What Do Senayan Parties Say About Prabowo's Proposal to Cut Ministerial and Parliamentary Salaries?

Jakarta — Political parties represented in parliament have responded to President Prabowo Subianto’s proposal to cut salaries for ministers and members of parliament.

Prabowo recently raised the idea, citing the example of other nations implementing austerity measures amid global economic crisis caused by Middle East conflicts. These measures include cutting official salaries, reducing fuel subsidies, implementing work-from-home policies, and halting non-essential government spending.

The question arises: do political parties support salary cuts for their members holding ministerial and parliamentary positions?

Golkar Party General Secretary Muhammad Sarmuji stated that Golkar members serving as ministers and parliamentary representatives are ready to accept salary reductions if the state requires such action.

Sarmuji said this willingness demonstrates sensitivity to the nation’s current condition and readiness to adapt should the government implement austerity policies.

“If the state needs it, we are ready to have our ministers and parliamentary members’ salaries cut. This is a symbolic effort to show we are sensitive to the situation and ready to adapt,” Sarmuji told Kompas.com on Monday (16 March 2026).

The Golkar Faction Chair in parliament believes the government should prepare various policy scenarios to address the uncertain global situation.

According to him, this step is crucial so the government can determine the most appropriate policies if global economic pressures impact the domestic economy.

“The government must already be conducting simulations about what can be done to address the situation,” Sarmuji concluded.