Lestareno S Basariasis, Jakarta – The government is currently trying to cut the state budget to improve efficiency in financial management. Speaking at the Labour Party's 2nd National Working Meeting (Rakernas) at the Tavia Hotel in Jakarta on Monday February 17, Labour Party President Said Iqbal highlighted the budget efficiency measures taken by President Prabowo Subianto.
Iqbal stated that the Labor Party supports the budget efficiency policy initiated by Prabowo. The reason being because both Prabowo and the Labor Party believe that there is a leakage of the state budget which is estimated to be as much as 30 percent. Therefore, the trimming of the budget aims to ensure that this leak can be prevented.
However, the Labor Party is making a special note related to budget cuts on several important items. "This efficiency must be done with items that do have the potential for waste, such as excessive meetings and official travel. However, if the education or road infrastructure budget is trimmed, the Labour Party hopes that Prabowo will review the policy", Iqbal said.
In addition, the Labour Party also highlighted the budget for events and activities by regional heads. They asked that the cost of the events be compared with the previous ones in order to ensure that the costs incurred are smaller. "If it's smaller, we agree with the policy. However, if it's greater, then it's contrary to the spirit of efficiency that is being promoted", he added.
The budget efficiency measures have become of concern to various parties given the importance of the appropriate allocation of funds for the benefit of the wider community. The Labour Party hopes that this policy does not just trim the budget, but also considers sectors that really need funds for the development and welfare of the ordinary people.
[Translated by James Balowski. The original title of the article was "Partai Buruh Dukung Efisiensi Anggaran oleh Prabowo, Namun Beri Catatan Kritis".]
