Introductory Remarks of President of the Republic of Indonesia At Limited Cabinet Meeting Through Video Conference on the Follow-Up Mitigation Program of COVID-19 Impact on the Real Sector Wednesday, 22 April 2020, at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta

Bismillahirrahmanirrahim.

Assalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.

Distinguished Vice President,

Ladies and Gentlemen.

Measures taken to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on the real sector are very important because the sector is the hardest-hit by the outbreak of COVID-19 which affects all sectors, all socioeconomic segments of our society.

To that end, there is a need for mitigation and economic stimulus that help the most affected sectors. This is because the real sector absorbs a lot of workers and we expect them to be able to survive and not to conduct layoffs.

Therefore, I want to highlight a number of things. First, a rapid assessment is needed for all affected real sectors. Do analyze and sort out in detail the most affected sector, the sector that is mildly affected, and the sector that is still able to survive and can actually make the most of opportunities.

Second, I also remind you that the sectors that need help are not only the medium or small businesses but also micro businesses. This is very important. We have talked about small businesses and medium businesses, I think these three sectors are very important. We have talked about micro businesses, small businesses and medium businesses so that economic stimulus must reach these sectors. However, do not put aside those related to the informal sector because this sector also absorbs a lot of labors.

Third, the scheme should be truly open, transparent and measurable. Everything should be calculated, including the sectors, the stimulus, and the number of labors that can be saved. I demand that everything should be verified in detail, and be evaluated periodically so that the effectiveness of the economic stimulus can truly benefit the real sector.

I think that concludes my remarks.

Translated by Ridwan Ibadurrohman
Reviewed by Muhardi