By: David Kiva Prambudi*
Indonesia’s situation remains highly conducive. The policies currently being implemented by the government show that the country is committed to maintaining both economic and social stability, which benefits all its citizens.
The demonstration under the banner ‘Indonesia Gelap’ has proven to trigger chaos in various parts of Indonesia. In East Java, for instance, the protest ended in riots when some demonstrators attempted to storm the local DPRD building, burning coffins and banners they were carrying, prompting security forces to take firm action. In Jakarta, demonstrators threw plastic bottles, trash, and wooden sticks at security officers.
In Makassar, South Sulawesi, the demonstration further disrupted public order by blocking the Trans-Sulawesi route, causing significant traffic congestion. As a result, the public, whom they claimed to represent, was the one who had to bear the consequences with disrupted daily activities.
In light of these situations, students must understand and study that the policies being applied are actually designed to improve the welfare of the people, not harm them.
One of the policies currently being rolled out is budget efficiency, which the government is undertaking in the right direction. President Prabowo Subianto emphasized his optimism regarding this policy, applauding the ministers who have adjusted their ministries’ budgets to achieve a significant efficiency of Rp306 trillion.
The President believes that this policy will not only ensure efficient use of the budget but also provide positive impacts on Indonesian society, particularly by improving the quality of public services.
This budget efficiency policy, at its core, has a long-term goal aimed at improving the welfare of the people. Global economic uncertainties cannot be used as an excuse to delay the implementation of policies that will provide stability for Indonesia’s economy.
This budget efficiency is also part of the government’s efforts to respond to Indonesia’s major challenges, such as global economic tensions and climate change, which affect key sectors.
According to President Prabowo, with this policy, the state can continue to run development programs that support the improvement of welfare without compromising the basic needs of the public. Therefore, this policy must be understood wisely, without responding to provocations that could create social uncertainty.
However, the emergence of concerning issues, such as speculation about the dismissal of honorary workers in ministries and agencies, should not add to the public’s worries.
Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati, in a press conference on February 14, 2025, clarified that the rumors about honorary workers being laid off are false. The budget reconstruction being undertaken by the government is aimed at ensuring that budget efficiency does not result in the reduction of honorary workers who have contributed significantly to public services.
This measure is also meant to ensure that all sectors of public service continue to function well and in line with President’s Instruction No. 1 of 2025. The Minister’s emphasis on the importance of further research regarding this budget efficiency policy demonstrates the government’s seriousness in managing the state’s finances without causing discomfort for honorary workers.
The government recognizes that the biggest challenge in implementing such large policies is ensuring that all affected parties clearly understand the goals and processes. Therefore, more intensive education and socialization are needed so that the public is not caught up in baseless issues that could disrupt social harmony.
On the other hand, Indonesia’s economic stability remains intact, even though inflation is one of the main concerns. Inflation, which remains controlled within the range of 1.5% to 3.5%, according to Ramadhan Wafid Mustafa, the Chief Statistician at the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), will not significantly affect the public’s purchasing power.
In fact, inflation being kept within this range indicates a healthy economy. Good inflation control will maintain the stability of prices for goods and services, which in turn will support the public’s purchasing power.
In this context, provocations from a small group of people who manipulate the situation become detrimental. When the situation is stable and conducive, actions that encourage mass protests or riots only disturb the ongoing development process.
Such provocations not only threaten social stability but also create uncertainty in a society striving to improve welfare. Therefore, it would be wiser if every element of society understands the larger goals behind the government’s policies and together maintains order while supporting policies that bring long-term benefits.
Ultimately, Indonesia remains on the right track to face both economic and social challenges. The budget efficiency policy, well-controlled inflation, and the government’s efforts to ensure the welfare of the people are proof that Indonesia is still highly conducive to growth.
Provocation that could disrupt peace will only worsen the situation, ultimately harming all parties. Therefore, it is time for all of society to unite in maintaining peace and supporting government programs for the nation’s progress. By understanding and supporting the policies being implemented, Indonesia can overcome all challenges and emerge stronger and more united.
Contributor at Yudistira Institute
