RI Govt targets completion of regional structuring master plan by 2026

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto said the Grand Design for Regional Structuring, or Desartada, is being drafted in response to problems arising from regional autonomy policies.

“This grand design is important as the foundation for regional autonomy and our response to challenges linked to the creation of new regions,” Sugiarto said on Tuesday.

He said a comprehensive review was needed to assess regions’ financial independence and contributions to national economic growth.

Desartada will examine not only regional authority but also governance, oversight and leadership quality, he added.

According to Sugiarto, 2026 data show significant disparities in fiscal capacity among regions.

Jakarta, Banten and East Kalimantan have relatively strong fiscal capacity, while many other regions remain dependent on central government transfers.

“We must view this more broadly. Strengthening regional autonomy involves regulations, local elections and cultural factors,” he said.

The ministry also highlighted differing development outcomes among newly established regions, citing improvements in stunting, human development and economic growth in Jambi City.

Sugiarto said the blueprint would also address governance integrity, including corruption risks, by examining recruitment systems, oversight mechanisms and broader bureaucratic reforms.

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Translator: Devi, Kenzu