Three-Month Salary Delay Leaves Teachers in Financial Hardship Before Idulfitri

SMA honorary teachers in Batam are facing severe financial strain after their salaries were delayed for nearly three months. Many have resorted to borrowing money to cover daily expenses, while authorities promise payment before Idulfitri.

Honorary teachers in Batam have expressed frustration over the prolonged delay in salary payments, which has left many struggling to afford basic necessities. Rahma, a teacher at SMAN 27 Batam, voiced her disappointment, stating,

“It has been three months, and we still haven’t been paid. We were told it would be transferred this week, but nothing has arrived.” With Idulfitri approaching, the uncertainty has placed additional pressure on the affected teachers.

The delay, which started in January 2025, was reportedly caused by administrative hurdles involving contract renewals and budget adjustments in Kepri’s regional government. Initially, the first phase of payments was processed, but the second phase remains stalled.

“We signed the contract on March 6, yet payments have not been made,” Rahma added, noting that teachers typically receive their salaries by the 5th of each month.

Kepri’s Secretary, Adi Prihantara, explained that the delay was due to adjustments in the budget and administrative approvals.

“The Education Office has assured that payments will be completed within the week,” he said. According to him, once all contract and approval documents are finalized, the payment order will be issued to the Regional Financial Agency for processing. He emphasized that funds were available but tied to procedural requirements.

Wagub Kepri, Nyanyang Haris Pratamura, confirmed that the government had finalized discussions and assured teachers that their salaries would be disbursed before Idulfitri.

“It has been settled and will be paid soon. Hopefully, before Lebaran, all salaries will be credited to teachers’ accounts,” he said. He further clarified that while the delay was caused by budget efficiency measures, teachers’ salaries were never at risk of being cut. “The adjustments only affected official trips and ceremonial expenses, not teachers’ salaries,” he added.

The ongoing salary delay highlights concerns over financial security for public sector employees in Kepri, particularly those under provincial administration. With Batam’s role as a growing education and economic hub, such delays could affect the region’s reputation for reliable governance. Timely salary disbursement is crucial not only for local stability but also for fostering confidence among educators and investors looking at Batam’s development.

Sources: Gokepri (2025), Ulasan (2025)

Keywords: Batam, SMA Teachers, Salary Delayed, Kepri Government, Financial Hardship