At the end of 2024, Neneng (35), a mother from Bogor Regency, West Java, received the best gift she never imagined. Right in the midst of her struggle through life’s hardships, a real hope appeared—a decent home that is livable, provided by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. 

However, the surprise didn’t stop there. A day after the house was completed, her third daughter was born. These two consecutive blessings became the answers to the prayers that Neneng had been offering all this time. “I never imagined all of this happening. Allah has been so good to me and my family,” Neneng said while reminiscing about that beautiful moment. 

Previously, Neneng’s life was filled with anxiety and struggle. The house inherited from her parents, where she lived with her husband and two daughters, was in a deplorable condition. The roof leaked, the walls were fragile, and the floor had holes. “When I was heavily pregnant, I was so scared. The house leaked when it rained, and there was even a snake that entered. I could only surrender, hoping everything would be okay,” Neneng recalled. 

Komarudin (40), Neneng’s husband, was also in a dilemma. As an odd-job farm laborer, his income was far from enough to meet the family’s needs. Neneng had to help by collecting plastic and scrap materials around their house. However, the extra income only left her with loose change. “The most I could earn was Rp 20,000 a day. That was not enough to buy rice and other things for the kids,” said Neneng. 

This situation made Neneng constantly worry about her children’s future. “I was so worried, wondering if this dilapidated house could provide a good future. Especially for the little one who was about to be born,” Neneng shared, recalling the anxiety that filled her days. 

Read also: A New Ray of Hope in Siti Nurhayati’s Blue Home

But everything changed when Habitat for Humanity Indonesia came. With its commitment to helping families in need, Habitat rebuilt Neneng’s house into a decent home—a new foundation for a better life. 

Now, Neneng is no longer haunted by worry. Her new house stands strong, offering comfort and a sense of security for her family. “I am so grateful for Allah’s blessing. My worries have disappeared. There’s no more story of a leaking house, and the kids can sleep soundly without fearing any animals getting in,” Neneng said with deep gratitude. 

A new spirit at the beginning of 2025 fills Neneng and her family’s life. This new home has become a symbol of hope, a place where small dreams can begin to grow. Habitat believes that a home is the foundation of a better life. From here, health, education, and a bright future begin. 

For Neneng, this house is not just a place to live. It is a promise to her children, especially the little one who was just born, that they will grow up in a decent and loving environment. “No matter what, this house is everything. It is the place where we rely on for a better life,” Neneng concluded with a smile, carrying hope for the future. 

Let’s together make decent housing a reality for millions of families in Indonesia who are still struggling to find a safe and comfortable place to live. Every small step from #SahabatHabitat is a great hope for them, giving them the opportunity to live a better and dignified life. Donate now and be part of the change: www.habitatindonesia.org/donate 

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The ongoing collaboration between Habitat for Humanity and POSCO directly supports 214 low-income families through the construction and renovation of homes, as well as empowering 333 individuals through healthy household management training.

Cilegon, January 16, 2025 – POSCO with Habitat for Humanity, Community Chest of Korea and KRAKATAU POSCO have successfully completed the collaborative project titled “Beyond Borders: Building a Better Future Together,” held from January 12-16, 2025. In this project, 49 Korean students, 10 Indonesian students, and 60 volunteers from KRAKATAU POSCO employees who participated in a series of activities ranging from building homes for underprivileged families in Cilegon, conducting various training programs, to undertaking environmental conservation efforts. 

This initiative focused on providing safe and decent housing while improving educational facilities, including construct five decent homes and renovate school facilities in Ciwandan and Citangkil, Cilegon City. The new homes were designed with eco-friendly features, utilizing eco-bricks recycle from plastic waste, rainwater harvesting systems, and bio-septic tanks. This approach not only supports environmental sustainability but also offers practical solutions to sanitation and clean water challenges in the area. Additionally, renovations at MTs Al Hidayah have directly benefited 96 students and teachers by creating a more conducive learning environment, with improved classroom and teachers’ rooms as well as healthy/sanitary toilets. 

