Prabowo's Call: New Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara Sworn In

Suahasil Nazara was sworn in as Indonesia's new Finance Minister on Monday at the Presidential Palace, appointed by President Prabowo Subianto. The transition saw a notable development as the former minister, Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, was informed of his replacement via a telephone call from the palace while attending a parliamentary meeting. Following his inauguration, Suahasil revealed that President Prabowo had given him a special directive to "maintain the health and credibility of state finances." He emphasized that the State Budget (APBN) must be sound and reliable to support the government's priority programs. Suahasil also expressed his commitment to continuing the work of the Ministry of Finance and striving to foster both economic growth and stability for Indonesia. Suahasil brings extensive experience to the role, having previously served as Deputy Finance Minister in the Red and White Cabinet since his inauguration on October 21, 2024. His prior public service includes roles as Special Assistant to the Minister of Finance for Fiscal Decentralization, Vice Chairman of the Committee for the Supervision of Regional Autonomy Implementation, Coordinator of the Policy Working Group at the National Team for Poverty Reduction Acceleration, and a member of the National Economic Committee. He was appointed Head of the Fiscal Policy Agency on October 31, 2016, and served as Deputy Finance Minister in the Advanced Indonesia Cabinet starting October 25, 2019. Meanwhile, the outgoing minister, Purbaya, was informed of his dismissal during a meeting with the Regional Representative Council (DPD RI). The phone call from the Presidential Palace interrupted his presentation, leading to a temporary suspension of the session. Purbaya's seat was later observed to be empty. This incident has drawn attention to the swift decision-making process and communication protocols during cabinet reshuffles. Source: Detik