Banyuwangi – The government continues to develop its social assistance distribution system as part of its efforts to improve public welfare. In 2025, the Family Hope Program (PKH) and Non-Cash Food Assistance (BPNT) will remain the two main programs supporting the basic needs of underprivileged families.
A number of reforms, including the use of a new database and the digitization of the distribution system, have been implemented to ensure that aid is more targeted, transparent, and has a long-term impact.
One of the key innovations in this transformation is the use of the National Social and Economic Single Data (DTSEN) as the main database, replacing the Integrated Social Welfare Data (DTKS).
Furthermore, the central government has designated Banyuwangi Regency as a pilot project for digitizing social assistance through the Adaptive Social Protection (Parlinsos) portal. This portal is an initiative of the National Economic Council (DEN) in collaboration with several ministries to build an integrated and secure Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI).
“Among them is Banyuwangi’s readiness, which can be seen from its track record of the government’s digital transformation process so far, including its excellent SPBE index, as well as the high commitment of its regional leaders,” said Acting Deputy for Government Digital Transformation at the Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform, Cahyono Tri Birowo.
Through this platform, the public will be able to independently verify, register, and monitor social assistance. The data used will leverage digital identity, biometric data for authentication, and a cross-sector data exchange system.
Meanwhile, DEN’s Principal Expert on Government Technology, Rahmat Danu Andika, emphasized that this system was designed to address the classic problem of social assistance, which often goes to the wrong targets.
“We hope that with this portal, there will be no more stories of misdirected and ineffective social assistance. Therefore, in this pilot, we really need the open-mindedness of regional heads and a shared enthusiasm for trying new approaches. Banyuwangi is the perfect place to start this project,” he said.
The program is scheduled to begin in September 2025, with an initial focus on the distribution of PKH and BPNT. If successful, the scope of assistance will be expanded nationally.
Banyuwangi Regent Ipuk Fiestiandani expressed his full support for the program. He was also optimistic that the digitalization of social assistance would have a significant impact on the community.
“In principle, we are ready to collaborate to realize the public’s well-being. With proper targeting, aid recipients can be more empowered and prosperous,” he explained.
The PKH and BPNT programs have been crucial pillars in improving the welfare of vulnerable families. Quarterly distributions make it easier for beneficiary families to manage their assistance in a planned manner.
