We will monitor the data to prevent those who are not entitled to it from receiving it
Bandung, West Java (ANTARA) - The West Java government has expressed its readiness to monitor the distribution of the central government's direct cash assistance for fuel oil to ensure that it reaches the targeted recipients.

"We from the regional government will help ensure that there is no excess of direct cash assistance because it will be distributed directly through the post office to the Indonesian people, particularly West Java. We will monitor the data to prevent those who are not entitled to it from receiving it," Governor of West Java M. Ridwan Kamil said in a written statement received on Friday.

The experience of the West Java provincial government in distributing social assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic would provide a reference for effective and efficient allocation, he added.

The provincial government has established clear patterns and rules for the disbursement, which include a gradual inspection, he said.

"We have experience during COVID-19 doing data cleaning, up to 23 stages, to ensure that everyone who receives social assistance or direct cash assistance (is the right person)," he recalled.

Governor Kamil also urged Pertamina to supervise the supply of subsidized fuel oil so that it reaches the right people, that is, those who meet the criteria.

He said that clarifications must be made in terms of regulations and the allocation of subsidized fuel.

Once this is resolved, the problem of subsidized fuel can be addressed, and the assistance can be allocated effectively and efficiently.

Prior to the fuel price increase, the problem that often arose was regarding the rules pertaining to subsidized fuel distribution because not all buyers met the criteria for obtaining the fuel, so there is a need to make the process clear.

"So far, if we go to gas stations, it's just like that. It's just a matter of buying and selling, there is no screening. Please make sure that the subsidy (is allocated to the right people) so that it can be in accordance with the practice now," Kamil said.

All along, subsidized fuel was given to the wrong people, and Pertamina called for a way to ensure that those who received it were the right beneficiaries, he added.

The central government's move to increase fuel prices must be addressed wisely, as currently, the fuel subsidy has reached around Rp500 trillion.

"Therefore, of course, we must deal with all of this wisely, and understand the reason for the central government('s action, which is) because the subsidy is already above Rp500 trillion to finance fuel subsidies alone," the governor added.

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Translator: Ajat Sudrajat, Mecca Yumna
Editor: Sri Haryati
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