The contribution of the informal sector to development : a study of street food vendors in Jakarta Indonesia : a thesis presented in fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Philosophy in Development Studies at Massey University
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Date
2004
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Massey University
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Abstract
This thesis discusses how the development strategies and policies implemented by the Government have failed to distribute income and wealth and have exacerbated inequality instead. It shows viewpoints which argued that this kind of development has enriched only a few people while leaving others marginalised. It also reveals that the misconception of ideal development as similar to the state found in developed countries has undermined other forms of economic activities and development which are different from and do not conform to the recipe given by those model countries. It leads to the harsh treatment and affects many economic activities initiated by the marginalised people. This study tries to point out the importance of the informal sector to development, which forms a large portion of the workforce in many developing countries. It studied how these economic activities provided a means for survival for those people. It assesses the contribution of this sector to job creation, income generation activities, improved livelihoods and living standards. It studied the sustainability of this sector against the economic crisis which started in the middle of 1997. It focused on food businesses operated on the sidewalks in the area known as the Segi Tiga Emas (the Golden Triangle) in Jakarta. The results of this study revealed a number of interesting findings. This particular informal sector was found to make a huge contribution to the livelihoods of the people involved in it. It also contributed to the well-being of many people who used its services. Some of the income derived from these businesses was transferred to other provinces from where the vendors came from, meaning it helped in the regional distribution of wealth. As most of these businesses employed relatives or family members it also created jobs for the unemployed. These businesses were found not to be badly affected by the economic crisis and seeing how they had been running for a number of years, they were also susainable. Unfortunately, this good living enjoyed by the people involved in this sector was only for the self-employed or the owners of the businesses. The wage workers who worked at street food stalls did not receive a good income for their labour nor did they get any protection from the Indonesian Government. Regardless, the existence of the informal sector should not be curbed or eliminated. The Government should take decisive steps in promoting the development of this sector. This promotion should include steps to protect and should regard the development of individuals, small groups and marginalised people as an important part of development.
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Indonesia -- Jakarta, Informal sector (Economics), Vending stands, Economic development