Between the interests of the oligarchy and the impact on the common people

Public policy regarding the National Strategic Project (NSP) has returned to public attention after the emergence of a controversy regarding the case of the bamboo marine fence in the Pantai Indah Kapuk II (PIK II) area. This question not only raises big question marks about the government's bias towards the people, but also opens a debate about the dominance of oligarchs in state politics.

This article attempts to explore the facts and examine various points of view in accordance with the principles of journalism: verification, accuracy and balance.

The start of the controversy: the Jokowi-Aguan exchange

This case began with allegations that the exchange policy between President Joko Widodo's government and businessman Aguan paved the way for the development of PIK II through the PSN. The PSN is actually designed to accelerate infrastructure development in the public interest, but during its implementation, criticism has emerged that the policy benefits certain groups more.

This allegation is reinforced by the fact that the construction of PIK II, including the Nusantara Hotel, made use of state-owned bank credit facilities. As a project relying on public funds, its implementation must be transparent and accountable.

“If Said Didu does not make this issue viral, perhaps the public will not know the details of the behind-the-scenes deal between Jokowi and Aguan,” said a public policy observer.

Little people involved

One of the most disadvantaged parties in this matter is the community of Kohod area. Local residents face the impact of evictions and access restrictions that would result from the expansion of PIK II. This raises the question: is the development of the PSN really in favor of the people, or is it simply an enrichment for the oligarchy?

“We can only accept our fate here. The marine bamboos supposed to protect our beaches are being dismantled without a clear solution,” complained a resident of Kohod who wished to remain anonymous.

The role of ministers and KSAL in political dynamics

This controversy also led to the names of the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) Sakti Wahyu Trenggono and the Chief of Naval Staff (KSAL). Initially, the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries postponed the dismantling of the sea barrier, but eventually agreed to continue after being summoned by President Jokowi. This attitude which seems to support the promoter has given rise to speculation on the existence of pressures or certain interests.

“It is clear that the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries sides with Aguan. What is behind this decision?” said an environmental activist.

Meanwhile, the Indonesian Navy's involvement in dismantling the bamboo marine fence has also drawn criticism. As an institution trained to maintain national defense, the deployment of the TNI in this case is considered a form of deviation from its main missions.

The public is becoming more and more courageous to fight against the oligarchy

One of the positive impacts of this affair is the renewed courage of the public to denounce oligarchic domination. This controversy has opened a “Pandora’s box” which reveals various practices that have remained tightly closed.

However, this courage must also be balanced with concrete facts and evidence so that it does not turn into just a wild opinion. For example, the government must openly explain the legal basis and benefits of the PIK II project, as well as provide fair compensation to affected communities.

Building equitable governance

This case highlights the importance of transparent, accountable government governance that supports the interests of the population. In the digital age, viral information can be a tool of social control, but it must also be accompanied by verification so as not to cause erroneous perceptions.

The government must take serious steps to fill this gap. For example, ensuring that national strategic projects do not just benefit a few groups but actually bring real benefits to the community as a whole.

Conclusion

The controversy over bamboo marine fencing at PIK II is not just an infrastructure project issue. It is an illustration of how public policy can become an arena of struggle between the interests of the people and the power of the oligarchy. If the government is serious about building a fair and equitable nation, transparency and taking the side of small communities must be a top priority.

Ultimately, this matter is not just about Jokowi or Aguan, but also about the future of national governance. Will we continue to let the oligarchs dominate or move towards a truly democratic and just government?