Nagekeo, September 10, 2026 – As the recovery phase following the Flores earthquake begins, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia is strengthening its long-term commitment with the Government of Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, to support affected families as they gradually recover and rebuild their lives.

The commitment was marked by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Nagekeo Regent Simplisius Donatus and Habitat for Humanity Indonesia National Director Handoko Ngadiman. The MoU was signed in a hybrid format on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, providing a foundation for collaboration in implementing post-disaster recovery programs in Nagekeo Regency.

Through this partnership, Habitat Indonesia will implement the Flores Housing Recovery program, which focuses on housing recovery and basic services for families affected by the earthquake, particularly in Aesesa District. The program is planned to run for the next year, with coordination involving the local government and relevant stakeholders.

The recovery program will include several forms of support. Habitat Indonesia will support the repair and structural strengthening of 200 homes through a retrofitting approach, targeting homes that sustained light to moderate damage from the earthquake. These efforts aim to help families have safer and more decent homes.

In addition to housing recovery, support will also focus on restoring household access to safe water and sanitation services. Community education and capacity building will also be part of the program through training on Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) practices, as well as principles for safer housing construction and repairs that reduce disaster risks through a Build Back Safer approach.

Recovery efforts will also extend to public facilities affected by the disaster. Habitat Indonesia plans to rehabilitate schools and community health posts to help restore access to education and primary healthcare services for local communities.

“The Government of Nagekeo Regency, together with the community, would like to express our appreciation and gratitude to Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and its donors for the support provided. We welcome this support as part of our collective efforts to help the people of Nagekeo through the post-disaster recovery process,” said Nagekeo Regent Simplisius Donatus.

Starting Recovery with the First Steps

This long-term recovery commitment builds on Habitat Indonesia’s response since the early stages following the disaster. Previously, on August 31, 2026, with support from its donors, Habitat Indonesia distributed 100 Emergency Shelter Kits (ESKs) to earthquake-affected families across five villages in Aesesa District: Aeramo, Marapokot, Nangadhero, Tonggurambang, and Waekokak.

The ESK packages contain various construction and repair tools that families can use to clear earthquake debris and carry out emergency repairs on damaged homes. This support serves as an initial step for families to begin recovering their homes independently, based on the condition of each house.

For Habitat Indonesia, post-disaster recovery does not end with the provision of emergency assistance. Housing repairs, restoration of basic services, community capacity building, and rehabilitation of public facilities all need to be carried out gradually and sustainably.

“The support from Habitat for Humanity Indonesia’s donors is an opportunity to continue doing good and supporting affected families. We hope this assistance will help families gradually restore their homes and rebuild safer lives after the disaster,” said Habitat for Humanity Indonesia National Director Handoko Ngadiman.

Through the Flores Housing Recovery program, Habitat Indonesia and the Government of Nagekeo Regency are working to ensure that the recovery process is well coordinated and responds to the needs of affected communities. Collaboration among different stakeholders is essential to ensure that families receive not only support during the emergency response phase, but also continued assistance to rebuild their homes and lives over the long term.

Post-disaster recovery is a journey that takes time and requires collective efforts from many parties. Therefore, Habitat Indonesia continues to welcome opportunities for #SahabatHabitat to take part in supporting families affected by the Flores earthquake.

Let us work together to help families in Flores restore their homes, rebuild their lives, and create a safer future. Make a donation through the information provided on the campaign flyer.

Writer: Kevin Herbian

Graphic: Tias Ester Widhari

(kh/av)

 

Karawang, September 10, 2026 – The cheerful voices of students echo through the school grounds as the bell rings, marking the beginning of another school day at SDN Wanakerta 1 in Teluk Jambe Barat District, Karawang Regency. Every day, 184 students attend classes at the school. However, the learning process has faced challenges since one of the classrooms sustained significant damage.

The roof of the classroom had deteriorated over time and eventually collapsed, making the room unusable for teaching and learning activities. The ceiling was also damaged. As a result, students have had to take turns using other classrooms, preventing learning activities from taking place optimally.

“The roof was leaking, and eventually the ceiling collapsed because the roof structure had become too weak. Fortunately, there were no students in the classroom when it happened. We hope the damage can be repaired soon so that teaching and learning activities can run more effectively and the students no longer have to share or take turns using classrooms,” said Drs. Jasa Rohdiat, Principal of SDN Wanakerta 1.

The school’s sanitation facilities also face limitations. Two of the available toilets are damaged and cannot be used. As a result, the number of functioning toilets is limited, forcing students to queue when they need to use them.

