New History of Collaboration between Central and Regional Governments to Accelerate National Development
By: Fajar Dwi Santoso
The simultaneous inauguration of 961 regional heads at the State Palace on Thursday (20/2) became a new historical record in regional governance in Indonesia. President Prabowo Subianto took the oath of office of the regional leaders in a monumental procession that marked a new beginning for synergy between the central and regional governments.
For the first time, the inauguration of regional heads was carried out simultaneously at the Presidential Palace, a step that marked a new chapter in the coordinative relationship between the center and regions. In the solemn procession, 33 governors and deputy governors, 363 regents and deputy regents, and 85 mayors and deputy mayors officially carried out the mandate to lead their respective regions.
Deputy for Protocol, Press, and Media of the Presidential Secretariat Yusuf Permana explained that this inauguration was a symbol of the government’s commitment to strengthening efficient and integrated governance. This simultaneous implementation not only creates a historic momentum, but also becomes an important part of efforts to synchronize national policies with regional programs.
In Riau Province, Acting Governor Rahman Hadi gave an important message to all employees of the Riau Provincial Government (Pemprov). He emphasized the importance of full support from all elements of government in making the vision and mission of the elected regional head a success. According to him, readiness to face the leadership transition is the main key in ensuring the sustainability of regional development that is in line with national policies.
Rahman Hadi also reminded that adjusting regional programs with national programs, especially those that have been prepared in accordance with the Astacita framework, is a strategic step that cannot be ignored. Riau Provincial Government employees are asked to work professionally, efficiently, and effectively in carrying out their duties, while providing full support for the implementation of development programs in the province.
“Every state civil servant is obliged to support, carry out duties and functions professionally, efficiently, and effectively according to our capacity,” he said. He added that the success of the development program is highly dependent on the solidarity and dedication of all regional apparatuses.
Meanwhile, the inauguration procession at the State Palace took place with tight security. The Presidential Security Forces (Paspampres) were deployed to oversee the event, especially in the area around the National Monument (Monas) which is the gathering point for regional heads before entering the State Palace. The regional heads were gathered in a large white tent in the Monas area, where they underwent a series of strict checks before taking part in the inauguration procession.
Paspampres implemented strict security protocols, including restrictions on carry-on items and the number of companions allowed to enter the inauguration area. Items such as lighters, cell phones, and bags were prohibited from being brought in to ensure the smooth and orderly running of the event. This rule applies not only to the regional heads, but also to their companions, who must show an official invitation and go through a baggage check.
This inauguration symbolizes the beginning of the journey of the new regional government, which is expected to be able to collaborate closely with the central government in realizing equitable and sustainable development. The Prabowo-Gibran government appears to be placing special attention on strengthening this synergy, with the hope that the acceleration of regional development will become a driving force for national economic growth.
For a region like Riau, which has great potential in the plantation, energy, and tourism sectors, collaboration with the central government is a necessity. Rahman Hadi emphasized that all Riau Provincial Government employees must have the same spirit in supporting the elected regional head so that development programs run according to plan and provide real benefits to the community.
With this inauguration, new hopes have grown in the community. They are waiting for concrete steps from the newly inaugurated regional heads to bring about real positive change, build infrastructure, improve welfare, and ensure that every regional policy is in line with the direction of national development.
This historic moment is not only about formal inauguration, but also a reflection of a new spirit in coordinated and integrated governance. The Prabowo-Gibran government, through this strategic step, shows its commitment to presenting a strong, solid government that is able to answer the challenges of the times with innovation and close cooperation between the center and regions.
