Rizal Khadafi
Universitas Muhammadiyah Cirebon

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TRAPPED BY TRADITION: THE IRONY OF CEREMONIAL EXPENDITURES AND POVERTY PERSISTENCE IN INDRAMAYU REGENCY, INDONESIA Subhan; Rizal Khadafi; Agus Rianto
Indonesian Journal of Social Sciences, Policy and Politics Vol. 4 No. 3 (2026): October 2026, Indonesian Journal of Social Sciences, Policy and Politics (IJSSP
Publisher : Yayasan Wayan Marwan Pulungan

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.69745/ijsspp.v4i3.238

Abstract

Indramayu Regency in West Java, Indonesia, persistently records the highest poverty rate in the province. This study posits that a significant yet under-examined factor in this persistence is the profound socio-economic impact of culturally mandated ceremonial expenditures. Practices such as debt-financed weddings (hajatan), funerals (tahlilan), and other life-cycle rituals represent a critical paradox: they are indispensable for maintaining social capital and cultural identity, yet simultaneously erode household economic resilience, creating a self-reinforcing poverty trap. Employing a sequential mixed-method approach, this research first analyzes quantitative household expenditure data to establish the magnitude of ceremonial spending. It then utilizes qualitative insights from in-depth interviews and focusses group discussions to uncover the socio-cultural logics and adaptive strategies employed by communities. The findings reveal that ceremonial costs consume a substantial, non-discretionary portion of household income, often necessitating high-interest debt or asset liquidation. This diversion of resources severely limits investment in education, health, and productive assets, thereby perpetuating intergenerational poverty. The study identifies a critical gap in current poverty policies, which largely overlook these cultural-economic pressures. We conclude that effective intervention requires a culturally integrated policy framework that moves beyond conventional economic aid. Such a framework must support community-led adaptations of ceremonial practices, strengthen financial literacy and inclusive financial services within the cultural context, and leverage existing social capital for economic empowerment. This research contributes to the broader literature on the cultural political economy of development by highlighting how local normative systems can conflict with and undermine macro-level development goals.
THE PRESIDENT AND POLITICAL DYNASTIES: A REFLECTION ON THE FUTURE OF DEMOCRACY IN INDONESIA Subhan; Rizal Khadafi; Agus Irfan
Indonesian Journal of Social Sciences, Policy and Politics Vol. 4 No. 1 (2026): February 2026, Indonesian Journal of Social Sciences, Policy and Politics (IJSS
Publisher : Yayasan Wayan Marwan Pulungan

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.69745/ijsspp.v4i1.239

Abstract

This paper investigates the rise of Indonesian President Jokowi and the resultant elevation of his family's political influence through qualitative content analysis, case analysis, and policy analysis. With four members of his immediate family now holding significant positions - Mayor, Party Chairman, Constitutional Court Judge, and Vice President-Elect - Jokowi's ascent has solidified his family's prominence in Indonesian politics. This success can be attributed to Jokowi's substantial public appeal, effective personal branding, and robust infrastructure and party alliance backing. These factors are further compounded by his incumbent status, a fragmented opposition, and a lack of formidable competitors. The study argues that Indonesia's political and electoral system, marked by weak institutions and limited public participation, exacerbates this phenomenon. To safeguard against the perpetuation of political dynasties and fortify democracy, the research proposes comprehensive reforms to Indonesia's political and electoral structure. These include integrating democratic education into the curriculum, establishing checks and balances, decentralizing decision-making, basing leadership selection on performance, and promoting freedom, participation, fairness, honesty, and equality. The goal is to strengthen democratic tenets and practices in Indonesia, ensuring their long-term viability through an educated and engaged population