The Indonesian government has taken significant strides to streamline the process of international travel for its officials, making travel more efficient and relevant to national priorities. A new directive, issued by Minister of State Prasetyo Hadi, outlines stringent regulations governing foreign official trips, widely referred to as Perjalanan Dinas Luar Negeri (PDLN).
This policy arose from directives received from President Prabowo Subianto during consecutive cabinet meetings held on October 23 and November 6, 2024. The official announcement was made on December 26, 2024, emphasizing the importance of improving budget efficiency and government performance related to overseas missions.
"To enable leaders of ministries/agencies/regions to economize on international travel," stated Prasetyo Hadi, as reported by INIKATA.co.id. This policy includes five core principles aimed at ensuring international trips are not only selective but also driven by substantial outcomes aligned with governmental objectives.
First on the new agenda is the imperative for international travel to be both selective and focused on results. "International travel must be selective and outcome-oriented, supporting improved government performance and regional development," Prasetyo added, addressing the need for clarity and precision concerning the objectives of these missions.
The second principle highlights the necessity for trips to only be permitted for urgent activities directly pertinent to national priority programs. This restriction aims to refocus governmental energies on initiatives deemed highly beneficial to Indonesia's progression.
Thirdly, participation numbers for international trips will now face severe limitations. For example, programs for study—ranging from diploma to doctoral levels—will adjust the number of participants based on the individual applications made. Strict caps are also placed on diplomatic and technical activities, where only relatively small groups will be allowed to travel. Prasetyo emphasized, "Activities involving international travel are allowed only for urgent matters related directly to national priority programs," as highlighted by batampos.
Procedures to obtain permits have been outlined more rigorously as part of this policy. Applications must now be submitted at least seven days prior to the intended travel date, accompanied by comprehensive supporting documentation which includes work frameworks, confirmations of individual participation, and financial details. This added layer aims to bolster transparency and accountability within the government process.
For higher-ranking officials, such as ministers and agency heads, requests must include approvals from designated supporting teams, ensuring thorough oversight. There are consequences for neglecting these regulations. If travel occurs without prior approval from the President, the officials involved may find themselves held fully responsible for any ensuing ramifications. Prasetyo reinforced this dangerous loophole, stating, "If the travel is undertaken without prior presidential approval, the head of the relevant ministry, agency, or region will be fully responsible for any consequences," as echoed by PIKIRAN RAKYAT.
Local governments, like the government of Pontianak, have expressed support for this budgetary efficiency initiative. Edi Suryanto, the acting mayor, committed to integrating similar fiscal restraint across the municipal levels of government, asserting, "If there’s no relevance to the welfare of the people, the program will be canceled or diminished." This supports the central directive issued from Jakarta aimed at enhancing overall fiscal responsibility throughout Indonesia.
The hospitality sector is another significant stakeholder reflecting on the anticipated changes. Eddy Chandra, chairman of the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) for West Kalimantan, acknowledged the inevitable effects on local tourism. He remarked, "We are supportive of this policy. It certainly affects the hospitality industry here in Pontianak, knowing the city has yet to become a prime tourist destination, heavily relying on government activities to boost occupancy rates.”
The overarching goal of this tightened travel policy is clear: aligning government activities with national goals effectively, ensuring the accountability of public spending, and focusing on maximizing the benefits derived from international relations. By regulating and refining the bureaucratic procedures surrounding official travel, the Indonesian government aims to create frameworks capable of supporting its strategic aspirations.
While the transition to this level of operational oversight may present short-term challenges—especially for frequently traveling officials—the potential long-term benefits could reinforce the integrity of governmental practices and promote the responsible use of taxpayer funds.
