Kemensos tests social aid distribution through Kopdes Merah Putih at 900 sites
In the first phase, Himbara bank agents will still handle payouts at cooperative outlets, while PT Pos covers 3T areas and vulnerable recipients.
Kementerian Sosial is preparing a trial of social aid distribution through Koperasi Desa Merah Putih at 900 sites that are ready to operate. Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf said the scheme will begin to be simulated during the third-quarter 2026 disbursement, with services still carried out by Himbara bank agents at cooperative outlets. Beneficiary data will remain processed by banks, so the disbursement regulations have not changed.
The two programs included in the scheme are Program Keluarga Harapan and Bantuan Pangan Non-Tunai. The government wants to bring withdrawals closer to villages so recipients do not have to travel far to bank branches. PT Pos Indonesia will continue distributing aid to residents in 3T areas and recipients with special conditions, including the elderly and people with severe disabilities. In the House of Representatives, Selly Andriany Gantina warned about the need for DTSEN validity, oversight, and risk mitigation so the change in scheme does not cause delays or irregularities.