The Political Economy of Indonesia’s Economic Development, Volume II

This book offers an in-depth exploration of Indonesia’s political economy from the aftermath of the 1997–98 Asian Financial Crisis to its emergence as a pivotal economic and geopolitical actor in Southeast Asia. It examines how Indonesia navigated structural reforms, decentralization, state-business relations, and shifting development strategies in response to both domestic challenges and global trends. Organized chronologically and thematically, the chapters trace Indonesia’s economic governance through major milestones, including post-Suharto transitions, democratic consolidation, financial liberalization, the rise of state capitalism, and post-2008 global economic transformations. Key themes include political patronage and economic rent-seeking, infrastructure development, environmental and energy policy, technological innovation, and Indonesia’s evolving international economic diplomacy. 

Bridging the disciplines of political science, development economics, and international relations, the book brings together theoretical analysis and empirical evidence to understand how power, institutions, and global forces have shaped Indonesia’s developmental trajectory. It is essential reading for scholars and practitioners interested in emerging markets, economic governance, and Southeast Asian studies.

Dr Sangaralingam Ramesh is a Lecturer in Economics at University College London and a Departmental Lecturer in Political Economy at the University of Oxford. He holds a PhD from SOAS and has published extensively on development, innovation, and governance.