National resource management has been a focal point of attention in the country lately, with presidential candidate number 1, Anies Baswedan, voicing concerns of its weak implementation.

Anies made these remarks while responding to a question during a discussion alongside candidates of the 2024 presidential election at the Regional Representatives Council (DPD) building on Friday, February 2, 2024.

The former Governor of Jakarta mentioned ongoing issues related to the management of natural resources, particularly involving foreign-owned companies exploiting Indonesia's resources.

"Most of these companies are foreign-owned, and the majority of their trust lies in foreign workers with qualifications similar to the workforce in Indonesia. This is a problem," stated Anies.

He described the criteria for resource management related to companies in six aspects. According to Anies, the first issue is related to equal opportunities, particularly concerning income improvement and foreign exchange.

The second issue, according to Anies, is the economic growth of regions. Additionally, income generated in these regions should be used to reduce poverty.

"Then, the fourth is to create job opportunities for the locals, especially those in the region to experience it. Fifth, there should be technology transfer, and sixth, there must be environmental protection," Anies explained.

Anies emphasized that resource management should be based on constitutional principles, citing the oath of office as the foundation. He clarified that this stance is not anti anything but a commitment to uphold the constitution.

"We see that these things need correction so that the available natural wealth can be felt by the people in that area," Anies added.

The issue of natural resource management has been highlighted by Anies Baswedan-Muhaimin Iskandar's election campaign team.

They have criticized the management of natural resources, such as in the downstream program, which is perceived as neglecting the environment and the welfare of communities in the vicinity.

Previously, during the vice-presidential candidate debate on January 21, 2024, Anies's running mate, Muhaimin Iskandar, accused the Jokowi administration of implementing reckless natural resource management.