Government Prepares Transport Stimulus, Prabowo Cancels Russia Trip

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The government is preparing a transport tariff stimulus package for the second half of 2026, aimed at boosting economic movement during the school holiday period and the Christmas and New Year celebrations, according to Head of the Government Communication Body Muhammad Qodari. “Entering the second semester of 2026, the government is preparing a stimulus package directed at encouraging economic movement in two strategic months,” Qodari stated during a press conference in Jakarta.

Meanwhile, the verification process for prospective recipients of the Self-Help Housing Stimulant Assistance (BSPS) programme, commonly known as the house renovation scheme, has reached approximately 300,000 units out of an initial target of around 400,000 units as of early June 2026. Qodari noted that the acceleration of the programme is currently focused on verifying prospective beneficiaries, with completion targeted for June 2026.

Qodari also emphasised that the government under President Prabowo Subianto will continue to implement the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, as it constitutes a direct mandate from the people. He explained that when Prabowo ran for president two years ago, he presented his vision and mission to the public, which included several priority programmes, one of which was MBG.

Separately, Deputy Speaker of House Commission VII Lamhot Sinaga assessed that communal viewing events for the 2026 World Cup can serve as a space for community togetherness while simultaneously driving local economic movement through increased community-based business activity. He noted that public enthusiasm for the quadrennial football tournament can be harnessed to create a positive economic impact, particularly for micro, small, and medium enterprises in the regions.

State Secretary Minister and Presidential Spokesperson Prasetyo Hadi clarified the reason President Prabowo Subianto cancelled his planned visit to Russia this week to attend the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit in Kazan on 17–18 June 2026. Prasetyo stated that President Prabowo had recently met with Russian President Vladimir Putin and had also met with several leaders of ASEAN member countries during the ASEAN Summit in Cebu, Philippines.