DPD Speaker Emphasises Regional Transfer Funds as Instrument for Equitable Development

The Speaker of the Regional Representative Council (DPD RI), Sultan Bachtiar Najamudin, has expressed appreciation for the substantial central government spending allocation to the regions through various priority programmes. However, he stated that adjustments to regional transfer funds must consider the need for basic services. Sultan made the remarks during his speech at the 2026 joint session of the DPD and the House of Representatives (DPR RI) at the Parliament Complex in Senayan, Jakarta, on Friday (14/8/2026). Sultan noted that the basic regional needs requiring attention include health and education. “The policy of adjusting regional transfer funds must continue to consider the needs and capabilities of regions in providing basic services, such as education, health, and infrastructure,” Sultan said. Sultan stated that regional transfer funds are not merely budget allocations, but are intended for equitable development. To this end, he urged regional governments to enhance their revenue innovation. “Regional transfer funds are not just budget allocations, but instruments for economic growth and equitable development. Therefore, regional governments need to improve revenue innovation, spending effectiveness, and the quality of development planning,” he stated. In his speech, Sultan also touched upon the Indonesian nation’s ability to face numerous problems over 81 years, attributing this resilience to the people’s enduring love for the country. “This nation has faced conflict, economic crises, natural disasters, pandemics, political turmoil, and various historical trials. Yet, Indonesia remains standing tall,” he said.