TRENGGALEK – PMII Trenggalek has announced a stronger commitment to monitoring public policies, with the organization preparing a series of critical studies focused on government programs that directly affect local communities.
The local branch of the Indonesian Islamic Student Movement (PMII) said it plans to intensify research and policy oversight to ensure public projects comply with regulations and deliver benefits to residents.
PMII Trenggalek Chairman Beni Kusuma Wardani stated that one of the organization’s primary concerns involves the Merah Putih Village Cooperative program, known as KDMP. According to him, the group has identified questions surrounding the development of several cooperative facilities before authorities issued official permits for forest-area utilization.
“The most visible policy issue we are currently studying is the Merah Putih Village Cooperative program that was developed before formal permits for forest land use were issued,” Beni said.
He argued that such conditions raise concerns about regulatory compliance. In his view, government institutions should demonstrate stronger commitment to enforcing the rules they establish.
“Indonesia already has many regulations, but sometimes the implementation does not reflect those regulations,” he added.
PMII Trenggalek is also paying close attention to the Bagong Dam project. The organization believes the strategic infrastructure project requires stronger oversight because construction has not reached completion.
According to Beni, the prolonged development process has already affected nearby communities. He said local residents have started to feel the consequences of the delay.
PMII members recently conducted initial field observations around the project area. During those visits, they identified possible environmental concerns along the Temon River.
The organization suspects erosion has damaged several agricultural areas. Some farmers reportedly lost portions of their land because of changes along the riverbank.
“We found indications that erosion may have affected farmland near the river. We need more research before drawing conclusions,” Beni said.
PMII stressed that its findings remain preliminary. The organization plans to conduct additional studies and gather stronger evidence before releasing formal recommendations.
Beyond infrastructure issues, PMII also intends to examine challenges in the education sector. The group has received complaints from teachers regarding the education system and the uncertain status of honorary teachers.
“There are concerns about education policies and honorary teacher appointments. We will continue monitoring those issues,” Beni said.
The organization believes public oversight should cover both development projects and social issues. PMII leaders argue that education, public services, and community welfare deserve equal attention.
Beni said policy reviews will become a major focus of PMII Trenggalek in the coming years. He emphasized that the organization wants to help ensure government decisions benefit local residents.
“We want to monitor policies and encourage decisions that better serve the community,” he said.