26/02/2026
Rencana Pembangunan Lima Tahun (PELITA)
Pelita (Pembangunan Lima Tahun) was a national development planning system implemented during the New Order era under President Soeharto. The program was designed to provide clear direction for Indonesia’s economic, social, and political development through structured five-year stages. Pelita emphasized stability as the foundation of development, with the belief that economic growth would lead to improved living standards and national unity.
Pelita I (1969–1974) focused on restoring economic stability after years of political and economic uncertainty. The government concentrated on controlling inflation, rehabilitating damaged infrastructure, and increasing agricultural productivity. Major attention was given to food production, irrigation systems, transportation networks, and rural development to ensure that basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter could be met.
Pelita II (1974–1979) aimed to accelerate economic growth while promoting more equitable distribution of development benefits. The government continued to strengthen agriculture but also expanded industrial activities, particularly industries related to natural resources. Infrastructure development increased, and efforts were made to reduce poverty and unemployment through job creation.
Pelita III (1979–1984) marked a shift toward economic diversification. As Indonesia sought to reduce its dependence on oil and gas revenues, the government promoted non-oil exports and manufacturing industries. This phase encouraged industrial expansion, improved trade performance, and strengthened the role of the private sector in economic development.
Pelita IV (1984–1989) emphasized self-reliance and efficiency, especially in the agricultural sector. One of its most notable achievements was Indonesia’s success in achieving rice self-sufficiency. Export growth, industrial competitiveness, and employment expansion were also important priorities during this phase, helping to stabilize the national economy.
Pelita V (1989–1994) focused on advancing industrialization and improving the quality of human resources. Education, vocational training, and technological development were prioritized to prepare the workforce for more complex industrial and economic activities. The government also encouraged investment and modernization across various sectors.
Pelita VI (1994–1998) was designed to prepare Indonesia to compete in an increasingly globalized economy. The focus was on strengthening industry, finance, and human resources. However, this phase was severely disrupted by the Asian Financial Crisis in 1997, which caused economic collapse, social unrest, and ultimately led to the end of the New Order era.
In my opinion, Pelita was a good development program because it helped Indonesia grow in an organized way. It improved agriculture, infrastructure, and the economy, and it helped people meet their basic needs. One of its successes was achieving rice self-sufficiency. However, Pelita also had weaknesses, such as uneven development between regions and limited public involvement during the New Order era under President Soeharto.
In conclusion, Pelita was an important part of Indonesia’s development history. Although it had both strengths and weaknesses, Pelita showed that clear planning is important for national development and future progress.
(by Brandon grade XII 2025/2026)