Government Launches New Policy to Boost Budget Efficiency by Limiting Overseas Official Travel
Jakarta — Coordinating Minister for Human Empowerment Muhaimin Iskandar has unveiled a new policy aimed at enhancing the efficiency of the state budget by restricting overseas official travel (PDLN) and domestic events organized by government ministries and institutions.
New Policy Aims to Cut Budget Expenditures
Minister Iskandar emphasized that all trips, both domestic and abroad, will be limited. This policy change is designed to contribute to fiscal efficiency, aligning with President Prabowo Subianto’s vision.
“I assure you that all ministries and institutions under my supervision will adhere to the President’s directive,” he stated during a meeting in Jakarta.
Reduction in Domestic Events Announced
Additionally, Minister Iskandar revealed that the number of domestic events organized by state ministries will be significantly reduced.
“Every ministry is currently implementing travel restrictions and minimizing event schedules both domestically and internationally,” Iskandar clarified.
Details of the Policy Outlined in Council Letter
The Ministry of State Secretary has issued a policy regarding overseas travel permits, detailed in Circular Letter number B-32/M/S/LN.00/12/2024. The letter was circulated to all levels of government, including the Red and White Cabinets and regional officials.
Key Points of the Policy
The policy contains five primary directives:
Point 1: Effective and Efficient Travel
The first directive stresses that all overseas travel must be conducted effectively, efficiently, and strategically to support the Asta Cita vision, which aims to improve government performance and regional development.
Point 2: Focus on Substantially Urgent Matters
The second point emphasizes that overseas trips should only be taken when there are pressing matters that cannot be addressed domestically.
Point 3: Limited Participants
The third directive mandates that PDLN activities should involve only a select number of participants, ensuring that every trip is essential and cost-effective.
Point 4: Presidential Approval Required
The fourth requirement specifies that all PDLNs must receive presidential approval, which must be obtained through the Foreign Travel Information System managed by the Ministry of State Secretary.
Point 5: Strict Compliance
The fifth and final point warns officials that conducting PDLN without prior presidential approval will result in full responsibility for any consequences, leading to accountability at the institutional and personal levels.
Implications for Government Officials
These stringent policies will have a significant impact on how government officials conduct their international duties. With limited opportunities to travel abroad, officials will need to prioritize their activities and maximize their impact during each trip.
Minister Iskandar’s statement highlights the government’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and efficient resource allocation. This new policy is expected to streamline government operations and ensure that public funds are used wisely.
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Conclusion
The implementation of the new policy on overseas official travel marks a significant step towards enhancing budget efficiency in Indonesia. By restricting unnecessary trips and focusing on essential activities, the government is demonstrating its commitment to fiscal responsibility and accountability.
This move is likely to have far-reaching implications for government operations, requiring officials to streamline their activities and demonstrate greater effectiveness in their international engagements.
Only time will tell how these new travel restrictions will impact the government’s ability to meet its objectives and maintain its international presence.
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