Politik Jatah Preman Ormas dan Kuasa Jalanan di Indonesia Pasca Orde Baru

This book is widely praised for its comprehensive and rigorous research, often highlighted as a groundbreaking study based on extensive field work and interviews. Reviewers commend its ability to provide a deep and nuanced understanding of political violence, street politics, and the complex roles of certain social groups in Indonesia, tracing their long historical roots from the colonial era through the New Order and post-reformasi periods. The author’s analytical prowess is frequently lauded for dissecting intricate relationships, demonstrating how these groups adapt, transform, and establish wide-ranging networks that extend beyond simple patron-client dynamics, influencing both informal street politics and formal parliamentary processes. Many readers found that the book profoundly changed their perspective on these often-marginalized groups, revealing their integral and enduring role in the nation's socio-political fabric.

However, several reviewers note that the book can be a challenging read due to its academic nature, describing it as "heavy," "sprawling," and "weighty." The text is dense with information, occasionally using unfamiliar terminology and referencing numerous prominent figures, which some general readers found difficult to digest, comparing it to reading a research paper. Inconsistent writing styles in the translated version and the perception that some content, while detailed, re-affirmed already known political dynamics were also mentioned. Additionally, while insightful, the book’s primary focus on Jakarta and its surrounding areas left some readers wishing for a broader scope covering other regions of Indonesia. Minor issues like typos were also pointed out.

Despite these challenges, the overwhelming consensus is that this book is an extremely important and insightful contribution, frequently hailed as the most rigorous and essential study on the topic of protection rackets and street politics in Indonesia. It is highly recommended for anyone interested in Indonesian politics, particularly local and bottom-up dynamics, urban studies, migration, and the historical entanglement of non-state actors with governmental power. Readers should approach it prepared for a dense, academic exploration, but those committed to engaging with its depth will gain a profound, often perspective-altering understanding of a complex and frequently misunderstood dimension of Indonesian society and its ongoing relevance to contemporary political events.