Prabowo Promises Mortgages Up to 40 Years, Workers Demand 0% Down Payment and Flat Instalments
JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - President Prabowo Subianto’s plan to provide a mortgage repayment scheme of up to 40 years for workers has been met with varied responses from labour groups.
Several workers hope the programme will be fully realised with light instalments, 0% down payments, and non-burdensome requirements.
General Secretary of the Independent Manufacturing Workers’ Union Federation (GSPMI) Tarman said he hopes the promise can be fulfilled by the government.
However, he also alluded to several previous government promises that, in his view, have not been fully realised.
“Hopefully it’s true. But during the President’s announcements in previous years about abolishing outsourcing, that hasn’t been realised yet,” Tarman told Kompas.com on the sidelines of International Labour Day around Jalan Medan Merdeka Selatan, Jakarta, on Friday (1/5/2026).
“Our hope for workers is 0% down payment. And the instalments should also be flat,” Tarman said.
Tarman assessed that current subsidised housing instalments are still quite high for some workers. Therefore, workers hope the government can introduce a more affordable repayment scheme.
“Subsidised houses are now above Rp 1 million per month. If possible, below Rp 1 million,” he said.
In addition, Tarman hopes the provided housing locations are not too far from workers’ residences or work areas.
“If available, we want ones close to home for investment, at least for the children’s future,” he said.
Meanwhile, Field Coordinator of the Linfox Logistics Indonesia Workers’ Union (SPPLLI) Totong Rohimat said his side appreciates it if the government truly provides affordable housing instalments for workers.
“If the instalments can be affordable, then we appreciate it. We very much appreciate it if Mr Prabowo directs towards that,” Totong told Kompas.com at the same location.
“My hope going forward is that the payments don’t disrupt other finances. Because our wages are not yet decent,” he said.