Surabaya. President Prabowo Subianto has criticized the misuse of state funds on unnecessary trips and seminars, explaining his administration's recent push for stringent budget efficiency measures. He said the current austerity efforts are aimed at eliminating non-essential expenditures that offer minimal benefit to the people.

"What do we expect to learn from a comparative study on poverty alleviation in Australia, which is one of the world’s 10 richest nations?" Prabowo said during an event hosted by the Muslim organization Nahdlatul Ulama in Surabaya.

"I’m done with those studies and focus group discussions. What else do we need to discuss? Let’s work to address absolute poverty -- for hungry people, get them food," he added.

The president has issued a decree mandating efficiency measures across both central and regional government budgets to save Rp 306 trillion ($18.7 billion). The savings will be redirected to priority programs, including his flagship initiative to provide free meals for school-aged children and expectant mothers.

However, some elements within the government oppose his policies, the president noted without specifying names.

"There are people who are against me. Some in our bureaucracy think that they are immune from the law and act like small kings," Prabowo said.

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