The Utilization of Sultan Ground: Reflection of Asymmetrical Decentralization Reinforced by the Sultanate of Yogyakarta

This article explains the implementation of land administration under an asymmetrical decentralization policy, reinforced by Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta (further stated as DIY). Currently, the sultanate of Yogyakarta rules the territory under a particular normative scheme (Law No. 13/2012). It reflects historical and cultural administration which has been embedded to DIY, even before the independence of Indonesia was proclaimed in 1945. One of the special authority possessed by DIY is land affairs, including the management and utilization of the Sultan Ground and Pakualaman Ground. By using systematic literature review (SLR), this study found that asymmetrical decentralization of DIY has brought positive impact to avoid the conflict of land utilization in DIY. In certain case, the sultanate would negotiate to the citizen (land owner) and explain the reason of why the sultanate need the land for public purpose. Cultural approach was the key instrument maintained by the sultanate to persuade the citizen and to overcome the land conflict. Consequently, land market speculation is rarely found in DIY. Moreover, the local people also give their highest trust and respect to the government as they never witnessed land conflict exposed in media. The social development of DIY reflects a strong cultural characteristic of Java. It is shown in the modest daily life of the citizen, where capitalism could not control the ruler.