Press Release

Muara Enim, August 14, 2026 – PT Bukit Asam (Persero) Tbk (PTBA) continues to strengthen its commitment to improving the quality of human resources in communities surrounding its operational areas through BIDIKSIBA (Bukit Asam Community Student Scholarship). Launched in 2013, the program provides opportunities for graduates of senior high schools or equivalent institutions from underprivileged families to pursue higher education at vocational institutions.

PTBA President Director Bambang Ismawan said that education is an important foundation for building self-reliant and competitive communities.

“BIDIKSIBA is more than just a scholarship program; it is PTBA’s long-term investment in developing the quality of human resources in communities surrounding our operational areas. We hope the beneficiaries will make the most of this opportunity and, in the future, contribute to their families, communities, and regions,” said Bambang.

In 2026, the BIDIKSIBA program was conducted from February to August. Of the 183 students who registered, 154 students passed the administrative selection. Following psychological tests and field verification, 99 students were selected as candidates and proceeded to the SNBT-UTBK selection process.

PTBA also provided academic enrichment and UTBK tryout sessions to enhance the candidates’ readiness. As a result, 33 students successfully passed the SNBT selection and were officially selected as BIDIKSIBA 2026 beneficiaries.

The 33 beneficiaries will pursue their studies at three vocational higher education institutions: 13 students at Politeknik Negeri Sriwijaya (POLSRI), 5 students at Politeknik Negeri Malang (POLINEMA), and 15 students at Politeknik Negeri Lampung (POLINELA).

All beneficiaries have been formally handed over to their respective institutions, with the handover taking place at POLSRI on July 20, POLINEMA on July 30, and POLINELA on August 3, 2026.

“Congratulations to all BIDIKSIBA 2026 beneficiaries. Their journey is just beginning. We hope they will continue to develop their competencies and character so that they can eventually become professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders who make a positive contribution to society,” said Bambang.

The BIDIKSIBA program is part of PTBA’s commitment to supporting Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No. 4 on Quality Education. Through vocational education, PTBA hopes the program will create greater opportunities for young people while contributing to improved family and community welfare.

“Our hope is that the benefits of BIDIKSIBA will extend beyond the scholarship recipients themselves. After completing their education and entering the workforce, we hope they can create a positive impact on their families and communities. In this way, education can become a pathway to breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering economic independence,” Bambang concluded.