Jakarta. President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo said national infrastructure development projects should not be postponed any longer to avoid higher costs in the future.

During a cabinet meeting convened to discuss funding for prioritized infrastructure projects, the president said he brought up the issue on several previous occasions – the most recent being at the previous cabinet plenary meeting.

Jokowi expressed hope to see progress in the ongoing projects, especially regarding their funding.

"In 2018, we want all the prioritized national infrastructure programs to be completed. The infrastructure developments can no longer be postponed. If we withdraw, the funding [requirement] will increase," he said at the presidential office in Central Jakarta on Tuesday (11/04).

The president also encouraged ministers to invite the private sector to contribute in large infrastructure projects, such as the building of toll roads, seaports and airports.

"These developments will also help accelerate economic growth," he said.

Jokowi said the government will offer schemes to fund these developments from various sources, such as the state budget, nongovernment budget and private investment.

This will also add to investments from state-owned enterprises, public private partnerships with the government, as well as partnerships between state-owned enterprises and the private sector.

"If none would take the [investment] opportunities, they can be assigned to state-owned enterprises. Our last resort would be from the state, or regional budgets," Jokowi said.

The president also noted that there are still various obstacles related to land procurement, and assigned ministers to find solutions.

"Whatever [issues] related to the funding will be detailed," Jokowi said.

Watch Indonesia Highlights at 8 p.m. tonight on the Jakarta Globe News Channel to find out more about the acceleration of national infrastructure projects.