Finance Minister Issues Ultimatum to Customs Office: Reform or Face Consequences

One-Year Deadline for Performance Improvement

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has issued a stern warning to the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC), stating that the office has one year to demonstrate significant improvement in its performance. Failure to meet these expectations could result in the office being completely frozen, with severe consequences for its 16,000 employees who would be laid off.

Context and Implications

The ultimatum was delivered during the KADIN 2025 National Leadership Meeting held at The Park Hyatt Hotel Jakarta. Purbaya emphasized that he has requested a one-year window from President Prabowo Subianto to implement necessary reforms within the customs office. This period is seen as a grace period for the office to rectify its performance issues and avoid more drastic measures.

Potential Impact on Employees

The potential freezing of the DJBC would have significant implications for its workforce. With 16,000 employees at risk of being laid off, the decision to freeze the office would not only affect the employees but also have broader economic and social implications. The threat underscores the seriousness of the performance issues within the customs office and the need for immediate and effective reform.