President Joko Widodo launched a cash transfer program throughout Indonesia for 2021 in 34 provinces at thepresidential place, Jakarta, Monday.

"The beginning of 2021, I will directly launch cash assistance throughout Indonesia to the receiving community. Once else for the Family Hope Program, the Basic Food and Social Assistance Program," said President Joko Widodo.

Present at the launch of the cash assistance were the Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Muhadjir Effendy, Social Minister Tri Rismaharini, Minister for state-owned enterprises Erick Thohir, Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung and around 30 beneficiaries.

The distribution of aid was also carried out at the same time by the governors in 34 provinces.

"In 2021, we will continue the distribution of social assistance and in the 2021 State Budget, a budget of Rp110 trillion has been prepared for all recipients from Sabang to Merauke from Miangas to Rote Island," the President added.

The purpose of providing this assistance, according to President Jokowi, is to help the community overcome the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We hope that this assistance can alleviate the families affected by COVID-19, then we hope it can also be a trigger to move our national economy, leverage our national economy, strengthen people's purchasing power so that we hope national economic growth will increase and be even better, "said the President.

President Jokowi also advised that aid should be used appropriately and not to buy cigarettes.

"For those who buy groceries, yes to buy basic necessities, don't use it to buy cigarettes, be careful especially, gentlemen, don't use it to buy cigarettes. Buy basic necessities so that it can reduce the burden on families during this pandemic, prioritized to meet basic needs and families. , "said the President.