Free Mass Return Programme Participants from DKI Province Begin Departure on 17 March

Jakarta — The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government will begin dispatching participants in its free mass return programme at the National Monument (Monas) in Central Jakarta on 17 March 2026.

“The Department of Transportation has prepared the return journey facilitated by the DKI Jakarta Government, which will commence on 17 March at Monas,” said DKI Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung at City Hall, Jakarta, on Tuesday.

He stated that the number of returning travellers has increased significantly. Initially, the government estimated approximately 26,000 participants. However, the programme has attracted 30,774 participants. In response, the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has increased the number of buses to accommodate the public’s enthusiasm.

“We now have 709 buses, increased from the 670 previously prepared by the DKI Jakarta Government,” said Pramono.

However, he emphasised that only verified and registered participants will be transported. He urged residents to ensure that only verified individuals come on departure day.

“In Jakarta, everyone must be verified. We will only dispatch those who have been verified. There will be no last-minute additions,” clarified Pramono.

“Only those who have been verified will be transported. There will be no further announcements as all participants have been documented and verified,” stated Syafrin.

Previously, the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government implemented a ticket re-verification process on departure day to ensure that registered participants board and prevent ticket transfers.

Emanuel Kristanto, Head of Road Transport at the DKI Jakarta Department of Transportation, emphasised that free return tickets cannot be transferred or sold to other individuals.

Through the Free Mass Return Programme, the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government provides safe and comfortable public transportation whilst reducing traffic congestion during the Eid holiday period.

“We coordinate with the Department of Social Services to ensure eligible parties receive the programme,” explained Emanuel.

To ensure the safety of returning travellers, the DKI Jakarta Department of Transportation works with the police, military, and relevant policy-making bodies. “Not only during departure, but throughout the journey, officers accompany passengers to their final destination,” said Emanuel.