Anies Baswedan Seeks to Address Inequality in Indonesian Society
- VIVA/M Ali Wafa
Jakarta – Presidential Candidate Number 1, Anies Baswedan stated that if he elected, he will address the current issues of inequality, injustice, and disparity in Indonesia.
According to Anies, tens of millions of Indonesians are still struggling to secure decent employment.
"Around 45 million people are not employed adequately, with over 70 million lacking social security. Moreover, those in remote areas far from cities have limited opportunities for proper education," said Anies during the fifth presidential debate at JCC Senayan on Sunday.
In addition, Anies highlighted that 15 million people have fallen victim to mental and sexual violence, stating that this is a problem often neglected by the elite.
He stressed that it should be a concern for the broader society.
Anies also highlighted various inequalities, such as the divide between Jakarta and non-Jakarta regions, Java and non-Java regions, general education and religious education, as well as vocational and technical education.
"All of these are disparities that pose a dangerous phenomenon for our republic today," he remarked.
Furthermore, Anies criticized the economic landscape, where a small group of individuals dominates a significant portion of Indonesia's economy.
He reminded that when the republic was founded in the 1960s under
, the educated and privileged individuals envisioned it for the benefit of everyone.
"However, they established the republic not for their own interests, class, or family but for everyone. The power was built to provide opportunities for all. Now, we are far from those aspirations," he concluded.
The final debate in the 2024 Presidential Election focuses on social welfare, culture, education, information technology, health, employment, human resources, and inclusion issues.