Heaptalk, Jakarta – Minister of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) Meutya Hafid announced on Tuesday (04/08), that the ministry will rapidly initiate discussions regarding the technicalities of distributing 1,000 units of subsidized housing designated for journalists. This announcement follows a recent meeting with Minister of Public Housing and Settlements (PKP) Maruarar Sirait, head of Indonesia Statistics Amalia Widya Santi, BP Tapera, BTN, Pers Council, and PWI on Tuesday at the PKP Ministry offices.
“Yes, we will discuss it as soon as possible, this week,” Minister Meutya stated at the PKP Ministry office, Wisma Mandiri.
She emphasized the urgency of the matter, given that a mutual agreement was reached during the meeting to deliver 100 subsidized houses to journalists by May 6th.
“We have agreed to hand over the houses in 6th May, so the Ministry of Komdigi must act swiftly,” Meutya added.
During the meeting, Minister Meutya underscored the significance of this initiative, emphasizing that it would greatly benefit many journalists who are still facing financial hardships. Drawing from her own experiences as a journalist for ten years, Meutya noted, “I realize that not all journalists are prosperous and have access to affordable housing financing.”
This program is seen as a crucial support mechanism for the profession, enhancing the welfare of journalists and recognizing their vital role as a bridge between the government and the populace.
For this initiative, Minister Meutya, further, expressed her appreciation for the efforts of the PKP Ministry and the attention given to journalists’ welfare. “I sincerely appreciate Minister Ara for paying close attention to the well-being of journalists. This aligns with President Prabowo’s mandate,” she remarked.
During the meeting, Minister Maruarar Sirait, also known as Minister Ara, acknowledged the crucial role of President Prabowo in facilitating this program. He stated that the initiative has gained momentum thanks to support from the President, leading to significant policies, including a 0% VAT and exemptions on property acquisition taxes or known as BPHTB and PGB.
“This is all thanks to guidance from President Prabowo, allowing us to create policies that favor the people,” Minister Ara explained.
Moreover, Minister Meutya expressed hopes for an increased allocation of subsidized housing units for the following year. “Can we increase the allocation beyond 1,000 units next year?” she inquired during the discussions. Minister Ara assured her that he would do his utmost to expand the allocation.
The meeting also addressed an increase in the maximum income cap for this program, especially for the Jabodetabek region. The income threshold for unmarried individuals has risen from 7 million to 12 million rupiah, while for married individuals, it has increased from 8 million to 13 million rupiah, a change attributed to the high inflation rates in the area.
