The government plans to launch six economic stimulus packages in the fourth quarter of 2025, one of which is a ‘Cash for Work’ program targeting labor-intensive workers in the transportation and housing sectors.
The program’s arrival is welcomed. According to the assessment, Cash for Work is very relevant for drivers of urban, rural, intercity (AKDP), inter-provincial (AKAP), and inter-provincial shuttle (AJAP/travel) transport, who have long faced income shortages.
“Similar to what online motorcycle taxi drivers experience, but without the same public spotlight,” it was stated in a written release.
In fact, the role of these public transport drivers is considered no less important as heroes of public transportation. In many developed countries, this profession is valued appropriately, receiving salaries that match living standards, and the government even sets wage standards for bus drivers.
Given these conditions, it is said that it is time for the government to provide equal attention to these public transport drivers.
“This attention could be given in the form of assistance, such as incentives to substitute for the purchase of fuel (BBM),” it was stated.
Regarding the distribution process, it was said that the provision could be coordinated by the Ministry of Transportation with the central Organda DPP. Meanwhile, in the regions, it can be coordinated with the local Transportation Office and Organda DPC.
The Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs announced several new programs the government will run until the end of the year to increase productivity and spur economic growth. This was announced after a meeting was held to prepare the budget posts.
“We discussed the economic package requested by the President to be prepared immediately. There are several aspects of this package being prepared and it will be discussed with related ministers, and this time we discussed it with the Minister of Finance so the programs’ budget posts are prepared,” it was stated at an office in Central Jakarta.
The programs disclosed include one to increase internship acceptance for recent graduates (fresh graduates). Those interning in the government sector will receive an income. “This is being prepared. They will receive an income,” it was stated.
Then there is the expansion of government-borne value-added tax (PPN DTP). Currently, this program is already running in the labor-intensive industrial or housing sector and an expansion to other sectors is being encouraged.
There is also an ongoing food assistance program that will continue for the next three months. Equally special is the provision of BPJS Employment facilities for online motorcycle taxi (ojol) workers, for which the government pays 50% of the contributions.
“Facilities that have so far been provided to workers, such as work accident insurance, job loss insurance, and death insurance, are also to be encouraged for freelance or partner workers, in this case ojol. We will also push for this, for which the government previously provided assistance for 50% of the payment,” it was stated.
“Then also the facilitation of BPJS Employment for housing facilities, renovation, and home ownership,” it was added.
It was stated that overall there are 8+4 programs that will be aligned with needs. Regarding the total budget, it is being prepared and will be discussed again to be decided.
