Government's Customs Freeze Threat Sparks Reform Initiatives

Call for Comprehensive Institutional Reform

The Indonesian government's recent warning to potentially freeze the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC) has triggered strong reactions from economists and industry experts. This development is seen as a potential turning point for the beleaguered institution, which has faced numerous public criticisms regarding its performance and integrity.

Proposed Reform Measures

Economists, including Bhima Yudhistira from the Center of Economic and Law Studies (Celios), argue that the government's warning needs to be followed by decisive actions to restore public trust. The proposed formation of a special task force for customs reform would include key stakeholders such as the Finance Minister, external experts, and private sector representatives. This diverse composition is crucial for ensuring the objectivity and transparency of the reform process.

Addressing Systemic Issues

The need for reform at DJBC is driven by persistent issues that have plagued the institution. By establishing a comprehensive reform mechanism, the government aims to address these systemic problems effectively. The proposed task force would be instrumental in devising and implementing reform strategies that could lead to significant improvements in DJBC's operations and public perception.

Path Forward

The government's firm stance, as emphasized by President Prabowo Subianto's warning, signals a strong commitment to institutional reform. The success of these initiatives will depend on the effective implementation of the proposed reforms and the ability of the task force to drive meaningful change within the organization.