The role of local government expenditure on economic growth: A review of panel data in Indonesia

Abstract

Purpose of the study: This research aims to empirically prove the composition of local government expenditure (education, health, marine and fisheries, agriculture, and general allocation fund) on economic growth in 18 provinces in Indonesia from 2010 to 2015. Methodology: The model used in this research is panel data regression. The use of panel data in regression can provide more information that cannot be provided by cross-section or time-series data, and provides the best solution for inferring dynamic changes than cross-section data. Main Findings: The findings in this study are foreign investment has no influence on economic growth. Fiscal policies that are carried out are not effective in encouraging economic growth, and the use of the General Allocation Fund is not on target. Applications of this study: Foreign investment must be a trigger for the local economy and the national economy by means of foreign investment in Indonesia which is prioritized using raw materials and local labour, so that dependence on imported raw materials can be minimized. To overcome leakage of development budget must implement a budgeting system that is oriented towards organizational output and is very closely related to the organization’s vision, mission, and strategic plan. The use of general allocation funds needs to be monitored by certain institutions and prioritizing public interest. © Basuki et al.