Indonesia's Finance Ministry Representation at BI Board Meeting

Clarification on Vice Minister's Attendance

Vice Finance Minister Thomas Djiwandono made a notable appearance at Bank Indonesia's Board of Governors Meeting on November 19, 2025. This attendance was promptly clarified by Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, stating that Djiwandono's presence was within the legal framework and not meant to exert undue influence on BI's monetary policy decisions. The clarification was made during a press interaction at Westin Hotel, Jakarta Selatan, on November 20, 2025.

Regulatory Context and Implications

The existing regulatory framework permits government representation at BI's Board meetings, providing a formal channel for coordination between the government and the central bank. Purbaya emphasized that such participation is allowed by law and serves as a mechanism for maintaining alignment between fiscal and monetary policies. The attendance was characterized as a routine coordination effort rather than an attempt to influence BI's independent decision-making process.

Significance of the Meeting

The Rapat Dewan Gubernur (RDG) is a critical mechanism through which BI determines key monetary policy parameters, including interest rates. The meeting attended by Djiwandono would have discussed various macroeconomic factors influencing Indonesia's financial stability and growth. While the specific outcomes of the meeting were not detailed in the minister's statement, the presence of a high-ranking finance ministry official underscores the importance of inter-institutional coordination in managing the economy.