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| Prabowo Subianto Announces Massive 280% Salary Increase for Judges in Indonesia to Improve Legal System Integrity. |
In a bold move that immediately grabbed national attention, Indonesia’s newly inaugurated President, Prabowo Subianto, has announced a significant salary increase for judges across the country. Speaking at the Inauguration Ceremony of the Supreme Court Judges of the Republic of Indonesia on Thursday, June 12, 2025, in Jakarta, President Prabowo revealed that judge salaries will see a raise—with some reaching up to 280%.
This landmark decision marks one of the first major reforms under Prabowo’s administration and signals a strong intent to improve the welfare of legal professionals who have long worked under challenging conditions.
Junior Judges to Receive the Highest Salary Boost
During his speech, President Prabowo emphasized that the largest percentage increase—up to 280%—would go to judges in the lowest or most junior ranks. These are typically new judges or those early in their careers, many of whom have faced financial hardships while upholding the law.
“The group receiving the highest raise is the most junior, the entry-level judges. But I assure you, every judge across all ranks will receive a significant increase. And I will personally monitor the progress,” Prabowo stated.
This initiative not only acknowledges the vital role judges play in Indonesia’s legal system but also aims to attract new talent into the judiciary by making it a more sustainable and respected career path.
Judges Have Waited Nearly Two Decades for a Raise
Prabowo's announcement came after he received a report that most Indonesian judges have not seen any salary adjustment in the last 18 years. That’s nearly two decades of stagnant wages in a high-pressure job that demands impartiality, discipline, and deep moral integrity.
“I’ve been informed that some judges are still working under contract status. Some don’t even have official housing,” said Prabowo. “We're organizing housing issues now, and we hope to launch a large-scale residential construction program for our judges very soon.”
This long period without adequate compensation has not only affected the morale of legal workers but also raised questions about the ability of the legal system to uphold justice in a consistent and corruption-free manner.
Government Plans Large-Scale Housing Support for Judges
In addition to the salary increase, Prabowo also promised better housing infrastructure for judges. A comprehensive residential development project is expected to roll out soon, ensuring that judges—especially those stationed in remote or underdeveloped areas—have access to decent government-provided housing.
By addressing both income and housing, Prabowo's administration is tackling two major pain points that have affected Indonesia’s judicial system for years. The goal is to create a more balanced and fair working environment where judges can focus on legal matters rather than daily survival.
Why Raising Judges' Salaries Matters So Much
Some people might ask: why such a big deal over judges’ pay?
The answer is simple but powerful. Ensuring the well-being of those who uphold the law is one of the most effective ways to fight corruption and build trust in the legal system. Judges with poor living conditions or low income are far more vulnerable to external pressure, conflicts of interest, or even bribery.
With higher salaries, judges are more likely to stay focused on their ethical obligations and make rulings that truly reflect justice—not pressure from outside influences. It also sends a clear message to the public that the government is serious about building a strong, clean, and independent judiciary.
Public and Legal Professionals Welcome the Announcement
Since the announcement, reactions from legal experts, academics, and everyday citizens have been overwhelmingly positive. Social media platforms were flooded with praise, with many people saying this was a “long overdue” step toward meaningful reform.
Some legal institutions called it a “turning point” in restoring dignity to the legal profession in Indonesia. Others pointed out that this will also help rebuild public confidence in court systems, especially in high-profile or politically sensitive cases.
“With better salaries, judges can do their jobs without fear or favor,” said a senior legal analyst at a Jakarta university. “This is the foundation of legal integrity.”
Challenges in Implementation Still Exist
While the plan is promising, implementing such a major change comes with its own set of challenges. These include:
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Ensuring fair and timely distribution of the salary increase
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Avoiding bureaucratic delays or mismanagement
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Monitoring the impact of the salary hike on legal performance and behavior
However, President Prabowo has publicly committed to personally overseeing the process, which is rare for a head of state and reflects how serious he is about seeing this reform through.
Could This Spark Broader Legal Reform in Indonesia?
Many observers believe this move could be the beginning of something bigger. Beyond salary and housing improvements, the government could soon push for:
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Better training programs for judges and legal staff
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Improved technology in courts (e-filing, case tracking, etc.)
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Tighter regulations to ensure transparency and accountability
If all of this comes together, Indonesia’s judicial system could soon stand as a model for reform in Southeast Asia—something the country sorely needs after years of criticism around legal delays and questionable verdicts.
A New Chapter for Indonesia’s Legal System
With a massive 280% salary raise for some judges, and broader support programs in the pipeline, President Prabowo Subianto is making it clear that his administration is committed to building a clean and fair legal system.
This isn’t just about giving judges a raise. It’s about respecting their role, safeguarding their integrity, and restoring faith in the institutions that hold society together.
For a nation as vast and diverse as Indonesia, a strong legal system is essential. And by starting with the people at the heart of that system—the judges—this could be the first real step toward long-term justice reform.
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