disorder and the 'preman state'
This article explores the historical and contemporary influence of 'preman' (thug/gangster) groups in Indonesian politics. It specifically examines the GRIB Jaya organization and its leader's ties to President Prabowo, highlighting systemic issues of state-sanctioned disorder.
Why it matters
Understanding the intersection of criminal networks and state power is crucial for analyzing the stability and democratic health of Southeast Asia's largest economy.
United Indonesian People’s Movement (Gerakan Rakyat Indonesia Bersatu Jaya, GRIB Jaya) leader Hercules Rosario Marcal at the office of Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, in a photo posted by the Cabinet Secretary’s Instagram account on 27 March 2026. Photo from instagram.com/teddy_hq
Indonesian modern history is littered with stories of shadowy figures, underworld groups, militia, and criminal gangs, commonly known as preman . For its co-option and adoption of the activities and characteristics of these groups, scholars described the New Order period of Suharto’s authoritarian regime as the ‘preman state’.
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