The condition of educational facilities at schools such as SDN Wanakerta 1 remains a challenge in many parts of Indonesia. Around 30 percent of elementary schools in rural areas still require major renovations, while approximately 20 percent do not yet have adequate sanitation facilities. Inadequate school buildings and facilities can affect students’ comfort and safety during the learning process.

Similar challenges can also be found around the Karawang International Industrial City (KIIC) in Karawang Regency and the Greenland International Industrial Center (GIIC) in Bekasi Regency. Within four villages located within a 5–7-kilometer radius of these two industrial areas, there are 41 schools ranging from early childhood education to senior high school. An estimated 21 schools continue to face various challenges, including overcrowded classrooms, damaged buildings, inadequate sanitation facilities, and limited learning-support infrastructure.

In response to these needs, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia has partnered with Microsoft to improve educational facilities around the KIIC and GIIC areas. This initiative is part of Habitat Indonesia’s education program, which recognizes the close relationship between adequate housing, supportive learning environments, and the quality of life of low-income families.

Habitat Indonesia believes that adequate housing and a quality learning environment are closely interconnected. Children need a safe place to live where they can rest and study, as well as a comfortable school environment where they can learn and develop to their full potential. Therefore, improving educational facilities is part of Habitat’s broader efforts to improve the quality of life of low-income families.

Currently, the Habitat Indonesia team is conducting an in-depth assessment of schools across four target areas: Wanakerta, Wanasari, Sukamahi, and Pasiranji villages. The assessment aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of the condition of each school’s facilities, identify priority needs, and ensure that the planned renovations are tailored to the specific conditions of each school.

Based on the assessment results, 15 schools will be selected to receive renovation support. Each school will develop a proposal based on its priority needs, ensuring that the interventions are not one-size-fits-all but are instead tailored to the specific conditions and requirements of each school.

Renovation support may include various non-structural improvements, such as repairing ceilings, floors, and walls, repainting, improving sanitation facilities, and enhancing access to clean water. The scope of work will be determined based on the assessment findings and proposals submitted by each school.

In addition to improving physical facilities, the program will also promote more inclusive renovation approaches. Schools will be encouraged to adopt facilities and designs that are more responsive to the needs of women and people with disabilities, ensuring that learning environments can be accessed and used safely and comfortably by all students.

Environmental sustainability will also be incorporated into the planning process. The use of durable local materials, natural lighting and ventilation, and efficient use of water and energy will be considered during renovations. Depending on the conditions of each school, climate-resilient approaches, such as improving drainage, strengthening flood protection, and utilizing rainwater, may also be implemented.

The program will not stop at the construction or improvement of facilities. Schools will also be encouraged to develop a sense of ownership of the renovated facilities. Involving school representatives in determining renovation priorities is an important step toward ensuring that the improved facilities are properly maintained and utilized over the long term.

Through its collaboration with Microsoft, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia hopes that support for 15 schools around the KIIC and GIIC areas will create learning spaces that are safer, healthier, more comfortable, and more inclusive. When children have appropriate spaces to learn, they gain more than a better place to pursue their education—they gain an environment that supports them in growing, developing, and preparing for a better future.

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

Nagekeo, August 31, 2026 – Habitat for Humanity Indonesia has begun distributing emergency assistance to families affected by the Flores earthquake, which struck several areas of East Nusa Tenggara on August 15, 2026. The assistance is part of Habitat Indonesia’s initial efforts to support the recovery of homes and living environments affected by the disaster.

With support from donors, Habitat Indonesia is distributing 100 Emergency Shelter Kits (ESKs) to affected families in five villages in Aesesa District, Nagekeo Regency. The assistance is being distributed to families in Aeramo, Marapokot, Nangadhero, Tonggurambang, and Waekokak villages.

The assistance packages have been tailored to the needs of affected families, helping them clear debris and carry out initial repairs to their homes, particularly those that sustained minor to moderate damage. The equipment is expected to help residents begin the process of restoring their homes while prioritizing safety.

As part of the handover, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia symbolically presented the ESK packages to the Nagekeo Regency Government, represented by Nagekeo Deputy Regent Gonzalo Gratianus Muga Sada, at the Nagekeo BPBD Emergency Response Post.

“On behalf of the people of Nagekeo, I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the support provided, particularly the tools and equipment. This assistance is greatly needed by the community to clean up and repair damaged homes, which we hope can then be followed by the rehabilitation and reconstruction of residents’ houses,” said Nagekeo Deputy Regent Gonzalo Gratianus Muga Sada.

Supporting Home Repairs and Debris Removal

The assistance packages were prepared based on the needs identified among families in the field. In addition to providing temporary protection, the equipment included in the Emergency Shelter Kits can be used by residents to clear debris while supporting initial home repairs.

