a better tomorrow.
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