President Prabowo Announces Judge Pay Raise, Urges Systemic Welfare Reform for Judicial Integrity

JatimVoice.com – In a ceremony to appoint new judges at the Supreme Court, President Prabowo Subianto announced a salary increase for judges, emphasizing it as a strategic move to shield them from external pressures, gratification temptations, and corrupt practices. He argued that ensuring judges’ financial welfare is key to upholding justice impartially, fostering moral courage, legal objectivity, and judicial professionalism. While the decision is seen as rational and urgent for improving Indonesia’s justice system, questions remain about whether raising judges’ salaries alone is sufficient to ensure a functional and ethical judiciary.

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The judicial system relies not only on judges but also on supporting roles such as court clerks (panitera) and bailiffs (jurusita), who are often overlooked. Clerks manage the administrative flow, rhythm, and documentation of cases, while bailiffs serve as field mediators, executing court decisions. Their performance often determines whether justice is delivered or stalled. Focusing solely on judges risks creating an imbalanced system, where moral and functional integrity falters without systemic welfare improvements.

The article highlights that clerks and bailiffs face similar moral temptations as judges, such as administrative corruption or bribery during enforcement. A sectoral approach to welfare increases could lead to structural disparities, fostering psychological resentment and undermining teamwork within the judiciary. A judge’s ruling, no matter how sound, loses its impact if administrative or enforcement processes fail. Thus, a holistic ecosystem approach is needed, strengthening all judicial roles proportionally.

The Judicial Commission (KY) could play a pivotal role in enhancing oversight, ethical training, and a healthy work culture. Studies suggest that salary increases without robust accountability systems may lead to “moral licensing,” where individuals feel justified in unethical behavior due to perceived financial legitimacy. The KY should extend its oversight to clerks and bailiffs, ensuring their professional status is recognized as integral to the justice system. President Prabowo noted that welfare improvements for clerks and bailiffs will come in time, urging patience but expressing hope for swift action.

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