JAKARTA - In the midst of the government's ambition to strengthen regional infrastructure and economy, a major challenge arises from the automotive sector. Robby Ferliansyah, Secretary General of A Salvo Indonesia and national automotive observer, emphasized that the key to economic equalization in the regions does not lie in ordinary passenger cars, but in the robustness of four-wheel drive vehicles (4x4).
On an exclusive occasion, Robby dissected the urgency of changing the paradigm in the use of the State Budget for the procurement of official and commercial vehicles.
One of the crucial points highlighted is the inequality of the tax scheme. Currently, 4x4 vehicles in Indonesia are still considered a luxury item with a price tag that far exceeds the 4x2 variant.
"The road conditions in the area are varied, ranging from smooth asphalt, gravel, to hilly land. 4x2 cars are often inadequate. We need to look at Thailand, where 4x4 vehicles are very popular for commercial needs because the price is reasonable," said Robby, in a written statement, Friday, February 27.
A Salvo encourages the government to review the 4x4 vehicle tax. The goal is clear: lower the price threshold so that people in remote areas can reach vehicles that they really need to turn the wheels of the economy.
Answering doubts about production capacity, Robby pointed to an often overlooked industry fact. Daihatsu's factory in Sunter, for example, has long produced units that are global.
Gran Max / Toyota Town Ace: This vehicle is produced in Indonesia and exported to Japan with a 4x4 drive system.
Advantages: Spare parts are abundant, the engine is stubborn, and it is already very well known by the community.
Capacity: The domestic industry is believed to be able to meet the quota of up to 440,000 units of 4x4 vehicles if regulations support.
Furthermore, A Salvo provided a radical but strategic option regarding the use of the state budget. Instead of state funds flowing for imports, Robby suggested that the government "force" local manufacturers to mass-produce 4x4 units domestically, or even revive the legend that had disappeared.
"This is a momentum to restore the glory of Texmaco with its PERKASA Trucks. We used to have a very tough and strong vehicle in its time. Why don't we bring it back to life?" he said.
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