The Political-Economic Analysis On Indonesian Anti-Chinese Riots

In Southeast Asia, Indonesia is a country that has tradition in anti-Chinese riots. In more than fifty years from its independence, anti-Chinese riots had not intermitted in Indonesia, it become the worst country among Southeast Asia on this point, heretofore, the status of Chinese here is still very unsteady. The reason of anti-Chinese riots is very complex as it has been inextricably related with the Indonesia history, politics, economy and society, which had been deeply discussed. But in my opinion, most studies were focused on the riots erupted in post-colonial era, on the contrary, little researches about the original historical cause, especially for the earlier riots before 1930, has been done."Exclusion is the heritage of history", as Indonesian historian H.Mohammod and J.Syahbon once pointed out, so it's very urgent and necessary to make a comprehensive study tracing to the source. This paper will focus on the new trait of Indonesian political-economic development between 19th century and the early period of 20th century, make a study on the earlier racial conflict from political and economic perspectives, examine the vigorous expansion of Chinese industry and trade in Indonesia and anti-Chinese sentiments as well as the violent response of local Javanese people under the leadership of Sarekat Islam who played a very important role in anti-Chinese riots. Finally, this paper emphasize Chinese problem in Indonesia should not only been considered in the frame of race, but also been studied in the context of Indonesia history and culture, as well as politics and economy.The paper consists of five chapters. The first is the analysis of political system of Indonesia before early 20th century, and lays an emphasis on the discussion of the transition and characteristic of Netherlands Indian colonial policy between 1870s and 1930s.The second part examines the economic development and character of Chinese economy in Netherlands Indian colony, which in fact directly worsened racial conflict in early year of 20th century in Indonesia.The third part talks about Sarekat Islam and anti-Chinese riots in Java in early 20th century. As an political organization with Islamic background, Sarekat Islam played a very important role in anti-Chinese riots in Java.The fourth part lists some wrong argumentation about Indonesian Chinese, and combines the analysis of practice, tries to discern the historical source of anti-Chinese riots in Indonesia.The epilogue makes some simple comparison, and summarizes anti-Chinese riots in Southeast Asia countries, pointing out that promoting political reformation and economic development is the only solution of Chinese Problem in Indonesia.