Prabowo Frustrated with Complicated Licensing Process: Other Countries Take 2 Weeks, Why Do We Take 2 Years?

Prabowo conveyed this during his directives at the handover event of funds seized by the Forest Area Regulation Task Force (PKH) amounting to Rp 10.2 trillion at the Attorney General’s Office. Prabowo called on all ministries and agencies to facilitate the licensing system. “All officials from all ministries and agencies should find ways to improve the system. Reduce inefficiencies, simplify licensing, do not make it difficult,” said Prabowo at the Attorney General’s building in Jakarta on Wednesday (13/5/2026). Prabowo compared the duration of licensing in Indonesia and other countries. He stated that other countries only require two weeks to process business and investment licences. This figure contrasts sharply with the time needed in Indonesia. “Entrepreneurs also complain that they want to work and invest, but sometimes they have to wait for a licence for one year or two years. Whereas in other countries, it’s two weeks,” explained Prabowo. “We must refer to our neighbouring countries; if they can issue licences in two weeks, why do we take two years?” added Prabowo. Prabowo requested that Indonesia’s licensing system be streamlined. He hopes his subordinates will assist entrepreneurs committed to contributing to the nation. “Simplify it, do not make it difficult for entrepreneurs; they must be helped and supported. We discipline the naughty ones, but those who are good and truly want to work must be helped,” concluded Prabowo.