RADAR TRENGGALEK – Trenggalek village fund cuts of up to 83% from central government allocations are pressuring rural administrations across the East Java regency. However, local leaders say public services must continue without decline.

The issue surfaced during the inauguration of the Trenggalek branch of the Indonesian Village Heads Association. The new leadership will serve the 2026-2031 term.

Puryono, head of the Trenggalek branch of the Indonesian Village Heads Association, said reduced funding cannot justify weaker services.

“Even if village funds decrease, public services must not slacken. We must keep building villages with creativity,” he said.

He stressed that village heads must adapt to tighter fiscal space. They should prioritize programs carefully so development and services continue.

Puryono said the association strengthens solidarity among village leaders. It also serves as a coordination and support platform for rural administrations across Trenggalek.

“We prioritize unity and shared commitment. We are ready to assist every village to move forward,” he said.

After the inauguration, the association will hold a bimonthly forum called Ngopi Bareng. The meetings will gather village leaders to share field challenges and develop joint solutions.

Puryono said regular dialogue helps align policy decisions with real village conditions. This becomes crucial as budget limits threaten development programs.

He also clarified a previous comment about extending village head tenure. He said the remark was only a joke during discussions and not an official organizational stance.

With stronger solidarity and commitment to services, village leaders aim to continue development realistically despite funding cuts, he said.