Prabowo, who could not attend the summit in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, replied to questions posed by the founder of Bridgewater Associates, Ray Dalio, regarding the low levels of education, research and development, and innovation in Indonesia caused by corruption.
"Our root problem is some kind of degrading moral leadership or social leadership. In addition, the level of corruption in my country is very worrying," he stated, as quoted from a video broadcast of the World Government Summit on Friday.
Hence, the president is eager to channel all his resources to overcome the issue of corruption, viewing it as a disease and the root of all declining performance in various sectors.
He communicated his firm stance on eradicating corruption and maladministration at the forum.
In his view, it takes courage to realize a clean government and to admit that corruption is a weakness and deficiency within the country.
After 100 days of running the government, the president highlighted the high level of public satisfaction with the government's performance, which reached 81 percent, surpassing his winning percentage in the presidential election.
He believes that the public understands the government's efforts and that no individual is above the law.
"We have proven that no one is immune to the law. Those who are considered untouchable are now being held accountable," he remarked.
He then mentioned that the public has felt the impact of all forms of corruption, such as misuse of government funds, embezzlement, and low taxes for businessmen.
Consequently, he initiated a budget efficiency policy under which the government cut USD20 billion in funds for ministries and institutions and allocated these funds for strategic and sustainable projects.
"After 100 days, I managed to save USD20 billion. If I did not save the money, it would only disappear. I faced some resistance from the entrenched bureaucracy. Some of them consider themselves untouchable, but I am willing to work and uphold the law," he stated.
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Translator: Mentari Dwi G, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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