Economist Praises Government's Economic Stimulus Policy Ahead of Eid al-Fitr 2026

Jakarta, VIVA – Economist from Muhammadiyah University Bengkulu, Dr. Surya Vandiantara, considers the government’s policy to provide economic stimulus ahead of Eid al-Fitr 2026 to be highly appropriate, as it can maintain public purchasing power.

The economic stimulus includes food assistance for 34.04 million Beneficiary Families (KPM), transportation discounts for the homecoming exodus, timely THR for civil servants, as well as assurances on fuel and LPG stocks ahead of Eid.

“The food assistance policy for 34.04 million Beneficiary Families (KPM), transportation discounts for the homecoming, and timely THR for civil servants are policies aimed at maintaining public purchasing power,” said Surya in his statement on Thursday, 19 March 2026.

He added that the government’s assurance to guarantee fuel and LPG stocks and supplies is also important to keep the prices of daily necessities stable. Because if these two commodities are not controlled, it could trigger inflation and mass panic.

“Rises in fuel and LPG prices can trigger increases in other commodity prices. Therefore, it is important for the government to maintain price stability through fuel and LPG stock guarantee programmes to prevent high inflation,” he stated.

Furthermore, Surya opined that the economic stimulus in the form of food assistance consisting of 20 kg of rice and 4 litres of oil will be directly felt by the communities in need.

He believes this is the moment for the state to be present to protect the poor so that they can also celebrate Eid.

“This economic policy is a reflection of state expenditure budget usage that favours the poor. It is only right that the state must always be present to protect the people,” said Surya.

In addition, Surya also appreciated the government’s success in maintaining food price stability. This is evident from food prices that remain within the reach of public purchasing power because stocks and supplies are well-maintained.

“Current food prices are well-maintained and stable. Prices are well-maintained and stable if the current prices are still within the reach of public purchasing power, so that the public has the ability to buy various food needs,” he stated.