By: Gavin Asadit )*
The Government, through the Ministry of Manpower (Kemnaker), has ensured that the 2025 Wage Subsidy Assistance (BSU) program is being implemented accurately, transparently, and accountably. As of early July 2025, a total of 8.3 million formal sector workers have received assistance worth IDR 600,000. This figure is part of the national target of 17.3 million recipients, which is scheduled to be completed soon.
BSU 2025 is distributed through two main mechanisms: via state-owned banks (Bank Himbara) and PT Pos Indonesia. The government recognizes the importance of flexibility in distribution mechanisms to ensure no worker is left behind due to limited access to banking services. Therefore, since early July, distribution through PT Pos Indonesia has been intensified, particularly for recipients without bank accounts or those experiencing issues during account verification.
Minister of Manpower, Yassierli, explained that a multi-layered validation system is in place to ensure that BSU funds are received only by eligible recipients. The government has also implemented digital distribution processes through PT Pos Indonesia’s Pospay application. Through this app, BSU recipients can check their assistance status and obtain a QR Code to be used for collection at post offices. Head of Public Relations at the Ministry of Manpower, Sunardi Manampiar Sinaga, referred to this innovation as a strategic step to accelerate distribution while ensuring transparency.
Furthermore, digitalization enables faster and more accurate data control and distribution. Recipients simply need to present the QR Code obtained from the Pospay app, along with their ID card and an active BPJS Employment membership card. Verification is then conducted digitally and transparently.
In practice, the government guarantees that this entire process is free of charge. Recipients only need to visit the nearest post office without requiring the services of intermediaries or brokers. Postal staff will verify recipient identities using the digital system, collect photo documentation of the recipient and their ID card, and then directly disburse the BSU funds.
Meanwhile, Yassierli also stated that the first phase of disbursement through banks has been completed, and the next phase via PT Pos is currently underway. He noted that the government aims to expedite the assistance distribution, especially as many workers are in urgent need of the funds.
According to Ministerial Regulation Number 5 of 2025, strict criteria have been set for BSU recipients. Eligible recipients must be Indonesian citizens, active participants of BPJS Employment as of the end of April 2025, earn less than IDR 3.5 million or equivalent to the regional minimum wage (UMP/UMK), and not be members of the military, police, or civil servants. They also must not be receiving other social assistance such as PKH, BPNT, or BPUM.
Yassierli emphasized that the government trusts the public to use the assistance funds wisely. However, public education efforts are continually intensified to encourage recipients to utilize the aid productively.
The government has also provided easy access for the public to check their BSU recipient status through several official channels. The four main channels include the official Ministry of Manpower website (bsu.kemnaker.go.id), the BPJS Employment website (bsu.bpjsketenagakerjaan.go.id), the JMO (Jamsostek Mobile) app, and the Pospay app from PT Pos Indonesia. The public is urged not to trust unofficial information or offers of assistance from unauthorized parties.
Kemnaker and PT Pos Indonesia are actively conducting public education campaigns through various media and social channels to help the public understand official procedures and avoid falling victim to fraud or illegal fees. Sunardi also reiterated that BSU disbursement is free of deductions and does not involve third parties. If anyone claims they can help expedite disbursement, the public should be cautious and report such incidents.
BPJS Employment, as the provider of recipient data, has confirmed that the verification process is based on the most current and up-to-date data as of May 2025. Overall, the implementation of BSU 2025 shows improvements in technology and administrative processes compared to previous years. While the 2020 and 2021 disbursements relied entirely on banks, the current alternative distribution via PT Pos Indonesia provides broader access and reaches workers residing in areas without banking services.
By mid-July 2025, approximately 9 million workers remain targeted to receive assistance in the final wave. The government is optimistic that the entire distribution process will be completed on schedule. With accurate targeting, digital distribution, and public transparency, the 2025 BSU program is expected to help maintain the economic stability of low-income workers and support inclusive national economic recovery efforts.
*) The author is a Social and Community Affairs Observer.
