Indonesia’s BRIN to Launch 177 Policy Research Projects in 2026 to Strengthen Evidence-Based Governance
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has announced plans to undertake 177 policy research projects in 2026 as part of its efforts to strengthen evidence-based policymaking and support national development priorities.
BRIN Head Arif Satria said the research topics were identified through a consultative forum involving secretaries-general of various ministries, ensuring that the studies directly address the policy needs of government institutions.
“In 2026, we have prepared 177 policy research topics. These topics were identified through a forum involving all ministry secretaries-general, who conveyed their research needs. As a result, the policy research we conduct is based on the needs of the ministries,” Satria said in a statement released on Saturday.
He noted, however, that while ministry proposals reflect immediate policy priorities, they may not fully address broader and more fundamental national challenges. To bridge this gap, BRIN is also seeking input from Commission X of Indonesia’s House of Representatives to ensure that future research is closely aligned with public needs and long-term national interests.
As part of its expanded research agenda, BRIN is also reinforcing scientific research in the sports sector through the establishment of a Sports Research Organization. The initiative will be supported by Research Collaboration Centers with universities across the country, promoting science-driven development of Indonesian sports.
Satria expressed confidence that stronger collaboration between researchers and academic institutions would help improve athletic performance and sports policy through evidence-based approaches.
Meanwhile, Hetifah Sjaifudian, Chairperson of the House of Representatives’ Commission X, commended BRIN’s commitment to advancing research and innovation in support of effective public policymaking.
She emphasized that BRIN should continue strengthening its role as Indonesia’s leading research institution and serve as a strategic think tank for the legislature, ministries, and other government agencies.
“Our aspiration for BRIN is to be a think tank not only for the legislature but also for various ministries and other government institutions,” Hetifah said, underscoring the importance of research, innovation, and data in shaping national policies.
