Nine Dragons (Indonesian: Sembilan Naga) is a term referring to a group of influential businessmen of Chinese descent in Indonesia, especially those who had close ties with the New Order government. This term is often associated with significant economic and political power, although the membership of this group has never been officially confirmed.
History
editThe term "Nine Dragons" emerged during the New Order era, which was characterized by mutually beneficial relationships between businessmen and the government.[1][2] Initially, this term, also known as the 'Gang of Nine', had negative and mysterious connotations.[1][3][4] The group was associated with illicit businesses such as gambling, drugs, and smuggling, and was considered above the law due to strong backing from authorities.[1] After the New Order ended, the connotation of "Nine Dragons" shifted to become more neutral, referring to businessmen who dominated the Indonesian economy, considered as a result of mutualistic symbiosis with the New Order government.[1]
Members
editThere are no conclusive sources or evidence that precisely identify the members of the Nine Dragons.[1] Nevertheless, several names are often mentioned as potential members, including:[3][5]
- Robert Budi Hartono, (Djarum);
- Rusdi Kirana, (Lion Air Group);
- Sofjan Wanandi, (Santini Group);
- Jacob Soetoyo, (PT Gesit Sarana Perkasa);
- James Riady, (Lippo Group);
- Tomy Winata, (Artha Graha Group);
- Anthoni Salim, (Salim Group);
- Dato Sri Tahir, (Mayapada Group);
- Edwin Soeryadjaya, (PT Astra International);
- Sugianto Kusuma, also known as Aguan (Agung Sedayu Group).[6]
Some of the mentioned businessmen have denied their involvement, such as Tommy Winata, who considers it a damaging imagination.[1]
Impact
editThe existence of the "Nine Dragons" demonstrates the concentration of economic and political power in the hands of a few businessmen.[1] Their dominance is reflected in various important sectors such as banking, real estate, manufacturing, and retail.[1] The "Nine Dragons" are considered to have made significant contributions to Indonesia's economic growth, especially during the New Order era, with their massive investments in various sectors.[4] However, their dominance has also raised concerns about monopolistic practices, economic inequality, and lack of fair competition.[4]
See also
editReferences
edit- ^ a b c d e f g h "Menelusuri Jejak 9 Naga di Indonesia, Siapa Mereka?". CNBC Indonesia (in Indonesian). 2023-07-02. Retrieved 2024-10-07.
- ^ Yesidora, Amelia (2023-06-21). "Legenda Sembilan Naga, Kelompok Pengusaha Berjaya di Era Orde Baru". katadata.co.id (in Indonesian). Retrieved 2024-10-07.
- ^ a b "Inilah 9 Naga dengan Kekayaan dan Sepak Terjangnya di Indonesia". medcom.id (in Indonesian). 2024-07-04. Retrieved 2024-10-07.
- ^ a b c Profil Tokoh (2024-08-19). "Siapa Saja 9 Naga Penguasa Ekonomi Indonesia? Ini Penjelasan Selengkapnya". kumparan (in Indonesian). Retrieved 2024-10-07.
- ^ Irmarahmasari (2023-09-06). "Mengenal Sosok 9 Naga, Penguasa Ekonomi Indonesia, Lengkap dengan Bisnis dan Kekayaannya". TribunHealth.com (in Indonesian). Retrieved 2024-10-07.
- ^ "Keakraban Jokowi, Prabowo, dan Sang 'Naga', Penuh Tawa di PIK". CNBC Indonesia (in Indonesian). 2023-06-17. Retrieved 2024-10-07.