Government Encourages Work from Home (WFH), Saving Energy and Trillions of Rupiah in Budget
The government, through the Ministry of Manpower, has officially encouraged the implementation of work from home (WFH) as a strategic measure to conserve the state budget and energy consumption, with potential savings of trillions of rupiah in the fuel sector and other operational efficiencies.
This policy is outlined in Circular Letter (SE) Number M/6/HK.04/III/2026, signed by Minister of Manpower Yassierli in Jakarta at the end of March 2026.
Yassierli emphasized that the WFH policy must not diminish workers’ rights. He ensured that all companies remain obligated to fulfill their obligations to pay wages and benefits in full.
“Systematic steps are needed to optimize energy use in the workplace,” Yassierli said.
From a macroeconomic perspective, this policy is considered to have a significant impact on state budget efficiency. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto stated that the largest savings come from reduced fuel consumption due to reduced public mobility.
“The potential savings from this Work From Home policy, which goes directly to the State Budget, is IDR 6.2 trillion in fuel compensation savings, while the total public fuel expenditure has the potential to save IDR 59 trillion,” said Airlangga.
According to him, reducing official travel and the use of operational vehicles are the main factors in this efficiency. The government is also urging a 50 percent limit on official vehicle use, except for essential operational needs and electric vehicles, and encouraging the use of public transportation.
“Mobility efficiency includes limiting official vehicle use to 50 percent and encouraging the use of public transportation,” he explained.
Furthermore, the government is reducing the frequency of official travel, both domestically by 50 percent and internationally by 70 percent. This policy is expected to strengthen national energy security while maintaining fiscal stability amidst global economic dynamics.
Meanwhile, PT Pertamina (Persero) confirmed that there will be no change in fuel prices, both subsidized and non-subsidized. This statement was made in response to public concerns regarding the price hike rumors that had circulated. Pertamina’s Vice President of Corporate Communications, Muhammad Baron, emphasized the company’s readiness to support government policies.
“Pertamina is ready to implement government policies to maintain national economic stability amidst the global energy crisis,” he said.***