Jusuf Kalla Calls for Proportionality in Budget Efficiency, Questions Ministerial Salary Cuts
Jakarta, Indonesia – Former Vice Presidents Jusuf Kalla (JK) has emphasized the need for a proportional approach to budget efficiency policies, particularly regarding discussions of cutting ministerial salaries. JK made these remarks after attending Eid al-Fitr prayers at the Al Azhar Grand Mosque Square in Jakarta on Saturday, March 22, 2026.
Ministerial Salaries Compared to Other Officials
JK argued that the current salary of a minister, approximately Rp. 19 million (roughly $1,250 USD as of March 22, 2026), is relatively modest when compared to the compensation of officials in other sectors.
“The minister’s salary is only around Rp. 19 million. If you cut it again, how much will you receive?” JK stated.
He contrasted ministerial salaries with those of executives in State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN) and members of the DPR (Indonesia’s House of Representatives), noting that they generally earn significantly more.
Operational Costs vs. Allowances
JK clarified that ministers do not receive allowances, contrary to public perception. He explained that ministers primarily receive operational costs to support their duties.
“There are no allowances. There are only operational costs, that’s all,” he emphasized.
Government’s Budget Efficiency Efforts
The discussion around potential salary cuts for state officials, including ministers, comes as the Indonesian government seeks ways to improve budget efficiency amid increasing global economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Minister of Finance Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa is scheduled to determine the percentage of cuts to ministry and agency budgets on Thursday, March 19, 2026, as a measure to ensure the efficient use of the State Revenue and Expenditure Budget (APBN).
Support for Salary Cuts
Minister of Finance Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa expressed support for the proposal to cut ministerial salaries, viewing it as a demonstration of solidarity and a concrete step towards reducing government spending. “Agree. Oh, that’s decent. If that’s good,” the Minister of Finance said in response to questions about the plan.
(between/wis)