Malang, en.SERU.co.id – Perum Jasa Tirta I (PJT I) has dispatched 377 participants using 10 buses to nine destination cities as part of its free mudik (Eid homecoming) program for Lebaran 2026. The initiative, running since 2023, continues to generate high enthusiasm from the public— the online quota was fully booked within just one hour of opening.
Director General of Perum Jasa Tirta I, Fahmi Hidayat, explained that this year’s departures were scheduled earlier to ensure participants arrive at their destinations sooner. In particular, trips to Jakarta and Bandung are targeted to reach by 7:00–8:00 PM, avoiding late-night or early-morning arrivals.
“This program is part of the company’s Social and Environmental Responsibility (TJSL). We ask for your prayers so that the company’s performance and profits improve, allowing more benefits for the community—one of which is this free mudik program,” Fahmi stated enthusiastically.
Quota, Fleet, and Destinations Increase Every Year
Fahmi aims to expand the number of participants, buses, and destinations annually. The program has shown consistent growth:
- 2023: 6 buses, 242 passengers, 6 cities
- 2024: 7 buses, 265 passengers, 7 cities
- 2025: 7 buses, 317 passengers, 7 cities
- 2026: 10 buses, 377 passengers, 9 cities
He hopes to add more vehicles and new routes in coming years. While currently limited to Java Island, future expansions could include outer islands like Bali and Sumatra, especially as PJT I’s operational areas may extend to North Sumatra and Bali pending presidential decree.
This year, PJT I deployed eight large buses (45-passenger capacity each) and two medium buses (30-passenger capacity each). Departures occurred from two points: two buses originating from Jakarta (via Solo–Surabaya–Malang), and eight from PJT I’s head office in Malang.
The nine routes for 2026 include:
- Malang – Ngawi – Madiun – Ponorogo (new route)
- Malang – Blitar – Tulungagung – Trenggalek
- Jakarta – Surabaya – Malang
- Malang – Bekasi – Jakarta – Tangerang
- Malang – Cirebon – Bandung
- Malang – Tuban – Rembang – Pati – Kudus – Semarang (northern route)
- Malang – Solo – Salatiga – Semarang (central toll route)
- Malang – Klaten – Yogyakarta – Purworejo – Kebumen – Purwokerto
- Malang – Probolinggo – Jember – Banyuwangi
Support for Passengers and Bus Crew
To help participants maintain their fasting during Ramadan, PJT I provided goodie bags containing pillows, canned snacks, bread, rice, mineral water, and basic medicines (for diarrhea, colds, headaches, stomach issues, etc.) in every vehicle to address potential travel discomforts.
Bus drivers and crew underwent pre-departure health checks by company doctors, including blood pressure measurements and physical examinations, to ensure they were fit for the journey.
High Demand and Early Announcement Boost Participation
Interest far exceeded capacity—more than twice the available spots—but PJT I conducted re-verification to confirm participants’ seriousness. Announcements were made in two phases via banners at the office and Instagram (@perumjasatirta1): a pre-announcement on February 6, 2026, and the official opening on February 20, 2026, about a month before Eid.
Participants paid a refundable deposit of Rp100,000 per person (or Rp200,000 per family) as a guarantee of commitment—no cancellations allowed. The deposit is fully returned upon departure, along with the goodie bag, making the program completely free. (rhd)
