Social Assistance 'Jockeys' Become New Habit Among Residents...

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Amid the harsh realities of life in Jakarta, social assistance should serve as a lifeline. However, in practice, a new habit has emerged among residents: using the services of social assistance jockeys. This practice has grown gradually, stemming from necessity and evolving into a routine. Refa (not her real name, 35), a resident of South Jakarta, admits she initially only helped her neighbours collect their social assistance. For recipients, the collection process is not always straightforward. To redeem subsidised food, residents must register online, obtain a barcode, and then queue for hours. This situation leads some residents to opt for the services of jockeys, turning it into a habit. In a single day, Refa can assist around five people. In a month, the number can reach dozens of recipients. With a fee of Rp 40,000 per card, her earnings can amount to millions of rupiah. On the other hand, Yuni (49) also helps collect social assistance, but without a fixed fee. Her income is around Rp 150,000 to Rp 200,000 per month. “I don’t set a fee; it’s whatever they willingly give, as long as they are content in providing for my children’s sustenance,” she said. She usually assists the elderly and people with disabilities who struggle to use ATMs.