6th RI President Calls Regional Heads 'Bridge Builders'

The 6^th President of the Republic of Indonesia, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, emphasized the crucial role of regional heads as "bridge builders" during a discussion with National Figures at the 4^th Regional Leader Consolidation Course (KPPD) on Monday (September 7).

"Indonesia is a unitary state that adheres to a system of deconcentration of power and decentralization of government. Therefore, this forum is excellent," the 6^th President stated. He added that regional leaders must serve as the primary bridge translating central government policies to the public, while also elevating the community's hopes and hardships to higher authorities. While acknowledging the inherent difficulty of this dual mandate, he stressed that it remains an absolute obligation for local leaders.

The former head of state further highlighted the critical necessity of balanced national development across both sectoral and regional lines. He explained that ministries and non-ministerial government agencies drive sectoral development, while local governments execute regional development.

"Both must succeed, and both must be provided with adequate resources to advance the community. Whether through a regional or sectoral development approach, both must succeed equally. It cannot be lopsided," he asserted.

Achieving this balance, he noted, requires seamless communication and cooperation among all stakeholders. The 6^th President advised that all parties must be fully empowered to execute national development, including the allocation of proportional budgets. All parties must clearly communicate their needs to prevent rivalry.

"There must be no deadlocks, and there must be no bottlenecks in communication," the 6th President concluded. He reiterated that maintaining open, active lines of communication and bridging diverse needs are key to achieving genuine public welfare. (NA/CHP/DA)