TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President Joko ‘Jokowi’ Widodo has instructed for the immediate distribution of the entire social protection and social security package program, geared to dampen the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I have ordered for it (social aid) to immediately be executed and distributed to the people," President Jokowi said in a limited video conference meeting, in the Presidential Palace in Bogor, on the topic of preparing for the coming Ramadhan, on Thursday, April 2, 2020.

The social aid program requested by the President for immediate distribution includes the Hopeful Family Program (PKH), food staples card program, and the pre-employment card program, as well as the electricity tariff discount program for 450 VA and 900 VA customers.

“If this (social aid program) can be executed soon, it will be better for our people,” Jokowi added.

Furthermore, the President has also asked his staff to ensure the logistics in distributing food staples ahead of the coming Ramadhan and Eid al-Fitr, as Jokowi wants basic needs to be available in markets at normal prices.

"I hope that the Minister of Home Affairs would warn the regions that blocked the road in their area, so that the logistics distribution will not be disrupted. I have reports from 3 regions, rice is disrupted because the road is closed. Please let the regional heads be informed of this," Jokowi added.

ANTARA | DIO SUHENDA (INTERN TRANSLATOR)