Indonesia’s Research Sector Faces Overhaul as New chief prioritizes Consolidation
Jakarta, Indonesia - november 14, 2024 - A sweeping restructuring of Indonesia’s research landscape is underway following the appointment of a new head of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN). The incoming leader is prioritizing consolidation-both within state institutions and with regional governments-in key sectors including food security, energy, healthcare, and environmental sustainability, aligning with the policy agenda of President Prabowo Subianto. The move signals a potential shift in the direction of Indonesian research and development, raising questions about its impact on scientific independence and long-term innovation.
The overhaul comes at a critical juncture for Indonesia’s research sector, which has faced longstanding challenges related to funding, coordination, and bureaucratic inefficiencies.The new strategy aims to streamline efforts and enhance synergy between national and local entities, particularly in areas deemed vital to national priorities. This consolidation effort will involve both “horizontal” integration with other state institutions and “vertical” alignment with regional administrations. The changes are expected to impact researchers,universities,and government agencies involved in scientific and technological advancement across the archipelago.
The new chief is actively pursuing external horizontal consolidation with various state institutions, alongside a vertical one with regional administrations.These efforts specifically target fields such as food,energy,health,and the surroundings,mirroring President Prabowo’s stated policy priorities. The initiative seeks to create a more unified and responsive research ecosystem capable of addressing Indonesia’s pressing national challenges.
