Gandasubrata was the first Chief Justice appointed from the professional judiciary since Umar Seno Aji.[3] During his two years in the position, much of his efforts were spent on attempts to increase the autonomy, power, and status of the judicial branch of government.[4] On the occasion of his retirement in 1994, Gandasubrata announced a 100% salary increase for Indonesian judges in a move that was seen as a parting gift.[5] The increase was later offset by a 45% reduction in benefits enacted by the government.[4]