The principles of sharia economics are in line with the pro-people program promoted by President Prabowo Subianto through Asta Cita. This was stated by the Minister of Finance and Chairman of the Indonesian Association of Islamic Economists (IAEI) during his speech at the Leaders Insight National Symposium on Islamic Economics and Finance: Reflections on Indonesia's 80th Independence Day in 2025, held in Jakarta on Wednesday (August 13).
Sri Mulyani said that the founders' vision of creating justice, prosperity, and sovereignty remains relevant today, and these values align with the essence of Islamic economics. “The substance of justice at the core of Asta Cita is highly consistent with Islamic economics,” she said.
She explained that the State Budget (APBN) is an important instrument for achieving social justice, including through social protection programs for 10 million beneficiary families of the Family Hope Program, food aid for 18 million families, subsidies for SMEs, and improved access to health and education, such as public schools.
Sri Mulyani also highlighted the importance of food and energy security to maintain national sovereignty. Fertilizer subsidies, agricultural tools, seeds, and the development of fishing villages are part of the government's strategy to strengthen these sectors.
In terms of Islamic economic development, the government is promoting three main pillars: the halal value chain, Islamic finance, and social funds and inclusive literacy. Sri Mulyani emphasized the need for a strategy to integrate Islamic values into various programs, such as the Merah Putih cooperative, free nutritious meals, and the development of the halal industry.
She explained that Indonesia's share of Islamic financial assets has reached 51.42 percent, largely driven by state sukuk. The government is also continuing to develop innovations such as green sukuk and cash waqf to finance sustainable projects.
According to her, the biggest challenge is ensuring that Islamic instruments do not add to the burden or create inefficiencies, while still maintaining ethics and principles of justice. He assessed that the success of the Islamic economy also depends on the character of its practitioners, who should emulate the four qualities of the Prophet Muhammad: truthfulness, trustworthiness, communication, and wisdom.
“The state budget is an instrument for all of us, and we will continue to use it to achieve justice in Indonesia. The Islamic economy must become the third path based on ethics, morality, and justice,” he concluded.
