“As we have entered a new academic year, you can use the BSU funds to purchase books and school bags, sticking to productive purposes,” he expounded while reviewing BSU distribution at a post office in Mataram city, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) province.
He warned the public against misusing the assistance for online gambling, stressing that the government can trace such misuse through bank accounts registered for the aid disbursal.
He then appealed to fathers not to spend the BSU money on cigarettes, but use it to meet their families’ basic needs.
“I hope this aid will be truly beneficial. And I would like to once again ask you to use the aid for productive activities,” Gibran said.
Among the program’s beneficiaries was Yayuk Sumarni, a saleswoman who said that she received the assistance at a post office on July 28, 2025. She added that she has spent half the funds and expressed the hope that the government will launch similar initiatives for low-income workers.
Under the BSU program, the government is providing Rp600 thousand (over US$36) to 17.3 million workers earning less than Rp3.5 million (around US$211) per month as well as 565 thousand honorarium-based teachers.
It is part of a broader economic stimulus package intended to boost people’s purchasing power amid economic challenges.
A budget of Rp10.72 trillion (approximately US$645 million) has been allocated for the program, which was initially targeted for June and July 2025. The government has extended the distribution period until August 6 to ensure it reaches workers in remote areas.
Related news: Wage subsidy must reach remote areas: VP Gibran
Related news: Wage subsidy aid provided to 92.63% recipients: minister
Related news: Gibran urges no cuts in Rp600K wage aid: "Don't use it for gambling"
Translator: Sugiharto P, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
