Deputy Chair of the National Solidarity Movement (GSN) Foundation Nanik Sudaryati Deyang conveyed the information in Jombang District, East Java, during the handover of 100 electric pedicabs to local drivers on Monday.
“These pedicabs are Mr. President’s personal donation. In fact, he has been providing this form of aid since 2024,” she told the press.
Deyang, who also serves as Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), pointed out that President Prabowo has ordered 10 thousand electric pedicabs from state-owned defense company PT Pindad and another 1,000 units from state-run electronics company PT Len.
She added that in 2024, each pedicab was priced at Rp15 million (around US$900), but the price has risen to Rp22 million (over US$1,300) this year, noting that production for the orders is still ongoing.
Elaborating further, she highlighted that the pedicab modernization initiative stems from the head of state’s eagerness to empower and assist elderly citizens in independently improving their welfare.
“Why not provide business capital? Because Mr. President is aware that not everyone shares the spirit of entrepreneurship,” she explained, noting that Prabowo is especially concerned about those who have spent decades renting pedicabs to earn a living.
Deyang further stated that the donation program includes training for technicians assigned to provide free, round-the-clock maintenance for beneficiaries.
Considering the support provided, she expressed hope that the drivers will make the best use of their new pedicabs and refrain from reselling them. She also encouraged local governments and police offices to support the president’s initiative.
On November 17, President Prabowo said he plans to replace traditional pedicabs across Indonesia with electric motorcycles as part of a broader effort to modernize transport and support national industrial goals.
He also instructed ministers to draft measures to enforce a planned rule capping the age of pedicab drivers at 70.
According to him, the pedicab modernization effort is linked to wider ambitions, including preparations for Indonesia to produce its own national cars and motorcycles in pursuit of the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.
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Translator: Asmaul C, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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