Heaptalk, Jakarta — President Prabowo Subianto has instructed his Kabinet Merah Putih ministers to eliminate technical regulations issued by ministries. He emphasized that rules implemented in the field should be based solely on Presidential Decrees. This directive was highlighted during a Q&A session with economists and business leaders at the Economic Forum held at Menara Mandiri, Central Jakarta, on Tuesday (April 8, 2025).
“For licensing matters, I ask all ministers—don’t hesitate. I ask this for the people. Sometimes, these bureaucrats- let me warn them—still come up with new things. Even after a Presidential Decree has been issued, they create another regulation. What do they call it? Technical regulations. Sometimes, the technical regulations are even stricter than the Presidential Decree itself,” said President Prabowo during the Q&A session.
The President further asserted that any technical regulations issued by ministries must receive prior approval from the President of the Republic of Indonesia. This is part of his broader effort to streamline bureaucracy and simplify rules on the ground.
“There will be no more such regulation. The President of the Republic of Indonesia must approve any technical regulation issued by a ministry. Make it simple,” he added.
President Prabowo urged his administration to remove unreasonable regulations and instructed them to simplify all procedures and rules, especially those affecting businesses.
“So here’s the point—please inform us of any poor implementation. We will act immediately. I’ve drawn a line for all cabinet members: operations must be efficient first. Second, remove all illogical regulations. Simplify them. Make all processes easier for businesses,” he said.
The Head of State also called for internal reflection among ministries and institutions, particularly regarding import practices. He stressed that any actions that harm the state or the people must be stopped.
“We need to reflect. Our institutions must be fixed. Customs—must be cleaned up, no more misconduct. Stop inventing unnecessary procedures that cause delays. Smuggling must be eradicated. It threatens our industries, our people, and their livelihoods,” the President emphasized.
He also underlined the importance of accountability for all government officials regarding the policies they implement. In addition, he warned against worsening the current economic situation and stated firmly that any state official involved in smuggling must face the strongest possible sanctions.
“I have spoken repeatedly with all senior officials. We must improve the situation. Our people are still struggling. Please don’t participate in practices that will end up harming our citizens. This is a warning,” President Prabowo said in his closing remarks to the attending economists.
During the session, the President expressed his appreciation to the economists and business leaders in attendance for their insights and recommendations. He also encouraged them to report any discrepancies or irregularities in implementing policies on the ground.
