Indonesia urges DTSEN data updates to ensure accurate social aid

Indonesian authorities are emphasizing the importance of updating the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) to ensure the accuracy of social assistance distribution. Officials warn that inaccurate data leads to both ‘inclusion errors’, where ineligible families receive aid, and ‘exclusion errors’, where eligible families are left out.

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has encouraged citizens to file formal disputes if they find errors in their DTSEN records, such as cases where impoverished individuals are incorrectly listed as wealthy due to identity theft or misused IDs. Disputes can be submitted via the Cek Bansos application, call centers, or official portals.

In Tanjungpinang, local officials noted that factors such as vehicle ownership, land, savings exceeding Rp5 million, and suspected involvement in online gambling can trigger an increase in a family's economic decile, potentially disqualifying them from certain aid programs. Bappenas noted that the BPS will use socio-economic rankings to refine the DTSEN and improve the efficiency of poverty alleviation budgets.