Budget Efficiency

The government decided on budget efficiency of IDR 306.69 trillion in 2025. This decision sparked debate. Minister of Finance Sri Mulyani emphasized that this step aims to strengthen the long-term economy. However, behind this noble goal, a big question arises: Does this savings have an impact on the welfare of the community?

Because the impact has already been felt. As many as 18,000 employees were laid off because their work contracts were not extended. PUPR Minister Dody Hanggodo stated that this was part of an effort to transform the bureaucracy into sleeker. Even institutions such as TVRI and RRI almost did the same thing, even though it was eventually canceled. However, thousands of employees are now facing uncertainty, especially in the midst of inflationary pressures.

This budget efficiency step also cuts the budget in several ministries. The Ministry of Finance, for example, cut Rp8.99 trillion, while the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education was affected which might disrupt strategic programs. The DPR also warned that this policy threatens the sustainability of honorary and first aid workers.

At the regional level, the impact of this policy is also felt. Adinil Zetra from Andalas University emphasized the importance of understanding different regional capacities. Mentawai Regency cannot be compared to Padang City,' he said as quoted by Antara. This inequality can get worse if efficiency does not consider local needs.

Mohamad Fadhil Hasan from INDEF as published in the media, highlighted the impact of this policy on macro levels. According to him, even though there is a shift in budget allocations from administrative needs to priority programs such as free nutritious meals, this policy still has a risk of reducing people's purchasing power. Economist from Paramadina University, Wijayanto Samirin, quoted from Kontan, said that this cuts could slow economic growth.

Especially in the field of education, the Minister of Education and Culture guarantees that priority programs will continue. However, with a significant reduction in budget, is this promise realistic? Education, as a future investment, now faces tough challenges.

Efficiency policy also gave birth to the Work From Anywhere (WFA) concept in several agencies. Although it sounds modern, many doubt its effectiveness. Criticism arises, ranging from potential abuse of facilities to low productivity.

The free nutritious food program worth IDR 171 trillion in the first year is also in the spotlight. It feels like we're okay with this program. However, what if children get free nutritious meals while their parents lose their jobs due to budget efficiency policies?

We have seen the impact of policies without careful planning, such as limiting the sale of 3 kg LPG. In just a few days, the policy triggers long queues to casualties. This efficiency policy, if not managed carefully, can present similar risks.

However, budget efficiency is not entirely bad. If it is planned and executed properly, this policy could be a momentum for bureaucratic reform and more inclusive development. However, without transparency and in-depth evaluation, this step will only be a bomb of time waiting to explode.

Decisions are in the hands of the government. The public only hopes that the promise of fair budget efficiency will actually be realized, not adding to new problems.