The Ministry of Communication and Digital Technology Budget Cut by Almost 50%
In a recent meeting with the House of Representatives Commission I, Secretary General of the Ministry of Communication and Digital Technology (Komdigi), Ismail, revealed a significant budget cut of Rp 3.84 trillion, amounting to 49.57% of the total budget allocation for 2025, which stands at Rp 7.72 trillion. This move comes in response to the president’s directive in 2025 and a letter from the Ministry of Finance regarding the efficiency of ministry and agency spending under the 2025 State Budget.
Ismail emphasized the need for this budget adjustment to align with the efficiency objectives outlined by the government. He stated, “Komdigi has adjusted its budget by cutting expenses by Rp 3.84 trillion, equivalent to 49.57% of the 2025 budget allocation.”
Despite the budget reduction, Ismail expressed hope that the quality of public services provided by Komdigi would not be compromised. These services include the provision of telecommunications infrastructure, base transceiver stations (BTS), internet access, Palapa Ring, and services related to the management of radio frequency spectrum and satellite orbits.
Furthermore, Ismail outlined key digital human capital development initiatives that would be impacted by the efficiency measures. These programs include digital literacy, digital talent scholarships, Master’s and Doctoral scholarships, facilitation of the digital economy, and public communication efforts.
Ismail also revealed that priority programs potentially affected by the efficiency measures were being coordinated with the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Indonesia. The aim is to support the president’s directives through strategic efforts to ensure that digitalization programs have a direct impact on society.
To achieve these objectives, Komdigi plans to prioritize its work programs, refocus its budget, and thoroughly review existing projects. Ismail acknowledged the possibility of requesting additional budget allocations from non-tax revenue (PNBP) sources and the use of BLU cash balances, particularly to fund operations and maintenance, infrastructure, and programs that support the nation’s development goals.
In a plea for support from the House of Representatives Commission I, Ismail requested approval for the budget efficiency measures and proposed additional budget allocations for 2025. This includes an additional budget injection of Rp 280 billion from the State Revenue and Expenditure Account (PHLN) to fund the completion of the Cikarang National Digital Park project, which will soon be submitted to the Ministry of Finance.
Efficiency Measures Impacting Public Services
Despite facing a significant budget cut of nearly 50%, the Ministry of Communication and Digital Technology (Komdigi) remains committed to delivering essential public services without compromising quality. Ismail, the Secretary General of Komdigi, emphasized the importance of maintaining services related to telecommunications infrastructure, digital literacy, and the facilitation of the digital economy. He assured stakeholders that efforts were underway to ensure that essential programs continue to benefit the public, even amidst financial constraints.
