TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) revealed infrastructure projects that will start next year. He conveyed the message yesterday, August 16, in his introductory speech on the budget statement and 2018 draft state budget.

“To support the growth of economic centers and development of inter-region connectivity, the government will build 856 kilometers of new roads and 781 kilometers irrigation system,” Jokowi said at the Parliamentary Complex in Jakarta.

Read: Jokowi Speaks About Absolute Power during Plenary Meeting

Other projects will also be launched to improve access to education, health and basic facilities. “Including construction and rehabilitation of 612,000 classrooms, sanitation sewer for 853,000 head of household and 7,062 units of the low-cost apartment,” President Jokowi said.

In his speech, the president called on all Indonesians to cooperate to help realize the development plan.

With Rp761.1 trillion of funds transfer to regions and village funds, President Jokowi expects a synchronization of planning and budgeting to foster financing effectiveness. “Aside from supporting local government activities, the budget will be used to fund priority programs.”

Jokowi said that the funds will be used to improve the quality of public services in regions, create new jobs, eradicate poverty and reduce gaps between regions.

ANGELINA ANJAR SAWITRI