Meritocracy That Died at the Hands of "Ordal"

Moving on to the realm of economics and life opportunities, we find another paradox. On paper, Indonesia is a new world economic power. However, for young university graduates who do not have "connections," the world of work feels like an impenetrable fortress. The phenomenon of "ordal" (insiders) has become a structural disease that rots the principle of meritocracy.

Competence and integrity are utterly defeated by "grease money" and personal connections. Access to employment, which should be the right of every citizen according to their competence, has instead become a commodity or a quota for the circle of power. Economic independence for the common people is squeezed between a slow bureaucracy and a culture of nepotism that is considered normal. If someone has to "buy" or "worship" those in power just to get a decent job, isn't that a new form of slavery?

This shackle even extends to the most micro level: the village. The systemic culture of illegal levies (extortion) in basic administrative management is still a daily sight. From KTP (identity card) matters to small business permits, people often still have to "appease" their own officials. This is a betrayal of the ideals of independence that seek to abolish the exploitation of man by another.