Kupang — President Prabowo Subianto called on officials across ministries, government institutions, and regional heads to cut costs on official trips and events such as seminars.
Speaking at the Tanwir and 112th Muhammadiyah Anniversary Reception with the theme “Bringing Prosperity for All” at Muhammadiyah University in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), Wednesday (4/12), Prabowo suggested reducing foreign travel expenses by up to 50%. He estimated that travel budgets currently total approximately USD 3 billion or IDR 47.8 trillion annually.
“Please, ministers, let’s fast for five years. If we save USD 1.5 billion from just travel expenses over five years, think of what we could achieve,” Prabowo said.
The savings, he explained, could significantly reduce state budget expenditures (APBN), allowing funds to be redirected to essential projects such as building dams, repairing schools, and funding the Free Nutritious Meals program.
“If we can cut these expenses, we could save IDR 15 trillion. That’s enough to build multiple dams and repair numerous elementary schools,” Prabowo emphasized.
He also encouraged local leaders in NTT to adopt strict, efficient, and results-oriented governance focused on national priorities.
“I urge elected district heads to be tight, efficient, and prioritize critical expenditures directly benefiting the people,” Prabowo said.
Prabowo highlighted the pressing challenges faced by the Indonesian people, including housing shortages for low-income families and young individuals.
“I know the difficulties our people face. Many laws clash—I’m aware. What’s the solution? People need affordable homes; we don’t need endless seminars about house types or numbers. They need action now,” Prabowo concluded. (RR)
