Jakarta, Dec. 17 -- President Prabowo Subianto has urged regional governments in Papua not to use special autonomy funds for unnecessary overseas official travel, stressing that the funds must be directed toward priority development programs that directly benefit the public.

The instruction was delivered during a briefing for Papua regional heads at the State Palace in Jakarta on Tuesday, December 16, according to an official release from the Presidential Secretariat.

"I truly ask the governors and district heads to take responsibility. District heads and governors should not travel abroad using special autonomy funds," President Prabowo said.

He then questioned the firmness of their commitment, asking, "Can you do that? Why is the ans...