Jakarta. Economists and business leaders have called on the government to sharpen its demand-side strategy and ensure policy consistency as Indonesia navigates its post-reshuffle economic agenda under President Prabowo Subianto.

Speaking at the B-Universe Forum Group Discussion on Wednesday, economist Aviliani said the cabinet reshuffle, particularly the appointment of new Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, could open up fresh economic opportunities. She said the Rp16.23 trillion ($1 billion) stimulus program and the Rp 200 trillion liquidity injection into five state-owned banks (Himbara) could help revive manufacturing and generate broader growth.

“With a new finance minister, there is potential for breakthroughs that other ministries should follow,” she said, while stressing the importance of governance and public oversight to prevent mismanagement of large budgets.

On Wednesday, President Prabowo Subianto reshuffled his cabinet for the second time this month, naming former State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) chief Erick Thohir as Youth and Sports Minister. Earlier this month, Prabowo had replaced Finance Minister Sri Mulyani with Purbaya.

Aviliani also urged the government to move beyond short-term demand incentives and begin strengthening labor empowerment and private sector participation.

“From 2026, the government should give more space for state-owned enterprises, private firms, and communities, while focusing on clearing bureaucratic bottlenecks,” she said. With the right policy mix and oversight, she projected Indonesia’s economy could grow by 6 percent.

Economist Ryan Kiryanto said stimulus must not only avert a slowdown but also drive growth. “Strong governance is essential to avoid policy uncertainty,” he said.

Presidential Communications Office adviser Fitra Faisal outlined the $1 billion stimulus program, which includes job training, tax breaks, food aid, and infrastructure projects. The package is expected to create 3.5 million jobs.

Apindo Vice Chairman Sanny Iskandar pushed for streamlined regulations to strengthen investor confidence, while Aviliani emphasized that programs must continue beyond 2025 to help SMEs scale up.

House Commission XI lawmaker Kamrussamad said stimulus funds should focus more on productive sectors. “The issue is not just financing, it’s demand. Businesses need certainty to plan,” he concluded.

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