TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Economic observer from Andalas University (Unand) Padang, West Sumatra, Werry Darta Taifur said that illegal levy practices occurred in a society hamper the economic growth of a region. “Not only in [government] institutions, the government should also eradicate the systematic illegal levy that is formed from the lowest level (of society),” Werry said Wednesday, October 26, 2016.

According to him, the illegal levy practices occurred in society also often happens. The misconducts not only harm the victims but would also indirectly harm the government.

The budget that is used for illegal levy practices and other similar activities, could be redirected to support developments.

Meanwhile, for traders or business people, the eradication of the practice will surely increase their income, either if it is for rent or transport fee. As well as parking retributions which should be collected for the government and not for illegal parking attendants. “If these activities can be erased or reduced, regional incomes would also increase,” Werry said.

Padang Mayor Mahyeldi Ansharullah earlier said that the “Padang Smart City” program is hoped to be able to cut off illegal levy activities. The ease of information and technology in the public service will benefit the society.

ANTARA