The project went beyond physical construction to focus on community empowerment. Alongside building safe and decent homes and improving educational facilities, it included training on healthy home management and raising disaster mitigation awareness. These initiatives aim to foster stronger and more resilient communities, particularly in disaster-prone areas. 

As part of its commitment to environmental preservation, the collaboration also included beach cleanup activities and the installation of artificial coral reefs from steel slag substrates provided by KRAKATAU POSCO near Carita Beach, in partnership with Konservasi Alam Bawah Laut Sukarame. This initiative underscores a shared commitment to protecting the ocean through promoting growth of marine ecosystem and absorbing carbon dioxide, while building a better future for future generations. 

The project culminated in a Cultural Performance event held on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at the Kominfo Hall in Cilegon. The event was graced by distinguished guests, including the Mayor of Cilegon, H. Helldy Agustian, S.E., S.H., M.H., local government officials, the board of directors from PT Krakatau POSCO, and members of the Cilegon community, especially those from Ciwandan and Citangkil. During the event, 49 global youth volunteers from the Beyond project showcased dynamic traditional and contemporary Korean culture, while youth from Cilegon, under the guidance of Duta Seni KS, performed exquisite traditional Indonesian cultural presentations. The highlight of the event was a collaborative cultural performance featuring Indonesian culture by Beyond volunteers and Duta Seni KS, leaving a lasting impression on all attendees. 

Read also: Sowing Second Hopes with IES Jakarta Through Decent Home 

On this occasion, President Director of PT Krakatau POSCO, Mr. Jung Bum-Su, expressed his pride in the collaboration. “It is a great honor to work with Habitat for Humanity to support the people of Cilegon, especially those in close proximity to our operations as POSCO’s representative company in Indonesia. We hope that this project not only builds homes but also inspires new hope and a brighter future for families in need. Beyond Borders serves as a bridge between cultures and a driver of local community empowerment.” 

Abraham Tulung, General Manager of Resource Development at Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, highlighted the positive impact of the long-standing partnership with POSCO. “The enduring relationship between Habitat and POSCO has enabled many families to achieve decent living conditions. We look forward to expanding this collaboration to create even greater benefits in the future,” he remarked. 

Helldy Agustian, Mayor of Cilegon City also expressed his appreciation and support for the initiative. “We deeply appreciate the tangible contributions from POSCO, PT Krakatau POSCO, and Habitat for Humanity in supporting the construction of decent housing and the renovation of schools for the people of Cilegon. Programs like this not only provide direct benefits to the community but also reflect the spirit of collaboration and social care that holds great significance for our city. We hope such synergies continue to thrive and deliver broader impacts in the future,” he stated. 

The event concluded with a heartfelt and joyous symbolic handover of house keys to the beneficiaries. Stakeholders agreed that this project marks the beginning of many more collaborations aimed at improving the well-being of the people of Cilegon. 

POSCO Beyond is a tangible manifestation of care for the community and the environment. Through close collaboration, this initiative proves that we can transcend geographical, cultural, and social boundaries to foster closer relationships and create a better world. 

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Tangerang, November 30, 2024 – IES Jakarta has once again demonstrated its strong commitment to supporting the vision of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia: ensuring that every family has a decent, safe, and comfortable place to live. 

After successfully helping 20 low-income families secure decent housing during the 2023–2024 period, IES Jakarta has now begun the construction of 20 new homes in Marga Mulya Village, Mauk District, Tangerang—a village filled with hope for a better future. 

This significant initiative was marked by the extraordinary enthusiasm of 60 IES Jakarta volunteers. Through a volunteering activity titled “Building Hearts,” held on November 30, 2024, the volunteers worked hand in hand to lay the foundations for the new homes. Under the scorching sun, their laughter and hard work became a tangible symbol of care and compassion for others. 

