Habitat Updates
Bogor, May 13, 2026 – A sense of anxiety never truly left Ahmad’s mind. Every night as he left for work, his thoughts remained at home—with his wife and daughter, who had to endure living in a fragile house.
Ahmad (48), a daily factory worker, lives with his small family in Karanggan Village, Gunung Putri District, Bogor Regency. With an unstable income, he can only manage to cover daily necessities. If there is any money left, it goes toward minor home repairs—just enough to prevent severe leaks when it rains.
The house they lived in was far from adequate. Its walls were made of weathered bamboo panels, the roof tiles were fragile, and the structure had weakened over time. “When there’s heavy rain and strong winds, we’re afraid the house might collapse,” Ahmad said.
This worry grew even stronger because Ahmad often works night shifts. “Every time I go to work, I worry about my wife and child at home. It’s always on my mind—I can’t feel at ease, I’m afraid something might happen to the house,” he explained.
But it wasn’t only about safety that weighed on him. As a father, his heart felt even heavier when he learned that his daughter felt embarrassed about their home.
“My daughter told me that when her friends want to come over, she always says, ‘not at my house.’ Maybe she understands the condition of our home—that it’s not nice,” Ahmad shared. “As a parent, I understand. She must feel embarrassed because her home isn’t like others.”
Seeing this situation, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, with support from Pakuwon Peduli, stepped in to bring new hope. Through a housing program, Ahmad’s home was rebuilt along with 19 other families in Karanggan Village. In addition, support was provided to 20 families through the construction of household toilets, as well as the improvement of five public facilities in the area.
“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Pakuwon for helping my family. This support means so much to us,” Ahmad said gratefully.
Now, Ahmad’s house stands strong, with neatly painted blue walls, a sturdy roof, and a much safer structure. This transformation is not only visible physically but is also deeply felt in their daily lives.
Ahmad admits that the new house has changed many things. He is no longer haunted by worry every time he leaves for work. There are no more concerns about leaks or the risk of collapse. The burden he once carried has gradually lifted.
More than that, the house has restored the family’s confidence and dignity. His daughter no longer feels ashamed. She now feels comfortable inviting her friends over to study together—something that once felt impossible.
The most tangible change soon followed. After several months of living in the new home, his daughter showed improved academic performance. From previously ranking third in her class, she has now risen to second place.
Ahmad’s story is proof that a decent home is not merely a place to live, but a vital foundation that affects many aspects of life—from safety and health to confidence and a child’s future.
There are still many families like Ahmad’s who are waiting for the opportunity to experience similar change. Let’s be part of this transformation and help more families gain access to safe and decent housing for a better life.
Writer: Kevin Herbian
(kh/av)
