Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian Opens Collaboration to Appreciate High-Performing Regional Governments
Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian has opened the door for collaboration with other ministries and state institutions to appreciate high-performing regional governments. The initiative seeks to expand the forms of recognition beyond the Ministry of Home Affairs’ own awards, while encouraging local administrations to improve their performance across various sectors of public service and development.
Speaking at the 2026 High-Performing Regional Government Appreciation event for the Sumatra region in Batam, Riau Islands, Karnavian stated that the second batch of awards focused on the environment, health, education, and the implementation of the 3 Million Houses Programme. He encouraged other ministries to use the platform to provide their own forms of appreciation or support to regions excelling in their respective fields. As an example, he suggested the Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas could provide house renovation quotas for regions successful in implementing the housing programme.
Karnavian explained that the judging mechanism was designed collaboratively, with the Ministry of Home Affairs working alongside relevant ministries such as the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Health for specific categories. He noted that the appreciation serves two purposes: providing a ‘carrot’ or incentive for local governments to boost performance, and showcasing to the public that many regional heads are performing well, countering the narrative that focuses only on problematic leaders.
Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago added that the awards align with the government’s broader development goals under the Asta Cita vision. He stated that achievements in the selected categories reflect the success of national priority programmes and should inspire other regions. Head of the Government Communication Body, Muhammad Qodari, conveyed President Prabowo’s message that development must ultimately lead to public welfare and happiness, ensuring that policies provide tangible solutions and equitable benefits for the people.