The beneficiary families of this program are those who struggle daily with limited economic conditions. Most work as fishermen, day laborers, or small-scale farmers. The homes they currently live in are often inherited from their parents—old, deteriorating structures worn out by time. Cracked and damaged walls, leaky roofs, and cramped spaces have become part of their everyday lives. However, hope has arrived, bringing the promise of a better future. 

Read also: Carrying On the Legacy of Kindness: Raden Hapsoro’s Journey

Rachel Feather, one of the volunteers participating in the activity, shared her thoughts. “I believe what we’re doing here is not just about building houses but also creating a safe space for children to grow and thrive. A home is where dreams begin, and I’m proud to be part of their big dreams,” she said. 

This spirit was also echoed by Joko, the head of Marga Mulya Village, who expressed his gratitude. “I deeply appreciate and thank IES Jakarta for supporting our residents for the second time. This assistance is not just about building houses but also about building a future for our generation,” he said. 

Through this program, IES Jakarta and Habitat for Humanity Indonesia are not only providing sturdy walls or strong roofs. They are bringing hope, dignity, and security to the families of Marga Mulya Village. With this support, these families now have a foundation that goes beyond materials—a foundation for a better future. 

The construction of 20 homes is expected to be completed within the next year. However, this journey requires prayers and support from everyone, including you, #SahabatHabitat. May this initiative inspire more people to join in building a world where every family has the right to a decent home. 

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Jakarta, November 2, 2024 – Habitat for Humanity Indonesia is delighted to announce that two incredible Hole-in-One shots at the BNI Indonesian Masters 2024 have resulted in the donation of three homes for Indonesian families in need. 

Renowned golfer Bubba Watson made a splash at the tournament with a perfect shot on the 154-yard par-3 11th hole using a pitching wedge. Inspired by this phenomenal achievement, Watson generously donated an additional house to an Indonesian family through Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, bringing the total to two homes. 

Shortly after Bubba’s historic shot, Phachara Khongwatmai also made waves by acing the 11th hole with a 48-degree wedge. This second Hole-in-One further amplified the charitable impact, resulting in another house being donated to an Indonesian family in need. 

Earlier, the golfers participating in the BNI Indonesian Masters 2024 also took part in The Keepie Uppie Challenge. In this challenge, 16 golfers successfully juggled a ball, raising a total donation of IDR 80,000,000 (IDR 5 million for each pass). 

Read also: Carrying On the Legacy of Kindness: Raden Hapsoro’s Journey

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, which served as the charity partner for this prestigious event, played an active role in raising funds to support the construction of decent homes for low-income families. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia expresses its gratitude for the incredible opportunity to be part of this tournament. 

“Habitat for Humanity Indonesia extends our deepest thanks to Bubba Watson and Phachara Khongwatmai for their remarkable Hole-in-One achievement at the BNI Indonesian Masters 2024. This achievement is more than just a historic milestone in the world of golf; it is a powerful blessing that will have a direct impact on the lives of low-income families in Indonesia. We also express our heartfelt thanks to the BNI Indonesian Masters 2024 for their unwavering support. This partnership will help us build a brighter future for the families we serve,” said Abraham Tulung, General Manager of Resource Development, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. 

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia’s participation in the BNI Indonesian Masters 2024 highlights how sports can be a platform for meaningful social change. With the support of the golfers, sponsors, and other partners, this initiative not only created historic moments on the golf course but also brought renewed hope to families in need. We hope this inspiring effort continues and brings more benefits to those who need it most. 

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I am Arwin Soelaksono from Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. I was on the ground during the early recovery phase and housing recovery program in Aceh following the tsunami. We built over 8,000 houses and were acknowledged as one of the most resilient non-governmental organizations working on the West Coast of Aceh, as well as other organizations like Samaritan’s Purse and the British Red Cross. Through the years and experiences, we took profound lessons, learned what we had done during the recovery, and gained the wisdom to help disaster-affected people rebuild their houses more effectively and sustainably. 

