RRI.CO.ID, Yogyakarta - Indonesia has launched the Electric Tourism Pedicab Ecosystem (Bekalista) to preserve cultural heritage while promoting sustainable tourism and improving drivers' livelihoods. The program was launched by Minister of Finance Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa and Yogyakarta Governor Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X in Yogyakarta on Thursday, July 16, 2026.

Governor Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono said Bekalista is more than a new transportation mode. He said the initiative combines cultural preservation, environmental sustainability, and economic empowerment.

He stressed that traditional pedicabs remain an important symbol of Yogyakarta and a source of income for many families. He said technological innovation should improve drivers' welfare without erasing the city's cultural identity.

"Preserving pedicabs does not mean preserving the drivers' exhaustion. Tradition must be supported by technology so it remains alive, useful, and provides a better livelihood for those who preserve it," Sri Sultan said.

The governor added that Bekalista includes charging stations, a central workshop, mobile maintenance services, and spare batteries. He said the ecosystem would support reliable operations and improve service quality for visitors.

Minister of Finance Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, said the program includes grants for 80 electric-assisted tourism pedicabs, 12 charging stations, one mobile workshop, eight spare batteries, and one central workshop at State Vocational High School 3 Yogyakarta. He added that local workers and vocational students are involved in manufacturing, assembly, electrical systems, and vehicle development.

During the first phase, 15 Bekalista units were handed over to cooperative members operating in the Malioboro area. The initiative also supports the transformation of Malioboro into a pedestrian-friendly and low-emission zone through the gradual replacement of motorized pedicabs with electric-assisted and traditional pedal-powered vehicles.