Jakarta - Chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin Indonesia), Anindya Novyan Bakrie, held an audience with the Minister of Home Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, Muhammad Tito Karnavian, at the Ministry’s office in Central Jakarta on Thursday (August 21, 2025).

The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration between Kadin and regional governments in support of national strategic programs and in boosting regional economic growth.

“Kadin, as a strategic partner of the government, seeks to collaborate with the Ministry of Home Affairs so that the benefits of this partnership can extend all the way to the provincial and district/municipal levels,” said Anindya, who is popularly known as Anin.

Anin explained that several priority programs were discussed during the meeting, including support for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) initiative, the development of the Koperasi Desa Merah Putih (Red and White Village Cooperatives), and the distribution of People's Business Credit (KUR).

He also highlighted the important role of Regional-Owned Enterprises (BUMD).

“While we often hear about SOEs (State-Owned Enterprises) in connection with Danantara (Indonesia’s Sovereign Wealth Fund Management Agency), BUMDs are also essential. Currently, only 40% of BUMDs are profitable, while the remaining 60% require partnerships with the private sector,” Anin noted.

In addition, he stressed the importance of collaboration in maintaining regional inflation.

“For example, although Indonesia’s food security is currently strong with a rice surplus, proper distribution is still necessary to keep inflation under control,” Anin said.

He added that Kadin also aims to support regions whose revenues still heavily rely on transfers from the central government.

“We are identifying which regions still depend on central transfers for their income. Kadin can help invigorate local businesses in these areas so that regional-generated revenue (PAD) can increase,” he added.

Kadin also intends to contribute to improving regional budget absorption.

“There are regions with strong revenues, but with poor budget absorption. This is something we must work to improve,” Anin explained.

As a form of appreciation and encouragement, Anin also announced plans for a joint initiative between Kadin and the Ministry of Home Affairs to launch the Kadin Awards—a recognition program for regional leaders deemed the most business-friendly.

“The Kadin Awards will highlight business-friendly regional leaders. The aim is not just to encourage business growth, but also to help increase local revenue (PAD),” Anin concluded.