House Commission X Urges BRIN to Strengthen Research-Based Recommendations

The House of Representatives’ Commission X has urged the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) to strengthen its role as a primary reference body by providing research-based recommendations to support the resolution of various national strategic issues. Deputy Chair of Commission X, MY Esti Wijayati, emphasised that parliament urgently requires scientific references when approving and drafting policies related to the commission’s working partners. This was conveyed during a Hearing Meeting with the Head of BRIN at the Parliamentary Complex in Senayan, Jakarta, on Thursday (16/7). “BRIN’s research results are our main foundation and primary reference when making policies related to our partners, at least those directly linked to the programme planning of the ministries partnering with Commission X,” Esti stated. Beyond serving as a policy reference, Commission X urged BRIN to ensure that state budget allocations have a tangible impact. Esti stressed that budget absorption must not be merely administrative but should contribute to increased innovation, the downstreaming of research results, and broader public welfare. Regarding funding, BRIN was asked to optimise the management of Foreign Loans and Grants through the mapping of priority programmes. This step is expected to strengthen the facilitation of sustainable research, including for students, and accelerate the commercialisation of research results to enhance national competitiveness. Esti also touched on the importance of safeguarding academic freedom within the research environment. According to her, transparent research results are essential for the nation’s progress, including in viewing students’ perspectives on the national political policy landscape. Finally, Commission X encouraged BRIN to maintain accountable financial governance. BRIN is expected to retain the Unqualified Opinion from the Audit Board of Indonesia in the upcoming fiscal year’s audit.