A story from Aceh after the Asian Tsunami 20 years ago 

By mid-2005, more than 5,000 international humanitarian workers had arrived in Aceh. During the heyday of the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Aceh, there were 124 International NGOs, dozens of United Nations organizations, and 430 local NGOs. During 2005-2006, cities like Banda Aceh, Meulaboh, and other West Coast parts were crowded with Non-Government Organizations or NGOs. Funded with a substantial amount of money, that is, 7.7 billion USD, the workers came and hit the ground running. 

This large amount of money was poured into the recovery operations, and the crowding of humanitarian workers quickly met the reality. The affected area experienced prolonged three decades of armed conflict and, therefore, had insufficient market capacities. The construction materials were far below the needs, especially for recovery agencies who work in housing. The imbalance of supply and demand then created severe inflation and competition amongst the recovery agencies. 

The competition did not stop; more problems occurred when the NGOs conflicted over who would get beneficiaries. It was a sad reality that recovery agencies had to compete so that the beneficiaries might choose which one could build their houses. At that time, it was common for NGOs to entice the beneficiaries to accept their housing donations and scrap the others. For instance, several NGOs offered to build larger or even two-story houses, not only houses but also donated furniture and TV sets. NGOs like Habitat for Humanity Indonesia were under challenging circumstances because our houses were 36 meters square, and no furniture was given to the beneficiaries. We believe there is sharing responsibility as houses are given freely; the homeowners should provide household goods according to their preferences. 

One evening in March 2006, a group of villagers came to our office in Rigaih, on the West Coast of Aceh. They asked us to build 45 square meters instead of 36-meter square houses as we promised them. The discussion was tense. We had to agree; otherwise, they would send us out and let other NGOs who can build 45-meter square houses work. So, NGO competition brings a bad attitude to the beneficiaries. It made them spoiled. At the end of the day, it can dictate the NGO that helped them to fulfill their unreasonable needs. That evening, I signed a letter saying we would leave the area and let other NGOs work since we refused to meet their demand.  

In the morning, as we prepared to leave the village and say goodbye to the community, we were surprised that the women were angry at their husbands. These ladies asked us to stay and build their houses. They told their husbands, “Let Habitat build our houses; then, we can ask other NGOs to build additional houses.” Even though I didn’t like what they were thinking, indeed, it was clever. This occasion brings us to a new understanding: women have a significant role in housing recovery post-disaster. 

Experience in Nepal in 2015 

Following the 2015 earthquake in Nepal, I was deployed by the American Red Cross to support housing recovery. One day during the recovery program, I was in Kaule village, one of the areas in Nepal hardest affected by the earthquake. I met a woman who was doing hard physical work. She carried a stone that would be used for her house. Though I believe the stone was heavy, I found no complaint from her on doing the work. In another place, I saw a family building their house. All are women from different generations, but both can do construction work. Still, in the same village, I saw women fixing steel rebar for earthquake-resistant bands. It was community work in which everyone knew the importance of earthquake-resistant attributes that must be installed in each house. So, individuals, families, and communities can do as men did in reconstruction work. 

Read also: Adequate Housing for a Resilient Future

So, why is women’s role significant in housing recovery? In my perspective, there are at least two aspects that can support this idea. 

First, they are focused. Protecting their children and families motivates them to finish the construction very soon. A woman I met in Nepal was running against the clock, ensuring her house would be finished before the winter. Those who were trained in safer construction carefully installed the material to achieve a robust structure.  

Second, their presence brings more actors to complete the housing recovery ecosystem. To ensure the recovery will be sustainable, the process will continue even after the external support from the government and NGOs is gone. To create the ecosystem, additional support should be provided for the most vulnerable, improving access to livelihoods, the availability of financial service providers in the area, and so on. These initiatives are usually outside the scope of work of housing actors; therefore, partnering with non-shelter or non-housing agencies should always be attempted. 

Construction training enhances the role of women more effectively 

Then, how could we help women work on their role in housing recovery effectively? What is the best way to prepare women that makes them capable so they can confidently work for their houses and their neighbor’s houses? 

