In recent years, the government has stepped up efforts to improve the homecoming experience. In 2026, the focus has shifted toward family-centered travel, with greater attention to the comfort and safety of children.
This approach is visible at bus terminals and railway stations, where facilities are being adapted to better serve young travelers. Several ministries are actively involved in ensuring infrastructure supports both mobility and well-being.
Manpower Minister Yassierli recently inspected the Pulo Gebang Integrated Bus Terminal in East Jakarta to assess readiness for the peak travel period.
He highlighted the importance of proper facilities and effective crowd management to prevent overcrowding that could affect passenger comfort, particularly for children.
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Minister of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Arifah Fauzi took a similar approach during a visit to Kampung Rambutan Bus Terminal in East Jakarta, where she not only reviewed facilities but also urged parents to prioritize children’s well-being during travel.
She described mudik as an opportunity to strengthen family bonds and encouraged parents to be more present and attentive to their children.
Fauzi also stressed the importance of limiting children’s exposure to gadgets and social media during the journey, suggesting that parents engage them in conversations and simple activities to create a more meaningful experience.
During a visit to Gambir Railway Station in Central Jakarta, she confirmed the availability of family-friendly facilities designed to accommodate women and children, noting that long queues and waiting times require comfortable spaces for young passengers.
Meanwhile, Primary and Secondary Education Minister Abdul Mu’ti launched a program to promote reading by distributing thousands of children’s books to travelers.
He said the initiative aims to ensure that children remain engaged in learning during the journey while offering an alternative to digital entertainment.
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The government sees books as an effective way to stimulate imagination and encourage curiosity, while helping children spend travel time more productively.
Overall, these efforts reflect a broader policy shift that views the homecoming season not only as mass travel but also as an opportunity to enhance safety and comfort, particularly for children.
The strategy combines improvements in infrastructure with non-physical measures, including parenting awareness and alternative forms of engagement for young travelers.
Officials said stronger coordination between the government and transport operators is key to ensuring effective implementation of these measures.
Parents are also expected to play an active role in creating a safe and comfortable environment for their children during travel, with authorities encouraging more direct interaction instead of reliance on digital devices.
Beyond a tradition of mass movement, mudik has become a moment for Indonesians to strengthen family ties, offering children meaningful travel experiences and parents the chance to reconnect.
The government said it remains committed to ensuring that the homecoming season accommodates the needs of children and other vulnerable groups.
With improved facilities, targeted programs, and greater parental awareness, mudik is expected to become a more meaningful and family-oriented experience.
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Translator: Sean Filo, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Primayanti
Copyright © ANTARA 2026
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