Prabowo Subianto Distributes 25,000 Pindad Electric Rickshaws to Elderly Drivers Across Java

President Prabowo Subiability has distributed 25,000 units of electric rickshaws, produced by PT Pindad Bandung, to rickshaw drivers throughout the island of Java. This assistance does not utilise the state budget (APBN), but is instead sourced from the President’s personal funds, distributed through the National Solidarity Movement Foundation (GSN).

The Director of Business Planning and Development of the GSN Foundation, Retired Major General Firman Dahlan, explained that the first production phase by PT Pindad is currently limited. The aid is focused on elderly rickshaw drivers aged 55 and above to support the economic productivity of their families.

“These environmentally friendly electric rickshaws are being provided to every region, and in the future, there will be additional units based on requests from cities and regencies. The goal is to help the elderly continue to earn a living to improve their family’s economy,” said Firman Dahlan in Tasikmalaya on Tuesday.

Beyond the economic aspect, Firman added that the use of these electric rickshaws is expected to support the tourism sector and assist MSMEs in the regions. However, he emphasised a specific mandate from President Prabowo that this assistance must be well-maintained.

“The President’s message is that these electric rickshaws must not be pawned, transferred to others, rented out, or have their components altered, such as removing stickers or cables. We also request that the Tasikmalaya City Government prepares free Public Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (SPKLU),” he asserted.

Based on distribution data in the East Priangan region, Tasikmalaya City and Regency received 220 units, Ciamis received 160 units, Banjar City received 200 units, and Pangandaran received 246 units.

The Mayor of Tasikmalaya, Viman Alfarizi Ramadhan, welcomed this initiative as it aligns with local government programmes promoting the use of environmentally friendly vehicles. Regarding charging infrastructure, Viman noted that facilities are currently available at PLN offices and the City Park area.

“This assistance greatly eases the burden on the elderly in earning a living. For charging, in addition to existing points, rickshaw drivers can also charge batteries independently at their respective homes,” concluded Viman.