The first start is through construction training as it was done in Nepal and Indonesia. For instance, during the 2015 housing recovery in Nepal, the government launched a mason training program as a preparation initiative prior to the massive reconstruction program. A 7-day training course taught them how to build an earthquake resistance house according to the code properly. The training was inclusive for men and women. A curriculum contained classroom activities and field training; if they passed the training, they would get a certificate. Women have been encouraged to participate, but their presence still needs to be improved. 

Then, why were recovery agencies so serious about providing support for women? Is it too much to give attention to women working in construction? 

Actually, giving more attention to women and trusting them to play a more significant role in the reconstruction process is respecting the nature of recovery. We need the post-disaster reconstruction process to be natural, as there is no shortcut to swift recovery. Injecting support that is driven by political pressure or other than recovery from within will not be sustainable or even lead to failure. 

Women have a unique instinct to protect their children; wherever I work, I often find their persistence in finishing the construction in good quality and as soon as possible. It is their potential. The houses should be strong enough not to be damaged again if there is a similar hazard. Interestingly, they have their own design according to their needs; therefore, having houses with their design gives higher satisfaction than modular houses. Moreover, if they build the houses by themselves, they will be confident in repairing or extending them. Such sustainability that everyone is expecting. 

Therefore, giving women a significant role in housing recovery will maximize their efforts to support their families, resulting in good construction quality and timely completion. Moreover, as a bonus, women can earn income from construction, eradicating vulnerability in the affected areas. 

Writer: Arwin Soelaksono/Program Director Habitat for Humanity Indonesia 

(kh/av) 

A month ago, as the evening sky was still wet with drizzle, Siti Nurhayati (37) stood in front of her newly renovated home. Its bright blue walls symbolized a fresh start in her life. Her smile reflected astonishment as she stepped inside for the first time, moving simple furniture into a space that now served as a safe haven for her family. 

“The first time I entered this house, it felt strange. I couldn’t believe it was mine. It’s so beautiful, like a dream,” Siti recalled about the moment she first walked into her home, renovated by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. 

For years, Siti had been dreaming of owning a decent home. During that time, she lived in her parents’ old house, a modest structure made of bamboo walls that had long since deteriorated. Every corner of the house spoke of hardship, with its damaged walls and leaky roof posing constant challenges. 

“Our house was in terrible condition. The bamboo walls were full of holes, and my husband often patched them with old tarpaulins. When it rained, water came in from everywhere, and rats often invaded. It felt like there was no safe place inside,” Siti shared. 

Having a decent home was no easy feat for Siti. To make ends meet, she relied on the income of her husband, Junaedi (40), who worked as a construction laborer earning IDR 70,000 (approximately $5) per day—paid every two weeks, if his employer was punctual. 

Aware of their financial struggles, Siti tried her luck by selling laundry detergent door-to-door to her neighbors. However, the additional income was just enough to cover daily meals. 

“We lived in constant hardship. Our children are still in school, and I also take care of my older sibling who has a mental illness. It was overwhelming, especially since our house was on the verge of collapse,” Siti added. 

Read also: The Blossoming of New Hope in Siti’s Decent Home

Their circumstances changed when Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, along with generous donors and volunteers, came to rebuild Siti’s house and those of five other families in Rajeg, Tangerang Regency. 

“Alhamdulillah, this house has changed everything. I feel much more at ease, more comfortable. There are no more leaks, no more rats. My children are also more motivated to study,” Siti said gratefully. 

Now, Siti can set aside a small portion of her income for her children’s education. Junaedi also has more energy to take on side jobs. “Our burdens feel lighter. I can also take better care of my sibling without feeling so stressed,” she added. 

To Siti, this house is more than just a building. It is a new place that brings peace and hope for a better future. “My parents always told me a house must be cherished. This isn’t just for us; it’s for our children. This house will become their inheritance,” Siti said with hope. 

