DPRD member urges better planning as massive unpaid bills raise questions about provincial fiscal health

A staggering Rp282 billion (SGD 22.84 million) in delayed payments by the Riau Islands Provincial Government (Pemprov Kepri) has raised concerns among regional lawmakers. Member of the Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) Suhadi has called for a comprehensive review of the province’s 2024 financial management, stressing the need for clear priorities and fiscal discipline.

The financial warning follows the official accountability report from the Governor of Kepri, received by DPRD in late March. The report revealed the payment backlog, which Suhadi said reflects poor anticipation of declining national fund transfers. He argued that while external factors contributed, internal planning failures worsened the impact.

Suhadi emphasized that Pemprov Kepri must measure performance against concrete outcomes like economic growth, targeted social aid, and infrastructure delivery. “We need to know the government’s real priorities,” he said. Without strategic direction, budget allocation risks becoming fragmented and ineffective, especially amid growing public demands for transparency.

Untapped Revenue Potential

The lawmaker also highlighted the province’s untapped revenue sources. He noted that regional-owned enterprises (BUMD), which should significantly contribute to local income, have yet to meet expectations. He called for strategic reforms to boost BUMD performance, warning that continued underperformance would keep Kepri fiscally constrained.

Having served for six months in the DPRD, Suhadi said his focus remains on scrutinizing budget use and ensuring that public funds benefit the community. “Too many potential sources remain dormant. We must use every rupiah effectively,” he stressed. He also pushed for strict evaluation of all regional office (OPD) programs to avoid future arrears.

Suhadi’s critique has amplified the urgency for Kepri’s government to revamp its financial planning and public accountability. As regional debt rises, effective leadership and transparent governance will be key to preventing future fiscal instability and restoring public confidence.

Sources: Batam News (2025), Batam Pos (2025)

Keywords: Kepri Government Debt, Payment Arrears Kepri, Suhadi DPRD Kepri, Kepri Budget Review