Each family receives one 2 x 25-meter tarpaulin sheet for temporary protection. The package also includes several construction tools, such as a medium-sized hammer, a handsaw, a crowbar, a shovel, a hoe with a handle, and two kilograms of nails measuring 7 cm and 10 cm.

To support residents’ safety while carrying out repair and cleanup work, each package is also equipped with two lengths of rope, six pairs of work gloves, one safety helmet, one pair of safety boots, and one pair of safety goggles.

The provision of these tools is part of Habitat Indonesia’s approach to ensuring that affected families receive not only temporary protection but also initial support to begin clearing and restoring their home environments.

An Initial Step Toward Long-Term Recovery

The distribution of Emergency Shelter Kits marks the first phase of Habitat Indonesia’s recovery efforts in areas affected by the Flores earthquake. Going forward, support will focus on more comprehensive housing and settlement recovery needs based on field assessment findings.

Recovery efforts will include the repair and strengthening of damaged structures, or retrofitting, particularly to improve the safety and resilience of homes against future disaster risks.

Habitat Indonesia will also support families in restoring access to safe water and sanitation, including through education and training on hygiene and sanitation practices under the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) approach.

In addition, the Build Back Safer approach will be an important part of the recovery process. This approach encourages homes that are repaired or rebuilt not simply to be restored to their pre-disaster condition, but to become safer and more resilient to future disaster risks.

Recovery support will also extend to affected public facilities, including schools and community health centers, so that communities can regain safe and adequate access to essential education and healthcare services.

Post-disaster recovery takes time and requires support from many different stakeholders. Therefore, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia continues to invite #SahabatHabitat to take part in supporting families affected by the Flores earthquake.

Community support will help strengthen the recovery process, from providing emergency assistance and supporting home cleanup and repairs to rebuilding safer and more resilient homes for affected families.

Let us stand together with families affected by the Flores earthquake as they rebuild their homes and lives. Donations can be made via bank transfer or QRIS through the campaign flyer below.

Writer: Kevin Herbian

Graphic: Tias Ester Widhari

(kh/av)

Bogor, August 29, 2026 – Habitat for Humanity Indonesia once again held CEO Build 2026, a volunteer and fundraising initiative that brings together business leaders, CEOs, and top executives to support access to decent housing for low-income families. Once again led by Edwin Soeryadjaya, this year’s event brought together more than 80 participants and took place in Wanaherang Village, Gunung Putri District, Bogor Regency, on Saturday, August 29, 2026.

Through CEO Build 2026, participants not only contributed through fundraising efforts but also took part directly in the construction of seven decent homes for low-income families. The activity is part of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia’s ongoing commitment to addressing Indonesia’s housing backlog while encouraging greater private-sector involvement in providing decent homes for families in need.

Through their direct experience in the field, business leaders were invited to better understand the challenges of housing poverty while taking an active role in creating more inclusive and sustainable communities. This effort aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11, which promotes inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and communities.

Since it was first launched in 2015, CEO Build has contributed to the construction of 122 decent homes across Indonesia. These contributions include four homes in Bogor Regency in 2015, 11 homes in Gresik Regency in 2019, 29 homes in Banyuwangi Regency in 2022, 38 homes in Bogor Regency in 2025, and 40 homes through CEO Build 2026 in Wanaherang Village, Bogor Regency. This achievement demonstrates how collaboration among business leaders, the private sector, and Habitat Indonesia can continue to grow, expanding its impact and helping more families gain access to decent housing.

“Volunteerism always brings tremendous value, both to me personally and to the communities around me. I am very grateful that through this initiative, which has been carried out over many years, more and more fellow business leaders have joined efforts to contribute to building a better Indonesia. I hope this spirit of giving will continue to inspire others, so that more families can have decent homes,” said Edwin Soeryadjaya.

In addition to supporting the construction of 40 homes in Wanaherang, Bogor, Habitat Indonesia also used this initiative to raise funds to support the recovery of families affected by the Flores earthquake. This initiative reflects a shared commitment to providing safe and decent homes for communities affected by disasters. The funds raised will support a program to repair 200 homes that sustained light to moderate damage in Flores, while further expanding the impact of the volunteer movement initiated together with business leaders and Habitat Indonesia’s partners.

Read also: CEO Build 2025: Collaboration of 58 CEOs Builds Decent Homes for Low-Income Families in Bogor 

Handoko Ngadiman, National Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, emphasized that addressing housing challenges requires collaboration among various stakeholders, including the private sector.

