President Jokowi Reminds Regional Heads to Revise Budget for COVID-19 Mitigation

President Jokowi delivers introductory remarks at a Plenary Cabinet Meeting on budget refocusing and reallocation, macroeconomic framework, and main points of fiscal policies 2021, on Tuesday (14/4). (Photo by: PR/Ibrahim)

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo instructed Minister of Home Affairs and Minister of Finance to warn regional heads who have not revised their Regional Budgets for COVID-19 mitigation.

“There are 103 regions which have yet to allocate (Regional Budgets) for social safety net program,” President Jokowi said in his introductory remarks at a Plenary Cabinet Meeting on budget refocusing and reallocation, macroeconomic framework, and main points of fiscal policies 2021, on Tuesday (14/4).

The President went on to say that among regional heads, there are some who have not responded well to the unusual situation. He also ordered Minister of Home Affairs and Minister of Finance to draft guidance for regional budget reallocation and refocusing the existing programs.

“Thus, the Central Government and Regional Governments share one vision and priority to limit the spread of COVID-19,” he said.

President Jokowi also reminded ministries, institutions, and Regional Governments to review the State Budget and Regional Budgets.

“Cut low priority spending. Budget for official trips, less important meetings, and spending for matters which bring none direct benefit to the people should be curbed,” he said adding that the budget must prioritize COVID-19 mitigation, be it the health issue or economic and social issues which will follow later.

The President once again reiterated that the three issues must be prioritized, namely the mitigation of COVID-19, social safety net program, and economic stimulus for MSMEs and business players. (TGH/EN)

Translated by : Rany Anjany S
Reviewed by: Mia Medyana