The Coretax project, a new tax administration system for Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes (DJP), has recently sparked a heated debate. Launched with a significant budget of Rp 1.2 trillion, the system has faced technical difficulties that have made it hard for users to access, especially during tax filing or payment periods.

Social media users have voiced their concerns, questioning the vendor responsible for building the system. One user, for example, commented on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Tender 1.3T, and this is the result” in frustration about the system's issues. Another user wondered whether the procurement process was funded by tax dollars.

Despite the criticism, the DJP has clarified that LG CNS, a subsidiary of LG Corporation, was the winner of the tender for the Coretax system. The project was awarded following a tender process with a total value of Rp 1.22 trillion, including VAT. This amount was specified in a December 2020 announcement on the DJP’s official website.

The Coretax system is designed to improve the country’s tax administration. However, some users have complained about its usability, especially when reporting taxes or accessing transactions during high-demand periods. Complaints often mention difficulties in navigating the platform when trying to submit tax reports.

Meanwhile, the DJP’s announcement also included details about the contractor tasked with overseeing the Coretax project’s implementation. PT Deloitte Consulting was hired to provide project management, vendor oversight, and quality assurance services. The project management consultancy contract was valued at Rp 117 billion, with negotiations bringing the final cost to Rp 110 billion.

While the project’s official funding sources are identified as coming from the DJP’s budget from 2020 to 2024, critics have raised concerns about the value of the investment, particularly considering the ongoing issues with the system.

With the Coretax system now in the public eye, stakeholders in Indonesia’s tax system are urging authorities to resolve the technical challenges to ensure smoother experiences for users.

PHOTO: PAJAK.IO