Government Prepares Efficiency Measures to Protect Economy from Global Shock

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – The Indonesian government has begun implementing strategic efficiency measures to protect national economic stability. These measures were taken in response to increasingly challenging global energy price hikes. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, announced the plan in a written press release following a leadership meeting with President Prabowo Subianto at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Thursday, March 19, 2026.

The primary focus of this policy is to keep the national budget deficit below 3 percent. The minister explained that this plan has been finalized through coordination with various relevant ministries.

“We are managing the state budget to ensure the deficit remains below 3 percent, in line with the directives from the Full Cabinet Meeting and as discussed with the technical ministries. This involves efficiency measures across various ministries and agencies. Through these efficiency measures, the 3 percent deficit target can be maintained,” Airlangga said.

As part of this broader strategy, the government will implement cost-saving measures in the energy sector and increase state revenue. This includes maximizing the potential of commodities and accelerating the transition to alternative energy sources through the role of the Danantara Investment Agency.

He explained, “The government is currently reviewing policy adjustments regarding coal export taxes to boost state revenue, in line with the rising trend in coal prices. In the energy sector, the government is pushing for the accelerated conversion of diesel power plants (PLTD) into solar power plants (PLTS).”

Additionally, the government has launched an innovative policy allowing for one day of work from home per week. This policy aims at significantly reducreducing national fuel consumption and will take effect after the 2026 Eid al-Fitr holiday.

“There are savings in terms of gasoline consumption for mobility, and the savings are quite significant, one-fifth of what we usually stated.