Returnees Experience Impact of Infrastructure Development in Central Java, Here is Their Assessment
Kiki Rizki Fauzi (37), a returnee from Magelang Regency heading back to Depok, has truly felt the changes in his home area during the week of mudik. He assesses that the most visible progress is in the infrastructure and tourism sectors.
“Now there has been much progress. The roads are tidier, and recreational spots have increased,” he said in a written statement on Wednesday (25/3/2026).
He said this while resting at the Rest Area KM 389 on the Semarang-Batang Toll Road, specifically in Weleri, Kendal Regency, on Wednesday (25/3).
During his time in his hometown, he visited Ketep Pass to enjoy the beauty of Mount Merapi and Merbabu up close.
A similar experience was felt by Yuni Susilowati (32), a returnee from Pekalongan who works in Bandung. During her mudik journey, she took the time to tour several areas in Central Java, including Purworejo and Purwodadi Grobogan.
According to her, the presence of new toll road sections has contributed to a more enjoyable travel experience.
“I’m really pleased; the roads are smooth, not too stressful. The infrastructure now feels much better,” she said.
Not only about the roads, Yuni also highlighted the services at several stopping points, including rest areas. She was impressed by the cleanliness of the facilities and the friendliness of the people.
“The rest area is clean, and the people are polite. That’s what makes the journey comfortable,” she said, enjoying several facilities at the Mudik Post at the Rest Area as she prepared to return to Bandung.
Another story comes from M. Hikari Aslam (19), a returnee from Pemalang. He admits that as a small town, the facilities in his area are not yet comparable to big cities. However, he sees improvements, especially in road conditions.
“Now it’s better than last year, although the outskirts still need repairs,” he said.
He also highlighted the emergence of a new public space in the form of City Walk in Pemalang, which he believes can stimulate the local economy. The area is now filled with small and medium enterprises, cafes, and has become a favourite spot for young people.
“It’s nice for hanging out, especially at night. The service is also comfortable,” he said.
Meanwhile, Joko Taryono (50), a returnee from Kebumen, views the development in Central Java from a broader perspective.
Furthermore, he acknowledges that the condition of road infrastructure, especially provincial roads, tends to be good, especially because they are routinely repaired ahead of Eid.
He sees that the private sector is quite active in driving development, particularly in tourism and commercial businesses. This is evident from the emergence of various new tourist spots and culinary options.
During mudik, Joko chose to visit Pantai Kembar in Kebumen, a destination that is relatively less crowded compared to other popular beaches. For him, the experience of touring a less packed place is actually more comfortable.
“The service is friendly, and the rates are still reasonable. Some even have voluntary tickets. That’s very helpful for visitors,” said the man who was heading back to Jakarta.
Previously, the Governor of Central Java, Ahmad Luthfi, stated that road infrastructure development is one of the provincial government’s priorities because it plays an important role in supporting community mobility and regional economic growth.
“We build these roads not just physically, but so that the movement of people and goods can run smoothly and safely,” said Luthfi.
According to him, road infrastructure development is also part of efforts to open new economic growth centres in the regions.
That hope is not just empty talk. For information, Central Java recorded a brilliant economic performance throughout 2025.
Based on data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), Central Java’s economic growth reached 5.37% (y-on-y) in Q4-2025. This achievement positions the province above the national average growth of 5.11%.