"As a result of the economic model we made, I see no funding problems for the next five years," Pandjaitan remarked at the launch of Ocean Accounts here on Friday.
Citing an economic study conducted by the ministry, Pandjaitan remarked that the government can allocate up to Rp612 trillion, or US$37.5 million, per year with the assumption of a budget deficit of 2.5 percent.
The minister noted that the budget can be allocated for the nutritious lunch program and development of the new capital city, including completing the construction of the Sumatra Toll Road.
"We can allocate Rp612 trillion per year and use it for completing the Sumatra toll road, for nutritious lunch, for the IKN program, and so on. Hence, there is nothing to worry about," the minister remarked.
He explained that to support budget availability, the government is making varied efforts, such as ensuring efforts are made to improve government technology, intensifying tax payments, and making sure that no one evades or forgets to pay their taxes.
He is optimistic that the IKN and the nutritious lunch program would be fully realized, although President-elect Prabowo Subianto would be the one making the final decision.
"In my opinion, nutritious lunch is a good program," he affirmed.
Program Director of the Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (INDEF) Eisha Maghfiruha Rachbini stated during a public discussion on Thursday (July 4) that the government should focus on maturing debt, especially for the next government program.
Based on the Finance Ministry's data as of April 30, 2024, the government's debt of Rp800.33 trillion, or around US$49.1 million, is set to mature in 2025.
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Translator: Dewa W, Kenzu
Editor: Tia Mutiasari
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