Jakarta — The Social Progress Index (SPI) reported that Indonesia’s social welfare has seen significant improvements in the past decade under President Joko Widodo’s leadership. The areas showing progress include education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
A report by LSI Denny JA released on September 30 highlighted these advancements, noting that the SPI is essential for assessing how the government enhances the well-being of its citizens beyond just economic indicators.
According to LSI Denny JA, Indonesia’s SPI score rose from 61.65 in 2014 to 67.22 in 2023, with a corresponding improvement in the country’s ranking from 92nd to 80th place. This signifies an improved standard of living despite ongoing challenges.
The report attributed the increase in social welfare to three main factors:
- Access to Education: Programs like the Kartu Indonesia Pintar (Smart Indonesia Card) have boosted educational participation, especially among low-income families.
- Healthcare Services: The National Health Insurance program (JKN) has expanded healthcare access, particularly for marginalized communities, leading to improved public health.
- Social Infrastructure: Investments in infrastructure like roads and public facilities have improved access to essential services, enhancing overall quality of life.
LSI Denny JA also emphasized the significance of SPI as a measure of success:
- Quality of Life Beyond GDP: SPI evaluates non-economic factors such as education, health, and human rights, which are often overlooked by traditional economic indicators, highlighting the importance of well-being beyond GDP.
- Impact of Government Policies: The SPI reflects how government policies, such as healthcare expansion and education improvement, directly impact people’s quality of life.
- Global Comparison: SPI enables comparisons between countries, with Indonesia’s improved ranking indicating alignment with more advanced nations in social welfare.
The report also acknowledged Jokowi’s administration for progress in healthcare, education, and social protection programs like the Program Keluarga Harapan (Family Hope Program), which provides cash assistance to needy families for basic needs.
In conclusion, LSI Denny JA stated that the SPI reflects Jokowi’s success in improving basic needs, expanding education and healthcare access, and creating more economic opportunities.
The report concluded that Jokowi’s 10-year tenure has been successful according to the SPI, while emphasizing the need for continued efforts to achieve equality and social justice throughout Indonesia. (RR)
