Destry Affirms BI-Government Synergy Will Not Reduce Independence

Bank Indonesia (BI) governor candidate Destry Damayanti has affirmed that the Sinergi Merah Putih concept she is proposing would not reduce the central bank’s independence in carrying out its duties. Destry made the statement while answering questions from members of House of Representatives Commission XI during a fit and proper test for BI governor candidates on Wednesday (26/8/2026).

“This synergy does not mean reducing the credibility and independence of Bank Indonesia in carrying out its duties,” Destry said.

According to Destry, synergy is necessary because current economic problems are increasingly complex and cannot be solved by a single institution alone. Each ministry and agency still has its own mandate, but they need to move together to achieve greater results.

“This synergy is not just about working together, but how we unite our strengths. We complement each other and we move in harmony,” she said.

Destry affirmed that BI would continue to uphold the principle of independence in accordance with the BI Law. On the other hand, BI’s mandate is also expanding to create a conducive economic climate for real sector growth and job creation.

“This means Bank Indonesia’s task is to create a conducive economic climate and, together with all stakeholders, we strive to drive the real sector and create jobs,” she said.

She said the synergy does not mean BI is taking over the government’s tasks or vice versa. Each institution continues to work according to its own authority and responsibilities.

Destry assessed that this approach is increasingly important because global and domestic economic conditions are facing unusual challenges. Therefore, policy cannot rely on just one instrument.

“If we are consistent and aligned with the government’s aim to achieve a certain level of growth, then as one actor or one institution within the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia, we must work and move together,” she said.

She affirmed that the ultimate goal is to produce higher-quality economic growth and broader benefits for society.

Sinergi Merah Putih is one of Destry’s main ideas if she is entrusted with the role of BI Governor. The concept would be implemented together with the government, authorities, academics, the House of Representatives, regional governments, and other stakeholders while maintaining the boundaries of each party’s authority.