President Prabowo Subianto Refutes Claims of Halting Infrastructure Projects, Pledges Greater Role for Private Sector

JAKARTA, investortrust.id – President Prabowo Subianto has rejected allegations that his administration is halting Indonesia’s infrastructure development, instead unveiling plans to transfer the majority of such projects to private enterprises to bolster efficiency and innovation.

Speaking at the National Consolidation Meeting of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) at the Ritz-Carlton Jakarta on Thursday, January 16, 2025. Prabowo addressed the concerns directly.

“There are claims that I’m halting infrastructure projects. That’s not true. I’m not stopping them—I’m making changes. Most infrastructure development will be handed over to the private sector,” he said.

Prabowo defended the decision, citing the private sector’s track record in delivering complex projects. “Private companies are more efficient, more innovative, and more experienced, ladies and gentlemen,” he told the audience of business leaders.

The president also highlighted the strategic role of entrepreneurs and Kadin in sustaining Indonesia’s economic momentum. He pointed to key sectors, including transportation infrastructure, as ripe for private sector engagement.

“Toll roads, ports, airports—I will hand them over to the private sector. Let everyone move forward,” Prabowo added, signaling a shift in the government’s approach to large-scale development.

The policy underscores Prabowo’s broader economic agenda of leveraging private capital and expertise to drive growth while reducing the government’s fiscal burden. The remarks have sparked anticipation among business leaders, though questions remain about regulatory frameworks and safeguards for public interest.