JAKARTA – The role of State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN) is becoming increasingly crucial because Indonesia faces major challenges in realizing national economic growth. BUMN are required to not only focus on achieving profits, but also have the responsibility to participate in economic equality throughout Indonesia. Minister of State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN) Erick Thohir emphasized that the role of BUMN as a balancer of the national economy must continue to be carried out to support economic equality in Indonesia.
Erick said that this direction is in line with President Prabowo Subianto’s commitment to realizing an inclusive and equitable economy.
BUMN plays a role as a driving force for Indonesia’s economic recovery. Based on the data released, BUMN has made a major contribution in supporting vital sectors such as infrastructure, energy, health, and food.
“This success is not only felt in economic centers, but also includes the outermost regions and underdeveloped areas,” he said.
Furthermore, solid and resilient BUMNs have proven to be able to carry out a number of strategic programs, from basic infrastructure development to providing public services needed by the community. For example, PT PLN (Persero) as a state electricity company, not only focuses on increasing the capacity of power plants, but also expanding the distribution network to remote areas. This allows for equal access to energy which is very important for economic development in these areas.
Economic empowerment programs run by BUMN also help address social disparities. Many BUMN invest in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs that are directly felt by the community. For example, PT Pertamina (Persero) which develops local economic empowerment programs through partnerships with micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and supports improving the skills of local communities.
Erick said that BUMN is committed to providing support to sectors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through mass vaccination programs and distribution of social assistance, BUMN is participating in economic recovery that is evenly distributed across all levels of society.” He explained.
Meanwhile, Special Staff III of the Minister of SOEs Arya Mahendra Sinulingga said that SOEs will continue to develop the Indonesian economy in order to provide a positive impact on the people and also on state revenues amid the global economic slowdown.
“The success in carrying out these social and economic functions cannot be separated from the collaborative efforts between the government, society, and the private sector. With good synergy,” he said.