Profile of Rieke Diah Pitaloka, Activist and Politician Who Boldly Asks Minister Budi Arie About Online Gambling

Kapanlagi.com - The online gambling case involving 11 Civil Servants (ASN) from the Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Digital has shaken the public and triggered a strong reaction from Rieke Diah Pitaloka, an artist and member of the Indonesian House of Representatives from the PDI Perjuangan faction. In her statement reported by Kapanlagi.com, this member of Commission VI questioned the government's seriousness in tackling cybercrime.

Rieke reminded of the promise made by Budi Arie Setiadi, the Minister of Cooperatives who previously served as the Minister of Communication and Informatics, to "crack down" on gambling mafias and illegal online loans. She emphasized that currently, the Indonesian people are trapped in online loan debts reaching a fantastic figure of Rp138 trillion.

According to her, this is a result of weak regulations in the digital sector. In a firm tone, Rieke demanded real action from the government to protect the public from this harmful debt trap.

1. Biography

Rieke Diah Pitaloka, a talented politician known for her outspoken nature in the Indonesian House of Representatives, has had an interesting journey from the world of arts to the national political stage. Born in Garut on January 8, 1974, Rieke combines her strong artistic and academic skills, making her a colorful figure in advocating for people's rights, especially in confronting the symbolic violence of the state and protecting migrant workers.

Since her youth, she has engaged in arts and education with a focus on critical thinking against detrimental state actions, and with her unique background as an artist, activist, and academic, Rieke continues to tirelessly fight for policy improvements that negatively impact the lives of ordinary people.

2. Educational Background and Early Career

Rieke, an outstanding academic, has followed an impressive educational path by earning a bachelor's degree in Dutch Literature from the University of Indonesia, followed by a master's degree in philosophy and a doctoral degree in communication science, also from the same institution.

Her deep interest in issues of state violence was triggered by her research on the mechanisms of violence in authoritarian regimes, such as those that occurred during the Nazi era in Germany, which she articulated in her thesis titled "The Banality of Violence."

Throughout her academic journey, Rieke explored the thoughts of prominent philosopher Hannah Arendt, particularly the theory of "banality of evil" which reveals how shallow thinking can facilitate state crimes.

This in-depth research then inspired her to write a book that raises awareness about how state violence can occur symbolically through oppressive policies.

3. Political Role and Advocacy for the Little People

Since stepping into the political arena as a member of the Indonesian House of Representatives from the PDI Perjuangan faction in 2009, Rieke Diah Pitaloka has been a loud voice for the rights of the little people, from migrant workers to local laborers.

Her deep concern for labor issues is closely tied to her experience as an ILO Migrant Worker Ambassador, where she fought alongside activists for the protection of Indonesian workers abroad.

Additionally, Rieke also played a crucial role in the enactment of Law Number 24 of 2011 concerning the National Social Security Agency, which provides comprehensive protection for workers, from health aspects to social security.

4. Doctoral Study and Critique of State Symbolic Violence

In 2022, Rieke achieved a remarkable accomplishment by earning a cum laude doctoral degree, and her dissertation titled "State Symbolic Violence" was published in book form.

In her work, she utilizes brilliant theories from Pierre Bourdieu and Nick Couldry to reveal how data managed by the state often serves as a tool to control society through symbolic violence.

With a burning spirit, Rieke is determined to promote the use of more participatory data that benefits the lives of rural citizens, making her a figure committed to better social change.

5. Dedication and Struggle as an Activist and Poet

Rieke, a talented poet, has produced meaningful works that raise social awareness, such as "Closet Reflections" and "How to Enjoy Memories Well."

With direct guidance from legendary writer Sitor Situmorang, she has made poetry a weapon of struggle.

Rieke believes that art is not just a tool for entertainment, but a means of education that can touch hearts, and she emphasizes that art and politics always go hand in hand in the effort to uphold justice.

6. What motivates Rieke Diah Pitaloka to enter the world of politics?

With burning spirit, Rieke stepped into the world of politics not just to make a mark, but to be a voice for the marginalized.

She is determined to fight for social welfare, health security, and protection for migrant workers, combining her rich artistic experience with sharp academic thinking.

Through this synergy, Rieke strives to create policies that are not only just but also touch the heart and bring real change to society.

7. What is Rieke's contribution to the protection of migrant workers?

As the ILO Migrant Workers Ambassador, Rieke tirelessly advocates for the revision of Law No. 39 of 2004, which regulates the Placement and Protection of Indonesian Workers (TKI) abroad.

With an unwavering fighting spirit, she has succeeded in changing the perspective of the state, which previously prioritized business interests, to focus more on the protection of migrant workers' rights.

8. What is Rieke's view on art and politics?

Rieke confidently states that art is the pinnacle of all political activities, a medium that can educate and mobilize society.

She believes that a great politician must have a profound artistic soul, because only then can they realize justice and welfare for the people.

(kpl/rmt)