Muzani: No Problem Foreigners Leading SOEs As Long As The Rules

MPR Chairman Ahmad Muzani/DOK PHOTO: Nailin In Saroh-VOI

JAKARTA - MPR Chairman Ahmad Muzani assessed that it would not be a problem if foreign nationals led state-owned enterprises (BUMN), as long as this was in accordance with the provisions of the applicable laws and regulations.

"As far as the regulations allow, I don't think there is a problem as long as the regulations allow," said Muzani as quoted by ANTARA, Friday, October 17.

He said the government implemented policies based on the rules that had been mutually agreed upon. Therefore, if regulations allow, the appointment of SOE leaders from foreign circles can be carried out.

However, if it is not regulated or not allowed, the policy should not be taken.

Muzani emphasized the importance of upholding regulations and legal agreements that are the basis for government administration.

He also believes that President Prabowo Subianto's administration is committed to complying with all statutory provisions in every policy implemented.

"Once again, the laws and regulations are a mutual agreement that we make and we must uphold together, and I think Prabowo's government is a government that is determined to obey it all," he said.

Previously, President Prabowo Subianto in a dialogue with Forbes Media Group Main Leader Steve Forbes, in Jakarta, Wednesday (15/10), revealed that BUMN can currently be led by foreigners.

"I have changed the regulations. Now the expatriate, non-Indonesian people have been able to lead our SOEs," said Prabowo.

Prabowo even said that he had spoken to Danantara's management, and invited them to find talented foreigners who could lead SOEs.

"I am talking to Danantara management to manage companies with international business standards. You can find the best people, the best talent," he said.

Meanwhile, PT Garuda Indonesia (Persero) has appointed two foreigners as its directors, namely the Director of Finance and Risk Management of Balagopal Kunduvara, and Director of Transformation Neil Raymond Mills.

Their appointment was based on the decision of the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders (EGMS) on October 15, 2025.