Two Years Away from Home: Student Diwan Anticipates Mother's Chicken Curry

The courtyard of Buleleng Police Station presented a different atmosphere on Monday morning, 16 March 2026. Suitcases, rucksacks and cardboard boxes of gifts lined the side of two buses ready for departure, carrying dozens of people heading home through the free homecoming programme organised by Buleleng Police.

Among the travellers, a student named Diwan was busy arranging his belongings. He disclosed that this was his first time participating in the free homecoming programme.

Diwan explained that he first learned about the programme from friends. To verify its authenticity, he checked through social media. “I first got information from friends, then I checked it on Instagram and found it was indeed true,” he said.

He seized the opportunity immediately. He had not returned home to Jakarta for two years. “Usually, I don’t go home during major holidays, but this time, because I just found out about the free homecoming programme, I decided to go. This is an opportunity to meet my family,” he said.

Diwan’s journey was quite lengthy. He would first travel to Surabaya, then continue by bus to Jakarta.

Although he had not managed to purchase souvenirs due to rushing to depart, he did not worry much about it. What mattered most was returning home and seeing his family. Especially as the holiday approached, his longing for home could no longer be delayed. “Most importantly, I miss my mother’s cooking at home. She usually makes chicken curry, which is a must,” he said with a smile.

According to Diwan, the free homecoming programme was extremely helpful, particularly for migrants who wanted to return home but had limited travel funds. Furthermore, passengers also received health checks and medication supplies for the journey. “It’s quite helpful. Everything has been prepared here, health checks have been conducted, and we’ve been given medicine for the journey,” he said.

Nevertheless, he conveyed a simple hope to the organisers. “If possible, the bus could be upgraded next year so others are more comfortable,” he said.

Buleleng Police Chief AKBP Ruzi Gusman stated that the Mudik Presisi programme aimed to help residents returning home whilst reducing traffic congestion during the homecoming season.

“We are endeavouring to provide public transportation for residents so we can help them return to their hometowns,” Ruzi said.

This year, Buleleng Police prepared two buses, which were provided by their partners. The buses served several destinations in East Java, including Banyuwangi, Situbondo, Pasuruan and Surabaya.

“We have also determined stop points to facilitate residents who will continue their journey with other transport,” he explained.

He hoped the programme would help reduce traffic congestion on routes leading to Gilimanuk Port and East Java regions.

A total of 60 people registered for the free homecoming programme this year. Notably, registration was only open for two days since last Friday because the quota was filled immediately.

“The enthusiasm has been very good. In fact, some said they had been waiting for this homecoming programme year after year,” he said.

Before departure, police conducted thorough inspections of vehicles, drivers and passengers.

“We carry out vehicle checks, then drivers undergo health tests and drug tests. All results came back negative and they are ready to travel,” he said.

Passengers also received health checks and support before departure. After that, the bus was escorted by police officers to Gilimanuk Port.

“We provide escorts until Gilimanuk to ensure the journey is safe and smooth,” he said.

Despite receiving an escort, passengers still followed the standard queue for the ferry crossing like other vehicles. “What we prioritise is the escort from here, ensuring they arrive at Gilimanuk safely,” he said.

That morning, the bus engines started. Passengers boarded one by one whilst waving to officers and family members who had come to see them off.

For some of them, this journey was not merely a homecoming trip. It was also a journey home to ease a longing that had been delayed for far too long.