Education Minister Abdul Mu'ti has urged students living near their schools to walk or bike there to support President Prabowo Subianto's energy efficiency campaign. The appeal was made in Jakarta on Monday, March 30, 2026.
Education Minister Abdul Mu'ti stated the appeal to revive the biking habit popular during the Covid-19 pandemic, especially amid oil crisis threats from wars in Gulf and Middle East countries.
"For example, we urge those whose homes are close to school, and if it's safe and comfortable, there's no harm in walking or returning to biking during Covid. Why not continue that habit? It's healthy, saves energy, and environmentally clean," said Abdul Mu'ti.
He also encouraged schools to promote waste recycling with students to convert it into eco-friendly energy sources. Additionally, Mu'ti called on local governments to improve public transport services so students can use them as an option.
He noted that students currently prefer motorbikes due to inadequate safe and comfortable public transport. "Now there's a tendency for some children to prefer motorbikes over public transport. In my view, if there's safe, comfortable public transport, children can go to school using it. That's more energy-efficient and reduces pollution. This is a challenge for local governments," he said.
Previously on March 19, Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya stated that President Prabowo Subianto instructed energy efficiency measures targeting specific sectors.