“In line with SDG 11, we continue to encourage the involvement of the private sector and various stakeholders to work together to expand access to decent housing and sustainable communities. We hope this spirit of collaboration will continue to grow and inspire more people to contribute to addressing Indonesia’s housing challenges,” said Handoko Ngadiman.

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia extends its appreciation to all participants, donors, partners, and other stakeholders who supported the implementation of CEO Build 2026. The event was also made possible with the support of PT Astra Internasional Tbk., PT Mortar Abadi, MPM, Tower Bersama Group, PT Adakom International Technology, Merdeka Copper Gold, Adaro Andalan, Sikular Karya Indonesia, and other sponsors.

It is hoped that this collaboration will continue to grow into various forms of support and partnership, helping more families gain access to decent homes. More than simply building houses, CEO Build is a reminder that leadership has the power to create meaningful change.

Photo: HFHI/Astridinar Vania, Budi Ariyanto, Syefira Salsabilla

Writer: Syefira Salsabilla

(ss/kh)

East Nusa Tenggara, August 28, 2026 – The morning of August 15, 2026, was supposed to be an ordinary day for Abdul Rajak and his family. But within minutes, an earthquake shook Flores and changed the way they viewed the home that had always been their shelter. Although their house was still standing, the sense of security inside it had yet to fully return.

Abdul, a resident of Sambi Rampas Subdistrict, East Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, still remembers that morning clearly. At around 6:00 a.m., after briefly going back to sleep following the dawn prayer, he felt the shaking grow stronger. From Congkar Subdistrict, where he was staying at the time, he immediately tried to make sure that his wife and children, who were at home, were safe.

Not long afterward, the news he had been waiting for arrived. His wife, niece, and two daughters had managed to evacuate and were staying at an evacuation site with other residents. His children had cried and were frightened, but they managed to get out of the house safely.

For Abdul, the safety of his family was the first thing he was grateful for. But when he returned to see the condition of his house and the surrounding area, he realized that the earthquake had caused considerable damage.

His storage building was completely destroyed. The kiosk at the front of the house had cracks in its upper section, while several other parts were also damaged. The fence of a nearby prayer room had also collapsed. Fortunately, the main house and several other facilities remained usable.

After the earthquake, Abdul and his family chose to spend the nights in a tent set up outside their house. With aftershocks still occurring, they were not yet confident enough to sleep inside the building. Support from neighbors in the form of blankets, clothing, mattresses, and other necessities also helped the family get through the first few nights after the disaster.

For Abdul’s family, however, the biggest challenge was not simply finding a place to sleep. The fear also remained, especially for his youngest child. Although their house had not suffered severe damage, his youngest child was still traumatized and was not yet ready to sleep inside the house. Every morning, the family returned home to clean, prepare food, and carry out their daily activities. When night came, they returned to a place they considered safer.

The days after the earthquake began to unfold differently. Daily activities gradually resumed, but there was always a sense of alertness in case another tremor occurred.

Amid this situation, Abdul did not want his family to remain trapped in fear. He decided to take a simple step that he could manage on his own. Using available wood, he began building a small gazebo beside the house to serve as a temporary resting place for his family.

For Abdul, building this simple shelter was not merely about providing a place to sleep. It was also about nurturing hope within his family amid the difficult circumstances. “We cannot remain consumed by this disaster. As long as there is something we can do, we have to keep trying. I need to show my children and family that we can get through this, so they can also feel stronger and more at ease.”

That determination became Abdul’s way of facing a situation he had never imagined before. He realized that an earthquake was beyond his control, but how he responded afterward was still a choice.

In his view, a family needs someone who can remain strong when circumstances are uncertain. Not because the fear simply disappears, but because life must go on. “We have to accept that this is a disaster that happened beyond our control. But we also have to get back up and keep trying. Whatever we can still do, we should do it. I want my children and family to see that we still have hope.”

That hope became even more important because, for Abdul, home was never merely a building. Before the earthquake, it was where his family gathered, rested, talked, and lived their daily lives. After the earthquake, that meaning felt even deeper.

Home became the place they longed to return to, while at the same time, it was a place they temporarily had to stay away from because of fear. “For me, home is where the family gathers and protects one another. It is where we communicate, rest, and find shelter from the heat, rain, and unexpected circumstances,” he said.

That is why, for Abdul, having a safe home is about more than having a roof and walls. A home is an essential part of a family’s sense of security. When that place of shelter is disrupted, the family’s life is disrupted as well.

Today, although his house is still standing, Abdul has chosen not to simply wait for things to return to normal on their own. He cleans the house, builds a temporary shelter, and resumes daily activities as much as he can. Little by little, he is working to restore the sense of normalcy that was lost.