The blue house now stands tall, bringing hope and a new beginning for Siti’s family—a first step toward a more stable and self-reliant life. You can also take part in bringing change to families like Siti Nurhayati’s. Through your compassion, more homes can be built to provide safe and decent shelter for those in need. 

Visit www.habitatindonesia.org/donate to donate and become part of our mission to create a better life. 

(kh/av) 

The morning sun shone warmer in Mauk Barat Village, Mauk District, Tangerang. On that day, 30 enthusiastic volunteers gathered to fulfill a noble mission. With shovels in hand and hearts filled with dedication, they worked together to lay the foundations and build walls for three decent homes (14/12). This activity was not merely about volunteering—it held profound significance as a tribute to the late Raden Andreas Hapsoro. 

The initiative, titled “Hapsoro Tribute Build,” was not just about constructing houses but also embodied the spirit of a great figure who dedicated his life to humanity. For 19 years, Hapsoro was a vital part of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, leaving an indelible mark in the quest to provide decent housing for those in need. 

Hapsoro’s life was a colorful journey. He began his career as a freelance contractor and ventured briefly into the manufacturing sector before joining Habitat for Humanity Indonesia from 2000 to 2005. He later returned to Habitat Indonesia as a construction manager, overseeing housing projects for survivors of the 2004 Aceh tsunami. It was through this work that his calling as a humanitarian deepened. Over the next decade, he held various strategic roles, eventually becoming Disaster Response and Regional Manager. 

Hapsoro’s career took another significant turn when he was entrusted to serve as Disaster Response Specialist for Habitat for Humanity International in Makati, Philippines, from 2015 to 2020. Yet, his heart remained devoted to Indonesia. In July 2020, he returned to his homeland to serve as Director of Strategic Alliances at Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, while also contributing as a Disaster Risk Reduction and Response Senior Specialist at Habitat for Humanity International. 

Throughout his career, he played a critical role in disaster recovery efforts for major catastrophes, including the 2004 Aceh tsunami, the 2009 West Sumatra earthquake, the 2010 Mentawai tsunami, the Jakarta floods in 2012 and 2013, Typhoon Yolanda in the Philippines in 2013, the Bohol earthquake in the Philippines in 2023, the 2015 Nepal earthquake, Cyclone Winston in 2016, and the 2019–2020 flash floods in Bangladesh. 

Read also: Korean Volunteers Build Decent Homes in Tangerang

Hapsoro’s exemplary contributions were not limited to fieldwork but also extended to academia. In July 2024, he completed his postgraduate studies at University of Indonesia with a thesis titled “Post-Disaster Shelter Model Based on Family Resilience.” This work stands as a valuable legacy, reflecting his commitment to creating sustainable post-disaster housing solutions. 

Sadly, the world lost this inspiring figure on July 9, 2024. However, his spirit lives on. Through the “Hapsoro Tribute Build,” friends, colleagues, and Habitat for Humanity volunteers continue his mission. The construction of three decent homes in Mauk Barat Village is part of a larger plan to build ten homes. 

Today, Hapsoro’s legacy is not only seen in the sturdy buildings he helped construct but also in the humanitarian spirit he instilled in everyone who worked alongside him. May his passion continue to ignite others, inspiring them to walk the path of kindness and leave a lasting legacy for the world. 

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A group of eight volunteers from South Korea participated in constructing decent homes as part of the Global Village Program in Mauk Barat Village, Mauk District, Tangerang Regency, Banten (30/11). 

Read also: Love Built By Hand: Legacy Build 2024

Text & Photo: Kevin Herbian 

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That morning, the sun warmly greeted the village of Marga Mulya, Mauk District, Tangerang Regency. The sound of saws, bricks being lifted, and the laughter of volunteers blended with the lively activity of the surrounding community. It turns out that Wednesday, November 20, 2024, was a special day. A total of 13 volunteers from the Asia Pacific Development Council (APDC) and the Indonesia Development Council (IDC) were present, not as ordinary guests, but as volunteers helping to build a decent home for Mr. Tinggal and Mrs. Urni. 

