Indonesia's ministry cuts official trips by 65% to protect services

Speaking in Jakarta on Wednesday, Umar urged officials to adopt an “out-of-the-box” approach in planning amid budget constraints.

“Our reference should be the challenges ahead, not just the budget we have. If funds are limited, we must find alternatives,” he said.

The measure is part of efforts to improve efficiency by reducing non-priority spending.

Umar called on all ministry officials to transform their planning mindset, stressing that limited budgets should not hinder solutions to religious issues.

He said priority programs must continue to reach grassroots communities despite fiscal pressures.

To achieve this, he urged stronger coordination among directorate generals, regional offices, and state religious universities.

“Let us work as a super team, not Superman. I urge rectors and regional heads to collaborate beyond ceremonial meetings,” he said.

He also encouraged the use of community service students to support programs such as improving Quran literacy and preventing unregistered marriages.

Umar further called for integrated programs involving religious counselors, mosque imams, and religious affairs offices.

Meanwhile, Planning Bureau head Kastolan said overseas official trips would be cut by up to 70 percent, while domestic trips would be reduced by 65 percent.

“The savings will be redirected to maintain essential public services,” he said.

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Translator: Asep F, Tegar Nurfitra