However, recovery after a disaster does not end when the earthquake subsides. For many families in Flores, regaining access to a safe and decent home remains an important part of their journey toward recovery.

Let us come together to help families affected by the Flores earthquake regain safe and decent homes. Your support can be part of their journey to rise again and rebuild their lives after the disaster. Donations can be made through:

Writer: Kevin Herbian

Graphic: Tias Ester Widhari

(kh/av)

East Nusa Tenggara, August 22, 2026 – That morning, Yofita Damul (37) was preparing breakfast for her children. The rice was already cooked, the vegetables were being reheated, and soon her family would begin their usual daily activities. But the peaceful morning changed in an instant when the ground began to shake. 

“My children immediately screamed, ‘Mom, what’s happening?’ I panicked too. I immediately told them, ‘Let’s get outside, let’s get outside, kids!’” Yofita recalled. 

The magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores on August 15, 2026, left Yofita’s home in West Kuwus Subdistrict, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, no longer safe to live in as it had been before. When the earthquake struck, her thoughts were focused solely on the safety of her children and her mother, who was ill and had difficulty standing. 

Amid the panic, Yofita and her family tried to get out of the house. Her mother was then evacuated to a safer place. The house that had sheltered her family for years could only be watched from outside as it shook violently. 

“At that moment, we immediately carried Mom outside. We weren’t thinking about anything else anymore. The most important thing was that everyone could get out safely. After that, we could only watch the house shake right before our eyes,” she said. 

Amid the fear, there was one thing Yofita remained grateful for. None of her family members were injured or killed in the disaster. “Everything was chaotic. But I am grateful to God that we are all safe. No one was hurt. The house was damaged, and whether we like it or not, we have to accept that reality. What matters is that our family is safe,” Yofita said. 

However, surviving the earthquake did not mean that their ordeal was over. Once their home was no longer safe to live in, Yofita and her family had to find a temporary place to shelter. 

A tent has now been set up in the yard of their neighbor’s house. In the limited space, three families have to share the same tent to rest and carry out their daily activities. Yofita’s family consists of nine people, including her children, her sick mother, and a child who has been entrusted to her care because the child’s parents are currently in Kalimantan. 

“We are now staying in a tent in front of our neighbor’s house. We have been there for several days since the earthquake. Three families are staying in this one tent. My own family has nine members,” Yofita said. 

For a relatively large family, living in a tent is not easy, especially for an extended period of time. Yofita also has to make sure that her children’s needs are met while continuing to care for her sick mother. 

That is why, when asked what her family needs most at the moment, Yofita did not hesitate to answer. “The most important thing is a place to live. We cannot stay in a tent for too long, especially because we have children. We also need basic daily necessities,” she said. 

The hope of having a safe home is not new to Yofita. Before the earthquake damaged her home, the house was the result of years of hard work and struggle by her family. 

In 2019, Yofita moved to Kalimantan for almost five years to work and earn money. With the income she saved from her hard work, construction of the house began in March 2019. After some time, she and her family returned to their hometown in January 2021 and lived in the house until the earthquake struck. 

The house was more than just a building to Yofita. It represented her family’s long journey toward having a home of their own. However, the earthquake left the home they had built through years of hard work unable to provide the same sense of safety as before. 

Now, Yofita once again finds herself in a situation where housing has become an urgent need. For her, recovery is not only about repairing a damaged building, but also about restoring a safe space where her family can live together. 

Yofita’s experience shows how disasters can have impacts that extend far beyond physical damage. When a home is affected, daily activities, childcare, family health, and a sense of security can all be disrupted. 

Amid these circumstances, support for housing recovery is essential to help affected families regain access to safe and adequate homes. Habitat for Humanity is responding to the housing needs of families affected by the Flores earthquake through efforts to support the recovery of homes and communities. 

For Yofita, her hope is simple: that her family can soon have a place to return to—not just a temporary tent, but a home that can provide a sense of safety for her children and family. “My hope now is that we can soon have a decent place to live. We want to live peacefully with our family again. That is what we need most,” she said. 

Yofita’s journey after the earthquake is far from over. The home she built through years of hard work now needs to be rebuilt and restored. Yet, amid loss and uncertainty, she chooses to remain grateful for the one thing that matters most: her family is safe. 

For families like Yofita’s, supporting housing recovery means more than simply rebuilding a structure. It is about restoring a sense of safety, keeping families together, and helping them gradually rebuild their lives after a disaster. 

