In the past several weeks, the government has expanded several social assistance programs for low-income citizens across the country affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. As stated by Jakartapost.com President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo said that the government had made it a top priority to ensure citizens’ basic needs were met. The President also expressed confidence the government could maintain the purchasing power of low-income people during the crisis.
From cash transfers for Jakarta residents to financial aid for bus drivers, these are the programs the government has launched to help low-income citizens during the outbreak. The President said he hoped the social aid would help dissuade people from participating in the annual Idul Fitri mudik (exodus), which is feared will increase the spread of the disease//JP