Free Mudik Programme Becomes Solution for Citizens to Return to Hometowns
Jakarta — Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi launched the annual Free Mudik programme, dispatching migrants heading to Central Java at the Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) in Jakarta on Monday, 16 March 2026. The provincial government initiative received substantial support from various stakeholders, including AQUA.
“Mudik is a tradition for Central Java communities, and we have prepared buses to transport migrants to all districts across Central Java,” Ahmad Luthfi said during the departure ceremony.
Luthfi reported that 325 bus units were deployed this year, an increase from 289 buses in the previous year. The fleet comprises 70 units from the Central Java Provincial Government, 175 units from regency and city governments throughout Central Java, 53 units from Bank Jateng, 17 units from PT Jasa Raharja, eight buses from PT Semen Gresik, and one bus each from Perum Perumnas and AQUA.
The former Central Java Police Chief noted that the number of migrants participating in the programme this year also increased to approximately 19,000 residents. He attributed the increase to the strong public appeal of the free mudik initiative.
“The number of migrants has increased from last year, as the public is more attracted to the free programme, allowing them to save on travel expenses,” he stated.
The free mudik programme aims to assist Central Java migrants, particularly those employed in informal sectors such as street vendors, construction workers, domestic workers, persons with disabilities, motorbike taxi drivers, and minibus operators. Simultaneously, he appreciated the collaboration of all parties, including AQUA, in ensuring the success of the free mudik initiative.
“We brought everyone together to alleviate the burden on our people working abroad, as they are truly our foreign exchange heroes,” he said.
Beyond bus provision, AQUA donated over 15,000 complimentary bottled mineral water bottles to maintain hydration for migrants during their journey. Arif, a free mudik participant heading to Klaten, appreciated all contributors, including AQUA, for supporting the programme. The 43-year-old man, travelling with his wife and three children, expressed gratitude for the assistance provided.
“Praise be to God, I am grateful to everyone for facilitating our journey home to our hometown,” he said.
Arif reported saving up to 7 million rupiah on bus tickets and meal expenses for his entire family’s return journey. He indicated that these savings could be allocated to more pressing household needs.
Karyanto Wibowo, Senior Director of Public Affairs and Sustainability at Danone Indonesia, expressed satisfaction in helping communities reunite with families in their hometowns. He stated that AQUA will continue to be a refreshing companion for migrants and maintain hydration needs during travel with 100 per cent pure products from carefully selected water sources and guaranteed quality. AQUA has supported the Free Mudik programme organised by the Central Java Provincial Government for several years.
“We are prepared to accompany migrants on their journey, as it is important to meet hydration needs during this long mudik journey, as maintaining proper hydration significantly affects migrants’ focus and freshness throughout their travel,” Karyanto said.
Another mudik participant heading to Wonogiri, Wahyu Suryana, expressed similar sentiments. Although participating for the first time, he reported experiencing significant benefits from the free mudik programme.
“Currently, a single ticket costs around 700,000 rupiah; it is better to participate in this free programme than spend money,” said Wahyu, who travelled with both parents.
Wahyu operates a mobile coffee stand with his father near Pasar Rebo market. Their business generates a maximum daily income of approximately 100,000 rupiah.
The free mudik programme significantly eased their financial burden in returning to their hometown. He hoped the programme would continue annually with increased bus capacity.
“I am grateful, and given the rising bus fares now, this helps reduce costs to return to Java,” he said.