Power, Conflict and Democracy Journal
Vol 14 No 1 (2026): PCD Journal Vol. 14 No. 1 2026

Consolidating Wealth and Power

Tika Mardianti Lestari (Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Jenderal Soedirman)



Article Info

Publish Date
22 Jul 2026

Abstract

This study examines how the Basalamah family business was strengthened using political and social strategies. A qualitative method and case study approach was used for data collection, involving observation, in-depth interviews and documentation. Unlike previous business and political studies, this paper considers social capital as well as economic capital. This study complements political economy literature by demonstrating the influence of economic, political and religious identity forces on business and politics at the local level. The political strategy employed involved building a patronage network with local political elites, such as the Regent of Banyumas under the leadership of Joko Sudantoko, Aris Setiono and Mardjoko, and entering the world of practical politics by holding strategic positions in the Banyumas Regency Regional House of Representatives (Regency Council). Both strategies are important because informal connectivity is needed to build relationships with local political elites and to become directly involved in politics (i.e. policy-making) for the sake of business interests. The social strategy employed was to strengthen social networks and reinforce the religious social space through the Al-Irsyad Al-Islamiyyah social foundation in Purwokerto. This social strategy strengthens the bond between economic and political forces in perpetuating their business interests while safeguarding ethnic identity.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

PCD

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Social Sciences

Description

PCD Journal is an initiative to promote works and reports written in high-quality academic standard on the dynamics of power, conflict, and democracy in developing countries, particularly in South and Southeast Asia. Themes on practices of human rights, popular representation, and ...