Destry Damayanti Outlines Bank Indonesia's Priorities Amid Global Uncertainty
The incoming Governor of Bank Indonesia (BI), Destry Damayanti, has stated that stability remains the priority for Indonesia’s central bank, given the ongoing high levels of global uncertainty.
She noted that if the Indonesian economy remains stable, the stability of the rupiah exchange rate and inflation can be maintained, which will ultimately create a conducive climate for even higher economic growth.
“The stance remains the same: stability is key. In current conditions, where global uncertainty remains high, stability remains our focus,” Destry said during an interview at the DPR RI Building, Jakarta, on Tuesday.
In general, Destry stated that good policies from the previous leadership that are relevant to modern developments will be continued. However, she reminded that policies are highly dependent on current conditions.
When asked about the activities planned for the Board of Governors (ADG) following the swearing-in ceremony at the Supreme Court on Wednesday, 2 September, Destry explained that the allocation of sectors for each member of the Board would be conducted so that duties and responsibilities could commence effectively.
She also ensured that coordination with the government would continue to be strengthened so that future monetary and fiscal policies could operate in greater alignment.
“Because the government, through its fiscal policy, carries out its expansion plans, Bank Indonesia will naturally support that. Therefore, communication is essential to ensure our fiscal and monetary policies are in sync moving forward,” said Destry.
Regarding price stability, she added that coordination would be strengthened to ensure inflation targets are met. This is particularly relevant to volatile food inflation from the supply side, which cannot be managed by the central bank alone but requires direct intervention from the government.
Furthermore, Destry added that strengthening cooperation with the government and business actors would continue, particularly regarding the promotion of Local Currency Transactions (LCT).
“We also share the same concerns with members of the DPR regarding how to achieve quality economic growth. Therefore, we are constantly discussing this, particularly concerning MSMEs,” she said.