Jakarta, Sept. 14 -- Newly inaugurated Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara pledged to keep Indonesia's fiscal deficit firmly below the 3-percent statutory cap, framing strict budget discipline and spending efficiency as key pillars of national economic stability.

"The deficit will remain below 3 percent," Suahasil told reporters following his swearing-in ceremony at the State Palace in Jakarta on Monday.

He emphasized that maintaining the health and credibility of state financial management is essential to implementing the government's strategic priority programs in a measured and sustainable manner.

According to Suahasil, a credible budget serves as an important policy instrument for driving economic growth while safeguarding national st...