Prabowo forms expert task force to accelerate government policies

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has directed the Minister of Education, Science, and Technology, Brian Yuliarto, to establish a task force focused on accelerating the achievement of the government's strategic policy targets. This new unit will draw upon the nation's intellectual capital, bringing together professors, academics, and researchers from universities and the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN).

Minister Brian Yuliarto explained that the task force will collaborate closely with relevant ministries. The President emphasized the crucial role of science, technology, research, and innovation as foundational elements for Indonesia's progress. He likened the nation to a large ship, requiring all components to work together cohesively. "Different views are normal. The President stated that universities are places for academic freedom. Ideas should be studied and discussed together at universities," Yuliarto said.

The initiative emerged from discussions during a National Gathering on Science, Technology, and Industry. President Prabowo expressed his hope that contributions from the academic community would expedite the strategic policy goals of various ministries. The convention facilitated intensive discussions between participants and ministers, aiming to provide valuable input for national development.

Meanwhile, BRIN Head Arif Satria announced that BRIN and the Ministry of Education are developing a research roadmap extending to 2045. This roadmap will guide future technological development and industrialization, ensuring it is data-driven rather than based on "common sense." Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi added that the research roadmap must align with a grand design and yield positive impacts for society, addressing real-world problems such as waste-to-energy initiatives and the transition from LPG to CNG.