Let us come together to help thousands of families like Yofita’s regain access to safe and adequate homes. Donations can be made through:

Writer: Kevin Herbian

Graphic: Tias Ester Widhari

(kh/av)

East Nusa Tenggara, August 19, 2026 – A magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara on August 15, 2026, has brought deep sorrow to thousands of families, particularly in several areas of Flores Island. The earthquake damaged homes and various public facilities, while forcing tens of thousands of people to leave their homes in search of safer places.

According to data from the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) as of 7:00 a.m. WITA on August 19, 2026, 70 people had died, while another 1,184 people were reported injured or ill. A total of 40,216 people were still displaced across 11 affected regencies and cities. East Manggarai Regency was among the areas with the highest number of displaced people, with 15,465 displaced residents.

The impact of the earthquake was also evident in the damage to people’s homes. At least 11,950 families were recorded as having damaged homes, comprising 5,518 heavily damaged homes, 1,924 moderately damaged homes, and 4,508 lightly damaged homes. The damage was not limited to residential buildings but also affected facilities that support people’s daily lives.

BNPB recorded at least 208 damaged educational facilities, followed by 75 healthcare facilities, 39 offices, and 53 places of worship. These figures may continue to change as the government and various organizations carry out further data collection and verification in the field.

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia’s Response

In response to the extensive impact on housing, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia deployed a Roster Deployment team to the affected areas. The team conducted a rapid assessment to understand the extent of housing damage and the living conditions of affected families, while also identifying their most urgent shelter needs.

The rapid assessment serves as an initial step in determining Habitat Indonesia’s interventions to support housing recovery on Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara. In addition to assessing the extent of damage, the assessment is necessary to ensure that the response provided is aligned with the needs of affected families and the conditions of the affected areas.

Through the Flores Housing Recovery program, Habitat for Humanity will prioritize support for the housing needs of affected communities. In the initial stage, the response will focus on distributing Emergency Shelter Kits to help families meet their immediate shelter needs following the disaster.

For long-term recovery, Habitat is also preparing interventions for house repairs and seismic retrofitting, which involves strengthening building structures to make homes safer and more resilient to future earthquake risks. The type and scope of these interventions will be determined based on the findings of the field assessments.

This response is part of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia’s efforts to help affected families not only receive protection in the aftermath of the disaster, but also have the opportunity to return to homes that are safer and more resilient.

Habitat Indonesia invites Sahabat Habitat to support families affected by the Flores earthquake. Your support can help meet their immediate housing needs while contributing to the long-term recovery of their homes.

Let us stand together with families affected by the earthquake in Flores. Donations can be made through:

Writer: Kevin Herbian

Graphic: Tias Ester Widhari

(kh/av)

Cilegon, August 6, 2026 – A total of 50 volunteers from POSCO 1% Foundation participated in the “1% Global Village Volunteer” program held from August 3–6, 2026, at SDN Belumbang, Cilegon, Banten. The activity reflects the commitment of POSCO 1% Foundation and Habitat for Humanity Indonesia to supporting a better, safer, and more comfortable learning environment for children in Indonesia.

Over three days, from August 3–5, the volunteers were directly involved in constructing the walls of one new classroom and repainting six existing classrooms, both inside and outside the buildings. The activities were part of POSCO 1% Foundation’s support for the construction of one new classroom, the renovation of six existing classrooms, and the construction of three new toilets at SDN Belumbang.

SDN Belumbang is the elementary school with the largest student population in Cilegon, with 460 students. However, the school previously had only six classrooms, which had to be used in shifts by all students, affecting the effectiveness and comfort of the learning process. In addition, the condition of the school buildings was concerning, with peeling walls and several classrooms experiencing structural damage and significant cracks.

“With the current condition of the classrooms, the facilities are certainly far from adequate. With 460 students, they have to be divided into morning and afternoon sessions, which significantly affects their comfort during the learning process,” said Uung Rosdiana, S.Pd., Principal of SDN Belumbang.

Through the construction and renovation support, SDN Belumbang is expected to provide more adequate learning spaces, allowing students to participate in learning activities in a more comfortable, healthy, and enthusiastic environment.

In addition to contributing to the physical improvement of the school, the volunteers also held a Korean cultural education session on August 6, attended by approximately 60 students of SDN Belumbang. Various interactive activities were organized to strengthen friendship between Indonesia and South Korea, including decorating eco-bags, creating name tags using Korean Hangeul characters, coloring traditional Korean masks, and making Polaroid photo frames. The activities were filled with enthusiasm and joy, while also providing the students with a cross-cultural learning experience.

