Jakarta (WNAM MONITORING): Indonesia’s Ministry of Defense aims to gradually increase the defense budget from 0.8 percent to 1.5 percent of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) to enhance defense capabilities.
The ministry discussed the planned budget hike during a leadership meeting with representatives of the National Armed Forces (TNI) in Jakarta on Thursday.
“We are projecting an increase in the national defense budget, from 0.8 percent to over one percent, with a possibility of hitting 1.5 percent. The rise will occur gradually,” said Brigadier General Frega Inkiriwang, the ministry’s Head of Information Bureau.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, he emphasized that the defense budget ratio of 1.5 percent of GDP is essential for Indonesia to bolster its defense posture by procuring weapons and equipment, developing defense infrastructure, and enhancing the quality of human resources.
Indonesia’s GDP in 2023 was estimated to reach US$1.37 trillion.
However, Inkiriwang underlined that the government is well aware of the challenges in achieving the projected rise, as it hinges on maintaining a stable economy.
He pointed out that regional gross domestic products (GDPs) would also factor into the government’s capacity to mobilize funds for state spending.
On that note, he stressed the importance of aligning efforts across all state institutions to support government programs aimed at fostering a stronger economy, such as those related to the downstreaming of natural resources and boosting Indonesia’s investment appeal.
He affirmed that the ministry is committed to supporting the implementation of such programs in a bid to protect the country’s sovereignty.
The meeting was attended by Minister of Defense Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto, Army Chief of Staff General Maruli Simanjuntak, Navy Chief of Staff Admiral Muhammad Ali, and Air Force Chief of Staff Marshal Tonny Harjono, among others.
