Indonesian Health Ministry Launches Free Homecoming Program Ahead of Eid

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Ministry of Health has organized a free “mudik bersama” (homecoming travel) program for its employees and their families ahead of Eid. A total of 26 buses has been dispatched to destinations across Java and Sumatra, carrying around 1,124 participants.

Secretary-General of the Health Ministry Kunta Wibawa said the program also prioritizes the health and safety of both passengers and drivers. Medical checks were conducted beforehand to ensure the journey would be safe.

“Today we are holding a joint homecoming program for Health Ministry staff. There are 26 buses heading to Central Java, East Java, and as far as Medan in North Sumatra,” Kunta explained at a press conference on Friday, March 13, 2026.

He added that all bus drivers underwent health screenings prior to departure, covering general health conditions and tests to ensure they were free from alcohol or harmful substances. “This is a health-conscious homecoming. We provide free medical checks, including for drivers, who were tested from the start,” Kunta noted.

Deputy Health Minister Dante Saksono Harbuwono emphasized that the safety and well-being of participants remain the top priority. He reminded travelers to maintain their physical condition and urged drivers to rest adequately to ensure a safe journey.

“This program involves about 1,126 participants from the Health Ministry, traveling on 26 buses, with the farthest destination being Medan in North Sumatra,” Dante said.

He also advised participants to stay healthy by monitoring food and fluid intake during the trip, while reminding drivers to take breaks regularly. “I urge all participants to maintain their health, watch their diet and hydration. For drivers, please stretch and rest every four hours, because safety is everything,” he stressed. (Annaila Azzahra/Sri Wahyuni)