Govt Programs Aim to Boost Economic Activity During Eid

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, stated that government programs such as transportation discounts, flexible work policies, and social assistance are designed to stimulate national economic activity.

He made the remarks during an open house event celebrating Eid al-Fitr on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at his residence in the Widya Chandra area of Jakarta.

“We fast for 30 days, and of course, the meaning of this victory is also related to the economy. The government has implemented many programs, including discounts and work-from-anywhere policies, as well as food aid and social assistance,” he said, as quoted by Antara.

Minister Airlangga explained that concrete measures have been introduced, particularly in the transportation sector. Discounts are being offered across various modes of travel, including air, rail, sea, and land transport.

Train and ship tickets are discounted by about 30 percent, while airline tickets are reduced by 17–18 percent. Ferry fares have been waived to ease travel costs.

He hopes that these programs will increase public mobility and consumption, thereby supporting economic growth. “With this momentum, we hope to achieve 5.5 percent economic growth in the first quarter,” he said.

The government previously rolled out incentives to encourage mobility during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, including discounts on transportation and toll road fares.

The total budget for these transportation incentives is estimated at IDR 900 billion, sourced from both state and non-state funds. The policy is intended to facilitate the exodus flow and stimulate regional economic activity.

In addition to mobility incentives, the government is distributing food assistance to more than 35 million families to maintain purchasing power. The packages, consisting of basic necessities such as rice and cooking oil, are being provided for two months to ensure stable household consumption.

Minister Airlangga also reminded the public to remain vigilant against global volatility, particularly oil price fluctuations. “Happy Eid al-Fitr. I apologize for any physical or spiritual inconveniences. In this atmosphere, we hope that we can face the future oil crisis together,” he said. ***