DELI SERDANG | INDATANEWS.COM ~ The Deli Serdang Regency Government has announced a major policy shift in the payment system for funeral prayer assistants (Bilal Mayit) and gravediggers, moving from quarterly to monthly disbursements.
The decision was revealed by Regent Asri Ludin Tambunan during a communal iftar event on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at the official regent's residence. The gathering was attended by religious service workers, gravediggers, low-income residents, pedicab drivers, and representatives of various social organizations.
"Starting this month, honorariums will no longer be paid quarterly but monthly. We also plan to increase the amount next year," Asri Ludin said.
A number of bilal mayit (funeral attendants) pose for a group photo with Deli Serdang Regent Asri Tambunan during an iftar gathering with funeral attendants, grave diggers, and Mosque Management Boards (BKM) at the Regent's official residence on Thursday, March 19, 2026. (PHOTO: Edi Saputra)
Reforming the Payment System
Currently, funeral prayer assistants and gravediggers receive Rp450,000 per quarter. With the new system, payments will be distributed monthly, providing more consistent financial support.
The local government is also preparing to increase the honorarium amount in the coming year as part of broader efforts to improve the welfare of workers in religious and community service sectors.
Funeral attendants pose with Deli Serdang Regent Asri Tambunan after receiving plaques during an iftar gathering with funeral attendants, grave diggers, and Mosque Management Boards (BKM) at the Regent's official residence on Thursday, March 19, 2026. (PHOTO: Edi Saputra)
Expanding Social ProtectionIn addition to payment reforms, the government announced plans to expand social protection programs. Pedicab drivers from low-income households (deciles 1–5) will soon gain access to employment insurance under BPJS Ketenagakerjaan.
The regent also emphasized accelerating data collection to ensure eligible residents are included in subsidized national health insurance programs.
"We must ensure that primary breadwinners receive proper protection. This is our responsibility as a government," he stated.
Hundreds of bilal mayit attended an iftar gathering with funeral attendants, grave diggers, and Mosque Management Boards (BKM) at the Regent's official residence on Thursday, March 19, 2026. (PHOTO: Edi Saputra)
Tax Relief and Data-Driven AssistanceAnother key initiative includes exempting low-income households from land and building tax (PBB). The administration will also rely on the PAS JEMPOL program as a centralized database to better target government aid.
In the long term, the government aims to improve the economic conditions of beneficiaries.
"Our goal is for them to move out of the low-income category by next year," Asri Ludin added.
He concluded by urging local officials to better understand community needs and act as a bridge between the government and the public, while also extending his greetings ahead of Eid al-Fitr.
(IDNC)REPORTER: Edi Saputra