This person, at first glance, is pragmatic — not at all philosophical or ideological in his policies. But toward his third year in office, he issued a very ideological economic policy: ekonomi berkeadilan (economic justice policies). If this gets implemented well, it would be the birth of Jokowinomics.

In terms of economic policy, President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo took a very different approach than his predecessors. He took a very pragmatic approach in making policies, often with neither academic studies nor public consultations.

When he came to office two and half years ago, he immediately made big cuts in the burdensome fuel subsidies, a very sensitive decision politically, and yet he managed to survive the policy as global fuel prices were falling in tandem.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official stance of The Jakarta Post.