Read also: Building Indonesia: POSCO and Habitat for Humanity Collaborate to Provide Decent Homes in Cilegon

The series of activities concluded with a Dedication Ceremony, attended by Deputy Mayor of Cilegon Fajar Hadi Prabowo, President Director of PT Krakatau POSCO Kim Young-joong, and National Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia Handoko Ngadiman. The ceremony symbolized the handover of the collaborative project’s achievements and served as an appreciation for all volunteers and partners who contributed to creating a better learning environment for the children of SDN Belumbang.

“We are very grateful to POSCO 1% Foundation and PT Krakatau POSCO for their continued contributions and commitment to the people of Cilegon through the construction of decent homes and the renovation of SDN Belumbang. We hope POSCO’s efforts can serve as an example and inspiration for other industries in Cilegon to contribute and work together to improve the well-being of the community,” said Fajar Hadi Prabowo, Deputy Mayor of Cilegon.

Handoko Ngadiman, National Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, highlighted the connection between decent housing and a supportive educational environment for children’s growth and development.

“At Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, we believe that decent homes and safe learning environments are essential foundations for future generations. This project reflects our shared commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 11 on sustainable cities and communities and SDG 4 on quality education, through the construction of a new classroom, the provision of improved sanitation facilities, and the enhancement of the school environment at SDN Belumbang,” he said.

The collaboration between POSCO 1% Foundation and Habitat for Humanity Indonesia demonstrates how partnerships among the private sector, communities, and social organizations can help advance the well-being of children in Banten Province, particularly in Cilegon. Through improved educational facilities and cultural exchange activities, this collaboration is expected to support children’s growth and development while strengthening the bonds of friendship between Indonesia and South Korea.

Photo & Writer: Syefira Salsabilla

(ss/kh)

Gresik, August 1, 2026 – Habitat for Humanity Indonesia received an award from Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY), Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development of the Republic of Indonesia, in recognition of its contribution to supporting integrated slum upgrading in Campurejo Village, Panceng District, Gresik Regency, East Java. The award was presented during the inauguration of the 2025 Thematic Special Allocation Fund (DAK) for Integrated Slum Upgrading (TPKT) on Saturday, August 1, 2026.

The recognition acknowledges the collaboration between Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and Pakuwon Group in supporting the transformation of the area through the construction of 21 decent homes, the delivery of healthy housing and basic construction training for 99 community members, and the construction of the relocation area’s entrance gate as part of efforts to create a safer, healthier, and better-organized community.

Habitat Indonesia’s contribution forms part of the government’s integrated settlement upgrading program, which addresses slum areas through cross-sector collaboration. In Campurejo Village, the initiative covers a 7.11-hectare coastal settlement that is home to approximately 1,152 residents. In addition to housing construction, the area has been equipped with essential infrastructure, including neighborhood roads, drainage systems, clean water distribution networks, a wastewater treatment facility (WWTP), a water reservoir, and a Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (3R) waste management facility.

In his remarks, Minister AHY emphasized that settlement upgrading cannot be carried out in isolation but requires strong collaboration among the government, the private sector, and development partners to deliver sustainable improvements for communities.

“Settlement upgrading must create communities that are more developed, more prosperous, and greener. It all begins with homes and families as the foundation of society,” said AHY.

The Campurejo initiative also serves as an example of a hybrid financing approach, combining government funding through the Thematic Special Allocation Fund for Integrated Slum Upgrading (DAK TPKT) with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) support from the private sector. Of the 166 housing units included in the program, 145 homes were funded through DAK TPKT, while the remaining 21 homes were built through the partnership between Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and Pakuwon Group. This collaboration demonstrates how cross-sector partnerships can accelerate the provision of adequate housing while supporting comprehensive neighborhood upgrading.

Read also: Habitat for Humanity Indonesia Receives Award from the Ministry of Public Works and Housing

During his visit to the site, AHY also confirmed that several essential facilities, including the clean water distribution system, are now fully operational and benefiting local residents. According to him, the transformation in Campurejo Village is reflected not only in the newly built homes but also in the improved neighborhood environment and supporting infrastructure.

“The transformation is clearly visible. It’s not just about the houses that have been built, but also about the improved environment and supporting facilities that have made this community a much more comfortable place to live,” AHY said.

The improvements have also been felt by Imam Ansori, a fisherman and one of the homeowner beneficiaries. After spending years living in a house with a leaking roof, he and his family can now enjoy a safer and more comfortable home. “Whenever it rained, we were always worried because water would leak through the roof. Now we can live with peace of mind. This home has truly changed our family’s life,” said Imam Ansori.

