BANGKA BARAT – Travelers participating in PT Timah and the Ministry of SOEs' Free Homecoming Program have started arriving at Tanjung Kalian Mentok Port, West Bangka Regency, since March 24, 2025.
This year, 186 participants in the "Safe Homecoming, Arriving at Destination" program reached Tanjung Kalian Port on Tuesday (March 25, 2025).
The program was open to not only students but also the general public. After arriving at Tanjung Kalian Mentok Port, the participants continued their journey to various cities and regencies across Bangka Island.
PT Timah's free homecoming initiative has helped residents from Bangka Belitung, Riau Islands, and Riau provinces who live away from their hometowns to return home for Eid al-Fitr 1446 H.
Although PT Timah arranged transportation to the participants' final destinations, some parents chose to personally pick up their children at Tanjung Kalian Mentok Port.
One such parent, Arniawani, expressed her gratitude after welcoming her two daughters home.
"Alhamdulillah, my daughters, Amani and Sumaya, have arrived in Mentok. The longing to reunite and celebrate Eid together is overwhelming. Thank you, PT Timah, for easing our financial burden. With the current economic situation, this assistance is truly a relief," she said.
Bella, a third-semester student at UMI Bogor, shared her experience, emphasizing how the program provided not only financial relief but also valuable insights and new friendships.
"Alhamdulillah, this program is a great help for students. Through PT Timah's free homecoming, I gained knowledge and made new friends. I hope this program continues in the coming years. Thank you, PT Timah—wishing you continued success!" said Bella, a resident of South Bangka.
Similarly, Viki, a student at UIN Bandung from Terentang Village, West Bangka, praised the homecoming experience.
"This is my second time joining PT Timah’s homecoming program. Alhamdulillah, the journey was safe, and the weather was favorable. The experience was excellent—comfortable buses, meals provided throughout the journey, including sahur and iftar. It was truly satisfying," he said.
Another participant, Darni, a general traveler from Bogor, also appreciated the program's benefits.
"Alhamdulillah, PT Timah's free homecoming program has been a huge financial relief. Throughout the journey, we felt like family. Thank you, PT Timah—may you continue to grow and sustain this program in the future," she hoped.
Through this initiative, PT Timah continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting communities and strengthening the spirit of togetherness during Eid celebrations. (*)
