The implementation of symmetrical decentralization based on Law on Regional Autonomy has occurred because the government does not have asymmetrical design of decentralization to be applied in regional governments. Even if there is, it is more caused by a particular region's demand due to the emergence of various problems and disintegration threat.
The research by Government Studies Department, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, UGM, found the emergence of autonomy and particularity in several regions, such as Aceh, Batam, Jakarta, Yogyakarta Special Province, West Kalimantan, and Papua. “The implementation of asymmetrical decentralization very much depends on leadership; even the political achievement is very determined by political figures and lobby,†said one member of the team, Dr. Abdul Gaffar Karim, Wednesday (24/2), in “Asymmetrical Decentralization Seminar for Indonesia†in 3rd floor of PAU Building .   Â
Gaffar gave examples of early practices of special decentralization authority in regions, done by figures such as, Teuku Daud Beureuh and Hasan Tiro in Aceh, Ali Sadikin and Sutiyoso in Jakarta, HB IX in Yogyakarta, also Sultan Hamid II in West Kalimantan. “These people were figures in asymmetrical decentralization†he explained.
The implementation of asymmetrical decentralization is still obstructed by regulations. In Aceh for instance, there are 3 of 7 new Government Regulations that are expected to be able to follow up the Special Autonomy Law. Meanwhile in Batam, there is no regulation having been issued. Gaffar added that the Laws issued by the House of Representatives are contradictory.
Cornelis Lay, UGM political expert, said that in the past five years, there have been government’s measures enlarging the number of employees in central agencies to manage autonomy affairs. “All regional works have central human resources,†he said. In that occasion, Cornelis also urged the House of Representatives to evaluate the need to change the paradigm of autonomy.