Kopdes and MBG Criticized for Fiscal Burden, Purbaya: Deficit Still Under Control

Jakarta - Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa denied criticism that the Kopdes and Free Nutritious Meals or MBG programs burdened the fiscal. He said the state budget deficit could still be controlled below 3 percent of gross domestic product or GDP.

"Our fiscal can still be controlled below 3 percent of GDP," said Purbaya at Halim Perdanakusumah Air Base, Jakarta, Monday (18/5).

Purbaya said the government had calculated the budget needs for MBG and other programs. He ensured that the program did not interfere with other developments.

"Including for MBG, for other programs without disturbing other development programs," he said.

He also said that subsidies, including fuel, had been included in the government's calculations.

"So we arrange it well, including subsidies of all kinds, fuel. So we have calculated carefully," said Purbaya.

According to Purbaya, the criticism that the government's fiscal policy is in disarray is not appropriate. He asked economists to look at Indonesia's deficit and debt position compared to European countries.

"If economists think our fiscal policy is in a mess, they ask to see how much the European countries' policies have a deficit. How much debt," he said.

Purbaya said Indonesia's debt ratio was still around 40 percent of GDP. According to him, the position is still better.

"We are still good, the economist should praise us," said Purbaya.