Gorontalo, Indonesia – The Gorontalo provincial government has announced it will extend Tunjangan Hari Raya (THR), or Eid al-Fitr allowance, to include contract government employees (PPPK) working on a part-time basis. This decision, spearheaded by Governor Gusnar Ismail, aims to provide financial assistance to all civil servants ahead of the upcoming Idulfitri celebrations, a significant holiday in Indonesia. The move comes despite the fact that national regulations concerning THR payments, specifically Government Regulation (PP) Number 9 of 2026, do not explicitly cover part-time PPPK employees.
Governor Ismail, currently serving his second term, has a long history of public service in Gorontalo. According to his official biography, he previously served as Governor from 2009 to 2012 and as Vice Governor from 2001 to 2009. His commitment to the welfare of civil servants is a recurring theme in his administration, and this latest decision underscores that priority. The extension of THR benefits to part-time PPPK workers demonstrates a willingness to go beyond existing regulations to support a broader segment of the provincial workforce.
Expanding THR Eligibility in Gorontalo
The decision to include part-time PPPK employees in the THR distribution was announced on Thursday, March 12, 2026, following a directive from Governor Ismail to the Provincial Finance Agency. Sukril Gobel, Head of the Provincial Finance Agency, confirmed that the policy was enacted despite the absence of specific provisions for this category of worker in PP Number 9 of 2026. “Based on the Governor’s policy, part-time PPPK employees within the Gorontalo Provincial Government will be given THR,” Gobel stated, emphasizing the Governor’s direct involvement in the decision. The regulation, PP Number 9 of 2026, does provide for THR payments to state officials, civil servants (PNS), prospective civil servants (CPNS), and full-time PPPK employees.
The move is particularly significant as it addresses a potential disparity in benefits between different categories of government workers. Part-time PPPK employees often play a crucial role in delivering essential public services, and extending THR benefits to them acknowledges their contribution. The exact amount of THR allocated to part-time PPPK employees is currently under review, but officials have assured that the payment will be made before the Eid al-Fitr holiday and the subsequent collective leave period. Gobel indicated that the disbursement is expected to be completed by Friday, March 13, 2026, at the latest.
Financial Details and Disbursement Timeline
In addition to the THR payments, the Gorontalo Provincial Government is also preparing to disburse Performance Allowance (TPP) for the months of January and February 2026, as well as a THR-related TPP component. The total amount allocated for THR payments to PNS employees is estimated at Rp24.250 billion (approximately $1.54 million USD based on current exchange rates), whereas Rp4.995 billion (approximately $316,000 USD) has been earmarked for full-time PPPK employees. The TPP payments will be based on the amounts disbursed in December 2025. These figures highlight the substantial financial commitment made by the provincial government to support its workforce during the festive season.
The photograph accompanying the initial announcement shows Governor Gusnar Ismail, Vice Governor Idah Syahidah Rusli Habibie, and Regional Secretary Sofian Ibrahim attending a Korpri (Corps of Civil Servants of the Republic of Indonesia) gathering at the Purbakala Museum. This visual underscores the government’s commitment to engaging with and supporting its civil servant workforce.
Impact on Gorontalo’s Workforce and Economy
The decision to extend THR benefits to part-time PPPK employees is expected to have a positive impact on both the morale of the workforce and the local economy. The additional income will allow these employees to better prepare for the Idulfitri celebrations and contribute to increased consumer spending in the province. Idulfitri is a major economic driver in Indonesia, with significant increases in retail sales, travel, and hospitality. By providing financial assistance to a wider segment of the population, the Gorontalo provincial government aims to stimulate economic activity and support local businesses.
The move also reflects a broader trend towards recognizing the contributions of contract workers in the public sector. PPPK employees, who are hired on a contract basis, often perform similar duties to permanent civil servants but may not receive the same level of benefits. Addressing this disparity is becoming increasingly key as governments seek to attract and retain qualified personnel in a competitive labor market. The Gorontalo provincial government’s decision could serve as a model for other regions in Indonesia looking to improve the welfare of their contract workers.
Looking Ahead: Continued Support for Civil Servants
The Gorontalo provincial government has demonstrated a clear commitment to supporting its civil servants through various initiatives, including the timely disbursement of salaries, allowances, and THR. As the province prepares for Idulfitri, the focus remains on ensuring that all government employees have the resources they need to celebrate the holiday with their families, and communities. The government is expected to continue monitoring the economic situation and adjusting its policies as needed to address the evolving needs of its workforce.
The next key date to watch is the completion of the THR disbursement process, expected by March 13, 2026. Following this, the provincial government will likely focus on monitoring the impact of the THR payments on the local economy and preparing for the upcoming fiscal year. Readers are encouraged to visit the official website of the Gorontalo Provincial Government (https://gorontaloprov.go.id/) for further updates and information on government policies and programs.
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