The award from the Coordinating Ministry for Infrastructure and Regional Development of the Republic of Indonesia recognizes Habitat for Humanity Indonesia’s contribution to integrated settlement upgrading. Through collaboration with the government and private sector partners, Habitat Indonesia remains committed to expanding access to adequate housing, promoting healthier communities, and improving the quality of life for families in need.

(kh/av)

Yogyakarta, July 30, 2026 – For most people, home is a place to rest, spend time with family, and feel safe and comfortable. However, for many people with disabilities in Indonesia, home still presents significant challenges in carrying out daily activities. Stairs without ramps, narrow bathrooms, uneven floors, and inaccessible layouts mean that many homes are not yet safe, comfortable, or accessible for everyone.

These challenges remain an important issue that deserves greater attention. Data show that approximately 9.9 million families in Indonesia still face a housing backlog, while 26.9 million families live in homes that do not meet minimum standards for adequate housing. The situation becomes even more complex for families with members living with disabilities. Indonesia is estimated to have around 23 million people with disabilities, yet only a small proportion of homes are equipped with basic accessibility features such as ramps, handrails, and disability-friendly sanitation facilities.

Beyond inadequate infrastructure, other factors—including financial constraints, limited awareness of the importance of inclusive housing, and persistent stigma toward people with disabilities—continue to hinder the development of homes that are both adequate and accessible. As a result, simple daily activities such as going to the bathroom, leaving the house, or moving from one room to another often still depend on assistance from family members.

The Partnership Between Asuransi MAG and Habitat Indonesia

In response to these challenges, PT Asuransi Multi Artha Guna Tbk (Asuransi MAG) and Habitat for Humanity Indonesia partnered to build 10 inclusive, decent homes for families with members living with disabilities in Sentolo District, Kulon Progo Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta.

Each home was designed with the residents’ needs, safety, and comfort in mind. Accessibility features—including safer bathrooms, handrails, accessible pathways, and layouts that support mobility—were incorporated to create more inclusive living spaces. Through these improvements, the homes are intended not only to provide physical shelter but also to promote safety, greater independence, and a more dignified quality of life for people with disabilities.

In addition to housing construction, the program also provided inclusive housing training for 20 participants, including people with disabilities, family members, and local stakeholders. The training aimed to increase awareness that decent housing is not only about structural strength and safety, but also about ensuring accessibility, security, and equal opportunities for every resident.

One of the beneficiary families is Legimin (65) from Bulak Hamlet, Tuksono Village. For many years, Legimin and his family lived under difficult financial circumstances. Today, his mobility has become increasingly limited due to illness. Despite these challenges, his second child, who has a psychosocial disability, continues to strive for independence. He is able to communicate well and works as a day laborer to help support the family’s daily needs.

Before receiving assistance, their home was far from adequate. The walls were made of concrete blocks without proper structural reinforcement, parts of the floor were still dirt and unfinished cement, the roof was deteriorating, and the bathroom did not meet basic standards. These conditions not only affected the family’s comfort but also significantly limited the mobility and independence of both Legimin and his son.

“Having two family members with disabilities while facing financial hardship, owning a decent home has always been our dream. Now this house makes our daily activities much easier because it was designed to suit our needs, allowing us to live more independently,” said Legimin.

A similar transformation has been experienced by Rahmad (27) and his family in Demangan Hamlet. Since birth, Rahmad has lived with a mobility impairment, making him dependent on his parents and siblings for daily activities, including bathing and using the toilet. Before receiving assistance, he slept on the floor of a back room next to the kitchen and bathroom. Whenever he needed to bathe, family members had to carry him because the bathroom doorway was too narrow for a wheelchair to pass through.

Today, that situation has changed. The new home, designed with accessibility in mind, provides Rahmad with a safer and more comfortable living environment. With disability-friendly features, he has become more independent in his daily activities, including being able to access the bathroom without always relying on assistance from family members.

“We used to face so many challenges. Thank God, our new home was designed to meet our son’s accessibility needs. Daily life has become much easier, and now he can even go to the bathroom by himself,” said Rahmad’s parents.

The positive changes experienced by these families demonstrate that a decent home is measured not only by the strength of its structure, but also by its ability to provide a safe, comfortable, and accessible living environment for everyone. When physical barriers within the home are removed, people with disabilities have greater opportunities to live independently, carry out daily activities safely, and participate more actively in family and community life.

Through the collaboration between Asuransi MAG and Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, this inclusive housing initiative aims not only to provide better homes for 10 beneficiary families, but also to encourage greater public awareness that every home should be designed to meet the needs of all its residents. Ultimately, a truly decent home is more than just a place to live—it is a space that provides safety, equal opportunity, and dignity for everyone who calls it home.

(kh/av)