Pekanbaru City Government Launches Free WiFi in Public Spaces Without APBD

The Mayor of Pekanbaru, Agung Nugroho, has launched the 1,000 free WiFi programme. In fact, this community‑driven initiative will be delivered without using the regional budget (APBD).

The launch was marked by signing a Memorandum of Understanding between the Pekanbaru City Government and the Indonesian Internet Service Providers Association (APJII). Mayor Agung personally signed the programme alongside APJII Riau Chairman Trio Gunawan at the Government Office, Tenayan Raya.

The 1,000 free WiFi programme will be enjoyed by residents of Pekanbaru at several locations in stages. Public spaces are the primary target of the collaboration described as a ‘duet of the City Government and the private sector’.

“This programme is without APBD; we are engaging the private sector to provide free WiFi services to the people of Pekanbaru,” said Mayor Agung after the MoU signing on Wednesday (4 March 2026).

APJII itself will install free WiFi at 200 points in the Beloved City. Meanwhile, for the remaining 800 points, the City Government will partner with other business entities.

According to Agung, the main target for the free WiFi rollout is all Trans Metro Pekanbaru bus stops. The free WiFi will also reach other public spaces such as mosques, Posyandu, and Open Green Spaces.

“From this MoU, we are already moving forward; at a single WiFi point, up to 500 users can be connected,” he explained.

The programme aligns with Agung Nugroho’s pledge to thousands of ride‑hailing drivers during Sahur On The Road (SOTR) last week, when drivers asked for free WiFi facilities in public spaces and common gathering spots.

APJII Pekanbaru Chapter Chairman Trio Gunawan said he fully supports the commitment to provide free WiFi services.

“This cooperation with the City Government is one of the ways for us to bring services closer to the public by providing free WiFi. We will carry out this commitment,” he said.