Yenny Wahid Says Gus Dur Would Have Taken Action Regarding DPR Salary Increase Controversy If He Were Still Alive

JAKARTA - Yenny Wahid, daughter of the fourth President of the Republic of Indonesia, Abdurrahman Wahid (Gus Dur), believes that if he were still alive and serving as president, Gus Dur would immediately take a stance on the controversy surrounding the salary and allowance increases for members of the House of Representatives (DPR), which has been widely criticized by the public.

"The late Gus Dur was clear, he wouldn't just talk, but take action. Everyone knows what Gus Dur's stance was," Yenny said when met at Jakarta City Hall, Central Jakarta, Friday, August 22.

Yenny recalled Gus Dur's ouster by the DPR because, according to her, the parliament at the time did not support Gus Dur's efforts to eradicate corruption. From this, Yenny assured that Gus Dur's stance would be on the side of the people.

"So, we both know that part of history has been recorded in Gus Dur's position. It's clear that people's representatives truly represent the voice of the people, not prioritize personal interests," Yenny said.

In her view, Yenny urged all officials to exercise greater restraint in wasting state funds on things that don't address the needs of the people amidst the economic hardship.

"So, let's reduce official facilities, but it's much more important to use taxpayer money for the people's needs, for example, subsidizing MSMEs is much more important," she said.

Meanwhile, regarding the Rp 50 million housing allowance for each member of the House of Representatives (DPR), Yenny requested that this be reviewed. Furthermore, members of parliament already have official residences.

"I think just do the math. Almost all DPR members already own a house, right? Even if they don't have one in Jakarta, I don't think the rent should be Rp 50 million? So, perhaps there are existing DPR complexes, why not maximize them?" she explained.