RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The National Alms Agency (BAZNAS) has introduced a free healthcare program for motorcycle taxi drivers in the Greater Jakarta (Jabodetabek) area, aiming to strengthen the welfare of informal workers ahead of Ramadan.

Through the “Healthy Ojek Shelter” (SOS) initiative, BAZNAS is providing medical services at 15 strategic locations from February 11 to 18, 2026. Mobile health units stationed at high-traffic hubs, including Depok Baru Station, are offering blood pressure checks, blood sugar and cholesterol testing, uric acid screenings, medical consultations, and free vitamins and medications.

BAZNAS Commissioner for Distribution and Utilization, Saidah Sakwan, said the program is designed to ensure drivers remain healthy during the fasting month while continuing to earn a living. “Ahead of Ramadan, we want to ensure our brothers and sisters, the ojek drivers, are in a healthy condition so they can carry out the fasting ritual with devotion while remaining productive in earning a living,” she said in Jakarta on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, as quoted on Baznas's official website.

She added that health is the foundation of productivity, particularly for informal workers who rely on daily income.

Director of Distribution at BAZNAS, Ahmad Fikri, explained that the program targets 2,000 beneficiaries over its week-long run. He noted that the pre-Ramadan period is a critical time to address potential health issues. “We want them to remain enthusiastic about earning a living and, God willing, be able to observe the fast well,” he said during the program’s inauguration in Depok.

Vice Chairman of BAZNAS Depok, Agus Dwi Cahyono, emphasized that the service is located directly at ojek base camps, removing time and cost barriersthat often prevent drivers from seeking medical care. He noted that household expenses typically rise before Ramadan, which requires drivers to work longer hours and makes health support essential.

The program has already drawn positive responses from drivers. Muhammad Kotip, a 58-year-old ojek driver, said the convenience of the service made a significant difference. “Usually, we are lazy about health checks because we have to go to the community health center or hospital. This is right at the base, free, and we get medicine too. So, we are ready to welcome Ramadan,” he said.

Another driver, Tri Juliana, 29, welcomed the free cholesterol and blood sugar checks, noting that such services are usually costly.

By channeling zakat funds into direct medical services, BAZNAS intends for the SOS program to demonstrate transparent management of community contributions while supporting the health of workers who play a vital role in urban mobility. ***