Stories of Change
That afternoon, precisely at four o’clock, sunlight softly filtered through the leaves and fell on the blue walls of Iqballudin’s new house. The walls stood firm, as if bearing witness to the significant changes in the life of this small family in Babakan Madang, Bogor Regency. The Habitat for Humanity Indonesia team visited Iqballudin’s home once again, now fully habitable. There was a sense of pride in seeing how the family cared for their new house. Just one day after construction was completed, Iqballudin had already built a simple kitchen on his own, a clear sign of his determination to provide a better life for his wife and children.
Before this new house arrived, the Iqballudin family’s life was full of limitations. Iqballudin, a 41-year-old day laborer, relied on a daily wage of only IDR 50,000 to meet the family’s basic needs. Together with his wife, Siti Romyanah (36), a homemaker, they raised three school-aged children. Yet their old house made everything much more difficult.
Their previous home had no foundation, consisting merely of a simple structure made of GRC panels and woven bamboo. Without a kitchen or toilet, the family had to depend on relatives’ homes for cooking and bathing. To make matters worse, termites began to infest the walls and pillars, further weakening the structure.
With tears in her eyes, Siti recalled the constant fear that haunted her. “The termites had reached the top. I felt like the house was going to collapse. I was very worried about the children. If there was a leak, I was afraid the kids would get sick, especially the little one,” she said, her voice trembling.
Those memories became part of a long journey, living in a home that never provided a sense of safety. Nights were often shadowed by anxiety, especially when heavy rains fell.
However, all of that changed through the CEO Build 2025 event. Thanks to the support of Mr. Edwin Soeryadjaya in collaboration with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, a new house for the Iqballudin family finally stood tall. The house is sturdy, safe, and vastly different from the fragile structure they had before.
Iqballudin could not hide his emotion as he expressed his gratitude. “Alhamdulillah, I feel very happy and grateful. My house is now very solid, unlike before when it was fragile and almost collapsing,” he said with a sense of relief.
Siti added with a calmer smile, “There are so many changes. At least now we can sleep peacefully every night without worry. The children are happy, and we are all happy.”
Read also: Building Indonesia: POSCO and Habitat for Humanity Collaborate to Provide Decent Homes in Cilegon
This transformation is not just about the physical building. Its impact is deeply felt in daily life. Their children are now healthier, no longer exposed to leaks, dampness, and termites. They no longer have to go back and forth to grandparents’ houses just to bathe or use a toilet. Their privacy is better protected, hygiene is improved, and the children’s overall health has increased.
The effect on the children’s education is also significant. A safe and comfortable home allows them to study without worrying about a leaking roof. A healthier home environment gives them the opportunity to focus on school. Iqballudin believes that this house will be the foundation for his children’s future. “At least now the children can study calmly. I want them to get the highest education possible so that their future will be better than mine,” he said with hope.
Furthermore, the new house has boosted the family’s confidence. There is no longer any shame when neighbors or relatives visit. They now have a proper space to welcome guests—a place they can truly call home.
With heartfelt gratitude, Iqballudin once again expressed his thanks. “I am truly grateful to Mr. Edwin and Habitat for this new house. This support means so much to me and my family. May Allah bless this kindness many times over,” he said sincerely.
From a simple home that now stands strong, new hope grows for this small family. A house not only protects from rain and heat but also becomes a place where children’s dreams, health, and future can grow strong. Behind every standing wall lies the story that change is always possible when care is turned into concrete action.
Writer: Kevin Herbian
(kh/av)
