Bekasi Residents Embrace Free Mudik (Homecoming) Programme, Saving Millions in Rupiah

BEKASI — The enthusiasm of residents participating in the free mudik (homecoming) programme organised by the Bekasi City Government is evident in the departure process at Patriot Candrabhaga Stadium on Sunday, 15 March 2026.

For many residents, the programme offers hope of returning to their hometowns without bearing the burden of expensive travel costs.

Maman, 50, a resident of Rawalumbu, Bekasi, shared that he has participated in the free mudik programme to Solo, Central Java, organised by the local government three times previously.

“The programme is comfortable and saves money too. I can save 1.2 million rupiah for three people,” Maman told Kompas.com on Sunday, 15 March 2026.

Maman said that before departing with his family, he had prepared several important matters, including maintaining his health and preparing money to bring to his hometown.

“Money as provisions in the village to distribute as holiday bonuses to nieces and nephews,” he said.

For Maman, mudik is not merely a journey home, but also an opportunity to reunite with his extended family after spending a long time living in the city. For this reason, he hopes the free mudik programme will continue in the coming years, even with larger quotas.

“In my opinion, this is very beneficial for families who cannot afford it,” he said.

Similar sentiments were expressed by Sugeng, 45, another mudik participant heading to Solo. He expressed joy at being able to participate in the free mudik programme from the Bekasi City Government once again.

“I’m happy to be able to return home through this free mudik programme. Especially since travel costs are more expensive these days,” Sugeng said.

Sugeng has participated in the free mudik programme several times. This year marks his fourth consecutive participation in the scheme.

According to him, the registration process for the free mudik programme is straightforward and does not burden residents.

“All you need is a residence certificate, family card, and ID card,” he said.

This year, Sugeng is returning to his hometown with three family members. He stated that longing for his parents is his primary reason for always trying to go home during Lebaran.

“Because my parents are still in the village, so I want to go home. I happen to live in Pekayon, South Bekasi,” Sugeng said.