DPR Urges Focus on Water and Basic Infrastructure as Public Works Budget Faces Steep Cuts

The Directorate General of Human Settlements at the Ministry of Public Works (PU) has admitted it cannot initiate new infrastructure projects in 2027 due to severe budget constraints. During a hearing, Acting Director General Chandra P. Situmorang revealed that the indicative budget ceiling has been set at Rp11.07 trillion, far below the required Rp30.42 trillion. The limited funds will be directed towards completing ongoing projects, fulfilling multi-year contracts, and supporting community-based programmes. Consequently, no new project proposals, including those from regional development planning meetings, can be accommodated. In response, the House of Representatives (DPR) Commission V has urged the ministry to sharpen its focus on providing basic services. Deputy Speaker Roberth Rouw stressed that the 2027 budget must prioritise access to clean drinking water, area development, and educational and health facilities. The DPR also insisted that its recommendations from previous budget discussions be fully integrated into the final spending plan.