Finance Minister Purbaya's Message to Tax Officials: Do Not Create Policies on Your Own!

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Finance Minister (Menkeu) Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has reminded all tax officials that the tasks they undertake are not merely about collecting state revenues, but also about safeguarding public trust in the nation. He conveyed this during the inauguration of eight new officials within the Directorate General of Taxes on Tuesday morning (12/5/2026). He emphasised the importance of discipline, professionalism, and integrity in carrying out their duties. “If you are unsure about executing a task due to unclear regulations, report it to me. We will review the regulations and amend them if necessary. I ask you to maintain execution discipline. Data must be accurate, and assignments must be risk-based,” Purbaya stated in his address on Tuesday (12/5/2026). Purbaya acknowledged that the position of tax officials is not easy. On one hand, overly aggressive actions can stir unrest in society and the business world. On the other hand, an overly lenient approach risks depressing state revenues. “You can see, as tax officials, you walk on a thin line. Too harsh, it causes uproar; too weak, it also causes uproar, and income drops. So, your position actually requires always adhering to the existing rules and maintaining integrity in everything,” he said. Therefore, integrity must be upheld, and every decision taken must be clearly accountable. On the other hand, Purbaya also reminded that positions in the taxation sector are not facilities, but functions that must be carried out with full responsibility. “Do it well. Maintain integrity. Implement policies. Do not create policies on your own,” he said. “My message is that we are not just collecting taxes. We are safeguarding the people’s trust, strengthening state revenues, and ensuring that the Unitary Republic of Indonesia continues to stand firm. So, the responsibility of you gentlemen and ladies is actually very heavy,” he added.