JAKARTA — The Indonesian government continues to accelerate the distribution of social assistance (bansos) through the implementation of a more integrated digital system. This initiative aims to ensure that aid is distributed on time, reaches the right beneficiaries, and is free from bureaucratic hurdles or potential misuse.
Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Meutya Hafid stated that the digitalization of the Direct Cash Assistance (BLT) for Social Welfare (Kesra) program has had a tangible positive impact by improving convenience for recipients.
“Now, beneficiaries no longer need to wait in long lines since the distribution uses a digital invitation system, and the service process is much faster,” said Meutya.
She also emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring that every eligible beneficiary receives their assistance.
“No one should be left behind. If a recipient cannot attend due to certain reasons, the aid will be delivered directly to their home,” she asserted.
The digital transformation effort is supported by PT Pos Indonesia, which serves as the distribution partner for social assistance. The state-owned company has evolved into a modern logistics service provider powered by digital financial systems.
Acting President Director of PT Pos Indonesia, Haris, explained that beneficiary verification is now conducted through barcode scanning and a digital application, which speeds up the payment process and eliminates long queues.
“Recipients only need to bring their barcode invitation letter and ID. Our officers will verify them via the application, and the cash assistance will be disbursed immediately,” Haris explained.
He added that digitalization enables the verification process to occur automatically and in real time, making distribution more accurate and minimizing data errors.
Meanwhile, Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf highlighted the importance of accessibility in applying for and monitoring social assistance. He noted that challenges still exist in ensuring that aid reaches those truly in need. With digitalization, citizens who believe they are eligible can independently check their eligibility or submit applications.
“Through this Digital Bansos system, everyone entitled to social aid can apply for assistance. They can also file a complaint if they believe they qualify but were denied aid — all through their mobile phone, without having to meet anyone in person,” said the minister, popularly known as Gus Ipul.
Chairman of the Government Digital Transformation Acceleration Committee (KPTDP), Luhut Binsar Panjaitan, stressed that the digitalization of social assistance goes beyond distribution — it also focuses on monitoring beneficiaries’ welfare progress.
“Beneficiaries will continue to be monitored to ensure their welfare level improves — for instance, through educational aid or small business capital programs,” said Luhut.
According to Luhut, the integration of social assistance data forms part of President Prabowo Subianto’s strategic agenda to eradicate poverty comprehensively. Digitalization allows the government to design more precise policies based on data-driven analysis of beneficiary information.
The government’s effort to digitalize social assistance reflects its strong commitment to improving the quality of public services while strengthening social protection. With faster, more transparent, and measurable processes, this initiative is expected to enhance the living standards of beneficiary families across Indonesia.
