Finance Minister and Sultan HB X Launch 80 Bekalista Electric Rickshaws as Yogyakarta's New Tourism Icon

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa and the Governor of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, launched 80 Bekalista electric tourist rickshaws on Thursday. The environmentally friendly vehicles, crafted by students of SMK Negeri 3 Yogyakarta, are projected to become a new tourism transport icon in the city, featuring a digitally integrated operational system via the Jogja Kita application. The launch is part of the Government Investment Centre (PIP) programme under the Ministry of Finance, aimed at strengthening the grassroots economy while encouraging a modern and sustainable transport transformation. Beyond the rickshaw fleet, the programme includes a supporting ecosystem of 12 charging stations, a mobile workshop, eight spare batteries, and a main workshop at SMK Negeri 3 Yogyakarta. Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated that the entire Bekalista ecosystem was built using 100% local Yogyakarta labour, from fabrication and assembly to the electrical systems and teaching factory at the vocational school. He urged that all supporting facilities be well maintained to ensure optimal operations and opened the possibility of further financing support for other school projects. The Minister emphasised that the initiative is not merely about introducing a new mode of transport but about improving the welfare of rickshaw drivers, noting that a short tourist trip can significantly support a family’s daily needs. He also encouraged small business operators to maintain product quality and embrace technology without losing their local identity, while urging the younger generation to use science and technology to solve real community problems. Governor Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X remarked that the launch proves state fiscal policy can directly touch the people and drive the grassroots economy. He highlighted that Bekalista unites three key interests: preserving cultural identity, honouring traditional transport operators, and building environmentally friendly mobility. The Sultan noted that while the becak has long been part of Yogyakarta’s identity, preserving it should not mean preserving the physical burden on its drivers, making technological innovation essential for a more dignified livelihood. He expressed hope that Bekalista would become part of a cultural mobility system connecting tourist sites, traditional markets, craft centres, culinary spots, and cultural villages, thereby moving the local economic chain in line with the philosophy of Hamemayu Hayuning Bawono. Following the ceremony, both officials took a ride on the new electric rickshaws around Alun-alun Kidul, greeting residents along the route.