Potential for Social Jealousy Behind ASN's Weekly Friday WFH

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – The government’s policy of work from home (WFH) for civil servants (ASN), implemented since 1 April 2026 to save fuel, remains a subject of debate. Many people wonder whether this Friday WFH policy can truly reduce energy consumption or not. Furthermore, many in society are concerned that this home-working programme could hinder existing public services. Public policy expert Trubus Rahardiansyah believes this WFH programme could create a hole of social jealousy in the midst of society, not just among fellow employees. This social jealousy also occurred during the Covid-19 pandemic when outdoor activities were restricted, leading ASN to also WFH. “There’s a perception that ‘those who WFH have it easy, not working but still getting allowances’. This jealousy is not only among employees but also from the public,” said Trubus when contacted by Kompas.com on Monday (11/5/2026). This jealousy arises because the public feels they have already paid expensive taxes, but when they need public services on Fridays, the ASN are not working from the office. Trubus assesses that the public will feel even more jealous if the government always plans annual PNS salary increases amid the Friday WFH policy. With clear and written regulations, ASN who do not get WFH slots will understand and no longer feel jealous. “For example, there are ASN whose homes are far away but still have to come in because their agency is not WFH, while others don’t,” said Trubus. This policy also brings issues not only among workers who do not get WFH slots but also those required to work from home. Trubus believes that not all ASN or private sector workers have adequate internet networks and comfortable homes for working. Those who do not have comfortable spaces to work at home usually seek places outside, such as cafes.