Jokowi Increases Special Autonomy Budget

President Joko Widodo set a special autonomy fund (autonomy) for Papua and West Papua Provinces in the 2021 State Revenue and Expenditure Budget Draft (RAPBN 2021) amounting to IDR 7.8 trillion. This figure is an increase from the 2020 Revised State Budget, which is IDR 7.6 trillion.

In accordance with the mandate of the law, the allocation of special autonomy funds for the provinces of Papua and West Papua is equivalent to two percent of the total national general allocation fund ceiling (DAU) and is valid for 20 years.

The Special Autonomy Fund is also directed to finance the development and maintenance of infrastructure, empowerment of the people's economy, poverty alleviation, as well as education, social and health funding.

He suggested that it be more optimal in terms of use, create a special institution that manages funds. If not, it is hoped that the regional government that receives the funds will actually use the funds according to their allocation so that the benefits are truly felt by the Papuan people. Abisai explained that what has been good from the implementation of Otsus must be maintained.

He hopes that the special autonomy funds can actually be directed to traditional villages, indigenous Papuans. The native Papuans, who want to study both domestically and abroad, can get convenience. If necessary, create a special hospital with special autonomy funds so that residents no longer have to pay expenses if they are sick.

Special Autonomy was achieved from an extraordinary political situation, in order to produce a win-win solution, that the state is present and pays more attention to Papua, through special regulatory instruments and budget support with a focus on improving the quality of life, health, education, local-based economy, and infrastructure.

Through the Special Autonomy Fund, education funds are almost double the stipulated amount, reaching 37 percent. Likewise the health budget to increase life expectancy.