Prabowo's presidency is marked by strategic policy trade-offs, according to expert analysis. One year in, Arya Fernandes highlights three key areas of focus. Firstly, the administration's stance on policy continuity is under scrutiny. Despite campaign promises, the government is now prioritizing new initiatives, diverging from the previous administration's programs. This shift is evident in the allocation of resources and the introduction of fresh policies. Secondly, the government's spending priorities have shifted. While infrastructure development was a major focus during Jokowi's presidency, Prabowo's administration is now directing more funds towards social redistribution programs, with a populist twist. These include initiatives like free nutritious meals, cooperative projects, and educational reforms. Additionally, defense spending has increased, indicating a focus on military modernization. Lastly, the balance of power between central and regional governments is a critical trade-off. The central government now holds more authority, with local governments relying heavily on fiscal transfers. This centralization is evident in the management of strategic programs, such as the Free Nutritious Meal program, which is entirely controlled by the central authority. These trade-offs present an intriguing challenge for Prabowo's presidency, requiring careful navigation to balance policy continuity, spending priorities, and regional authority.
