DPD speaker calls for equitable development on Indonesia's I-Day

  Speaker of the Regional Representatives Council (DPD), Sultan B. Najamudin, has called for inclusive and equitable development that reaches even the most remote communities, in commemoration of Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day.

“True independence is only realized when all citizens—including those in underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost (3T) regions—have access to economic opportunity, healthcare, and adequate infrastructure,” he stated in a press release on Monday.

To this end, Najamudin affirmed the DPD’s commitment to supporting the implementation of the President Prabowo's Asta Cita programs aimed at achieving equitable development.

He noted that one of the DPD’s legislative priorities is to include the Regional Government Bill in the Priority Legislation Program, viewing it as a critical tool to strengthen regional autonomy and governance.

“The bill must ensure fiscal equalization, improved delivery of basic services, and active community participation in development,” he remarked.

Highlighting the importance of synergy between central and regional governments, Najamudin stressed the need for integrated efforts across economic, health, and infrastructure sectors.

“We must promote inclusive investment, empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), expand access to essential healthcare, and accelerate the development of roads, ports, and digital connectivity,” he said.

He further emphasized that political freedom must be accompanied by social justice and environmental sustainability.

Indonesia’s development, he argued, must be guided by principles of sustainability, especially in the face of the global climate crisis.

“Our democracy must be substantive, not merely procedural. It should serve the interests of local communities, ecological preservation, and future generations,” he asserted.

Najamudin concluded by urging all stakeholders to work together to realize a meaningful independence.