By: Bayu Aditya)*
Public appreciation continues to flow for the Indonesian government’s latest policy offering discounted toll fares and various modes of transportation during the Eid al-Adha and mid-year school holiday period. Amid ongoing global economic uncertainty, the government’s initiative to lower travel costs demonstrates both sensitivity to public needs and a tangible expression of the state’s presence in maintaining citizens’ purchasing power.
Under the leadership of President Prabowo Subianto, the government announced a 20% toll subsidy applicable over ten days in June and July 2025. This policy is part of a larger economic stimulus package worth IDR 24.44 trillion, discussed during a closed cabinet meeting at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta. It is estimated that over 110 million toll road users will benefit from this measure.
The Ministry of Finance, led by Sri Mulyani Indrawati, has allocated IDR 650 billion for this toll subsidy. Interestingly, this program is not directly funded by the State Budget (APBN), but operates through an off-budget mechanism, coordinated with Toll Road Business Entities (BUJTs) and under the technical direction of the Ministry of Public Works and Housing (PUPR).
This toll discount is not merely a technical measure to reduce travel costs, but also a strategic calculation responding to increased public mobility during key periods. PUPR Minister Dody Hanggodo emphasized that the timing of the discounts has been carefully aligned with three major moments: Eid al-Adha, the beginning of school holidays, and the end of the break. These are peak travel times in Indonesia, whether for religious, leisure, or family purposes. Through this approach, the government demonstrates an adaptive policymaking strategy aligned with the actual needs of the public.
The Coordinating Ministry for Infrastructure and Regional Development (Kemenko IPK) also stated that this initiative is not only about easing public mobility, but also about boosting regional economies. Herzaky Mahendra Putra, Special Staff for Public Communication at Kemenko IPK, stressed that every rupiah of state spending must generate concrete benefits. Therefore, this policy is not just a temporary incentive, but a strategic effort by the government to generate a multiplier effect across various regions.
The government continues to refine policy formulas to ensure that infrastructure and transportation decisions directly benefit the people. The formulation of this policy was carried out with thorough consideration and precise calculation, ensuring that all government instruments remain focused on public welfare. The toll discount reflects a synergy between fiscal policy and effective public service delivery.
Beyond toll roads, the government also offers significant incentives for other transport sectors. These include a 30% discount on train tickets, a 50% reduction on ship fares, and a 6% VAT exemption for air travel—completing the government’s broad strategy to stimulate the national transportation sector. This comprehensive and integrated package affirms the government’s holistic attention to public mobility.
Legislative support has also emerged. Deputy Chair of Commission V of the House of Representatives (DPR RI), Andi Iwan Darmawan Aras, acknowledged the policy as a reflection of the government’s commitment to easing the burden on citizens, particularly those traveling for family reunions or leisure.
However, Iwan also highlighted the importance of ensuring the adequacy of supporting infrastructure along toll roads—such as rest areas with clean toilets, fuel stations, and proper health facilities. He also urged the government to enhance parking areas and manage traffic in congested zones to ensure smooth and comfortable travel during the discount period.
Thanks to these subsidies, the public can now plan trips with reduced financial strain, without compromising comfort. More importantly, the policy sends a strong signal that the state remains responsive to the evolving needs of the people, even in highly technical matters such as toll tariffs.
This initiative should be viewed not only as direct financial aid, but as an economic policy with far-reaching impact. Increased public mobility boosts other sectors, such as tourism, culinary industries, and MSMEs in destination regions. In essence, this policy extends well beyond travel cost reductions—it stimulates broader economic activity.
The government has demonstrated firm, people-centered leadership through this policy. The enthusiastic public response reflects a shared sense of relief and trust—especially in a time when economic pressures remain high. In this light, continued public appreciation serves as proof that well-crafted and well-executed policies targeting real public needs will always resonate with the people. The government deserves recognition for its commitment and direction.
*) The author is a contributor at Pertiwi Institute.
