Jakarta — President-elect Prabowo Subianto has expressed his determination to address the concerns of Indonesian judges who have not seen a salary increase in over 12 years. This commitment was made during a phone conversation with the Deputy Speaker of the DPR, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, during an audience between the Indonesian Judges’ Solidarity group and DPR leadership in Senayan on Tuesday (October 8).

“Professor Dasco informed me about the meeting between the representatives of the judges and the DPR leadership. I have long held a deep concern for the judges. I believe that our judiciary must be strong. You can check my previous statements and writings. I have always been of the opinion that the quality of life for judges needs to be improved and guaranteed so that they can remain independent and perform their duties with the utmost integrity,” Prabowo said.

Prabowo urged the judges to be patient, assuring them that he would prioritize improving their welfare once he officially takes office on October 20, 2024.

“This has been my plan for a long time—to improve the remuneration of judges so that it becomes significantly better. This is not a campaign promise, as the campaign is over. I just ask the judges to be patient for a little longer. Once I take on the leadership role and receive the mandate, I will immediately focus on addressing the judges’ welfare,” Prabowo emphasized.

The Indonesian Judges Association had approached the DPR leadership to express their concerns over stagnant salaries, which have not increased in 12 years. They shared that their current earnings are insufficient to support their families.

For newly appointed judges, their net income amounts to approximately Rp 12 million, consisting of a base salary of Rp 3.5 million and an allowance of Rp 8.5 million.

“Our salary now is like the pocket money of Rafathar for three days,” said Rangga, a representative of the judges, referring to the child of celebrity Raffi Ahmad. “Meanwhile, we have to support our families, children, and parents.”

Rangga also mentioned that the Rp 12 million salary, given the responsibilities that judges bear, is inadequate to meet their family’s needs.

Prabowo’s commitment to addressing these issues was met with relief and appreciation from the judges, as they eagerly await positive changes under his leadership. (RR)