National Development Minister Denies Cancellation of Strategic Projects, Including Jakarta-Surabaya High-Speed Rail

JatimVoice.com – National Development Planning Minister and Head of Bappenas, Prof. Rachmat Pambudy, firmly denied rumors of cancellations for several national strategic projects, including the Jakarta–Surabaya high-speed rail.  

Source: suarajatimpost

Rachmat assured that all central government development plans remain on track, even suggesting that questions be directed to East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa for confirmation.  

He made the statement after delivering a briefing at the 2025–2030 East Java Development Planning Meeting (Musrenbang RPJMD) and the 2025 Regional Work Plan (RKPD) at Shangri-La Hotel Surabaya on Tuesday (29/4/2025).  

The event was attended by regional leaders, East Java’s security and development coordination board, ministry representatives, and international development partners.  

“There is no cancellation of the project—just ask Mrs. Khofifah,” he said, referring to the East Java governor.  

Rachmat stressed that the central government opposes stalled or arbitrarily canceled projects, emphasizing development continuity as key to public welfare and national economic growth.  

“All programs and development plans must proceed. For the people’s prosperity,” he asserted.  

Rachmat highlighted that national development success hinges on regional achievements, citing East Java as a leading example of performance and progress.  

“Why? Because Indonesia’s development depends on its regions,” he explained.  

He underscored local governments’ critical role in addressing strategic issues like poverty, unemployment, and economic growth, noting that job creation and investment require active regional leadership.  

“Poverty reduction starts in regions, economic acceleration begins locally, job creation happens in regions, and investments are regional,” he elaborated.  

The Bappenas chief commended East Java’s synergy between provincial government and local legislatures, noting their programs align with President Prabowo Subianto’s national vision.  

“[They] agree with the central government and the President’s mission,” said Rachmat.  

The praise reinforced his assurance that strategic projects—including those in East Java—will proceed as planned. However, he cautioned that execution must be monitored to prevent delays or abandonment.