Ombudsman proposes optimising inter-agency coordination via PICs

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Ombudsman has proposed optimising inter-agency coordination through the appointment of active and responsive persons in charge (PICs) or contact points. Ombudsman member Abdul Ghoffar stated that this step is crucial to accelerate the follow-up of complaints and the resolution of various public service issues. “The Ombudsman encourages strengthening collaboration, particularly in resolving public complaints and preventing maladministration in the trade sector,” he said in Jakarta on Friday. He noted that one such collaborative effort involves the Ministry of Trade, with a meeting held on Thursday (11/6) to discuss strengthening public service oversight in the trade sector. Additionally, the Ombudsman is promoting the implementation of public service reviews as a preventive measure against maladministration, including the fulfilment of public service standards within the Ministry of Trade. Both institutions are also expected to collaborate on human resource capacity building through seminars, training, and focused discussions on public service and trade substance. During the meeting, Abdul presented data on public reports in the trade sector. “From 2020 to May 2026, the Ombudsman received 408 public reports related to the trade sector, with 44 reports specifically concerning the Ministry of Trade,” he said. The Ombudsman also delivered the results of the 2025 Public Service Delivery Oversight Opinion assessment for the Ministry of Trade, which achieved a High Quality category with a low potential for maladministration. The Ombudsman further presented findings from the monitoring of staple goods prices ahead of Eid al-Adha 2026. The Ombudsman expressed appreciation for the response provided by the Ministry of Trade together with the Coordinating Ministry for Food in maintaining staple goods price stability ahead of Eid al-Adha 2026. Meanwhile, Trade Minister Budi Santoso welcomed the collaborative efforts proposed by the Ombudsman. He said the various inputs could serve as evaluation material to improve the quality of service to the public. “Thank you for the inputs conveyed by the Ombudsman. I think they can serve as material to improve policies and activities that still need refinement in terms of service to consumers and the public,” said Budi.