No One Left Behind in Indonesia?

Abstract

Indonesia is maintaining economic growth at 5% per annum, with the country holding the mantle of the world’s most stable economic growth since 2002. However, trade flows contracted in the first half of 2019, and ongoing international trade frictions have created a challenging external environment. Inflation remains within the target range, and Bank Indonesia has, like other central banks, moved to cut interest rates. Urban air pollution is an increasingly prominent issue, with Jakarta’s air quality index frequently reaching unhealthy levels in mid-2019. President Joko Widodo has announced an intention for the government to build a new national capital city in East Kalimantan, a plan that would involve substantial costs if it were to go ahead.The president has used the phrase ‘No one left behind’ in prioritising inclusivity in the development process in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We review Indonesia’s considerable progress in broadening residential access to modern energy, developing the case for a new ‘beyond electrification’ agenda and renewed efforts in improving access to clean cooking. We also focus on the status of three groups with members who face marginalisation from full participation in society: the disabled, the elderly and the unemployed. Steps are being taken to establish and broaden targeted assistance for members of each of these groups. Nevertheless, there is a long way to go in reducing the extent to which marginalised members of society are left behind.