Finance Minister assures presidential policies consider fiscal risks
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has assured that every strategic decision made by President Prabowo Subianto undergoes a joint discussion mechanism that considers various economic, social, and fiscal capacity aspects.
Purbaya stated in a written statement in Jakarta on Friday that his ministry always provides analysis on fiscal risks and budget impacts as material for the President’s consideration in decision-making.
The State Revenue and Expenditure Budget (APBN) deficit is maintained below the maximum limit of 3 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP), whilst the government debt ratio remains at a safe level compared to many other countries.
“Last year the APBN deficit was around 2.81 per cent of GDP and this year it is estimated to remain below 3 per cent. The government debt ratio is also still around 40 per cent of GDP, so it remains in a prudent category,” said the Finance Minister.
Regarding various government priority programmes, such as the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) and the Merah Putih Village Cooperatives, the Finance Minister stated that the government continues to conduct evaluations to ensure their implementation becomes more efficient and on target.
According to him, every new programme faces challenges in its early stages, so monitoring and improvements will continue to be carried out.
The Finance Minister stated that the government has taken steps to streamline the budget, strengthen oversight mechanisms, and enhance coordination with implementing agencies to ensure state spending is more accountable.
“The government does not turn a blind eye to various shortcomings. The most important thing is that every weakness is immediately corrected and its supervision is strengthened,” said Purbaya.
On another note, the Finance Minister assured that reforms within the Ministry of Finance continue to be strengthened, including the eradication of malpractices in the taxation and customs sectors.
He emphasised that there will be no tolerance for officials proven to have committed violations.
Various corrective measures are being carried out through strengthened supervision, employee rotations, and sanctions against individuals proven to have abused their authority.
These steps are expected to enhance the institution’s integrity while strengthening state revenues.
“Deviation is always a risk in any organisation. The most important thing is to control it, take action against the perpetrators, and continue to improve the system to make it cleaner,” he said.