The administration of President Prabowo Subianto has recently launched a budget efficiency policy aimed at redirecting funds to priority programs, such as providing free nutritious meals for school children and vulnerable groups. However, this policy has received mixed responses from various parties.

Supporters of this policy argue that budget cuts in non-essential areas can create opportunities for allocating larger amounts of funds to social programs that directly impact the welfare of society. One example is the free nutritious meal program, which is intended for 82.5 million beneficiaries and is expected to improve children's nutritional status and support their education, as reported by the Financial Times (14/02/2025).

On the other hand, there is criticism regarding the impact of the budget cuts on critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Andy Fefta Wijaya, a public policy expert from Brawijaya University, cautioned that budget efficiency should be carried out carefully and selectively to avoid disrupting essential public services, as quoted by Jatimtimes (14/02/2025).

The budget efficiency policy also affects the operations of the Civil Servant Apparatus (ASN). According to a report from Bisnis.com, President Prabowo has instructed the reduction of flexible working hours, limits on official travel, and energy-saving measures in government offices. The head of the National Civil Service Agency (BKN), Zudan Arif Fakrulloh, stated that civil servants need to adjust to a more efficient work scheme to support the implementation of this policy.

The budget efficiency policy implemented by Prabowo Subianto's administration aims to improve public welfare through vital social programs. However, it is crucial to ensure that budget cuts do not disrupt essential public services and do not negatively affect economic growth. A measured and selective approach in managing budget efficiency will be key to the success of this policy.