The event, titled “Legacy Build 2024” with the slogan “Building Beyond Homes, Building Hope, Strengthening Communities,” saw the volunteers intentionally leaving the comfort of their daily routines for something more meaningful. That day, they worked side by side, installing the walls of the house, working directly under the scorching sun. 

“It’s so enjoyable to be involved in this type of project again, because the last time I did something like this was a long time ago when I was still in graduate school in America. I’m really excited and proud to be here,” said Elizabeth Satow, Area Vice President Asia Pacific for Habitat for Humanity International.  

On the other hand, Fernando Zobel De Ayala, APDC Member from Ayala Corporation, added with a warm smile, “I’m also happy to be here. This is my first time volunteering in Indonesia, and I think this is the best way to support families in Indonesia through Habitat’s programs.” 

For Harlan Stone, APDC Member and President and CEO of HTMX Industries, that day was an unforgettable experience. “Today is an extraordinary day for me. It’s my first time building a house in Asia during my career. Being here is the best gift I could ask for.” 

Perhaps the most touching words came from John Ryan, APDC Member and Chairman of the Board at Barnes & Noble Education. He said, “Although we are tired, even very tired, I’m now inspired by the initiative we are doing together to bring happiness to families here.” 

That day wasn’t just filled with hard work, but also laughter and gratitude. For Mr. Tinggal and Mrs. Urni’s family, the walls that were starting to go up marked the beginning of a dream soon to come true. The sturdy house that had once only existed in their dreams was now a reality before their eyes. 

After finishing the house-building activities, the volunteers continued their day by visiting other flagship programs of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. Among these, they directly witnessed the impact of the community empowerment programs, access to sanitation and clean water, as well as the successful completion of various decent homes. 

Read also: Digging Hope in Kampung Cinamprak: When the Young Volunteers of Sinarmas World Academy Build Decent Homes 

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia sincerely thanks all the volunteers for their contributions. Their support is proof that cross-country and cross-community collaboration can create real change. 

Let’s continue this fight together. Every family deserves to have a decent and safe home. Visit and support us at www.habitatindonesia.org/donate. 

(kh/av) 

Climate change is one of the greatest challenges facing humanity, and its impacts are being felt across the globe. However, despite housing being a necessity, this sector often receives insufficient attention on the global climate agenda. 

Habitat for Humanity, an organization focused on access to adequate housing, seeks to elevate this important issue through policy recommendations made at COP29. Adequate housing is not just about shelter; it is also a key to building resilience against climate change, especially for the most vulnerable communities. 

Housing in the Context of Climate Change 

Across the world, over 1.1 billion people live in informal settlements highly vulnerable to climate change impacts, such as flooding, extreme heat, and rising sea levels. While they contribute little to global carbon emissions, they are among the most affected by climate disasters. 

Habitat for Humanity emphasizes that adequate housing solutions must be an integral part of climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts. In its recommendations, Habitat for Humanity stresses the importance of integrating housing into Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). 

Integrating housing into climate strategies will allow countries to reduce carbon footprints, lower energy costs, and provide better protection for the most vulnerable communities. This is crucial to ensure that mitigation efforts do not only focus on the energy sector but also on the infrastructure that supports people’s daily lives. 

Adaptation for the Most Vulnerable Communities 

One of Habitat for Humanity’s main priorities is the urgent need for more funding for climate adaptation, particularly for the most vulnerable communities. These communities, especially those living in informal settlements, often lack access to adequate infrastructure and face greater climate risks. Habitat for Humanity calls on governments and international agencies to prioritize funding for adaptation actions that improve housing and infrastructure in areas most at risk from climate change. 

This adaptation funding must be used to support the construction of climate-resilient housing that can withstand impacts like flooding, droughts, and extreme heat. Additionally, strengthening community capacity to cope with climate change in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way is also a key part of this recommendation. Solutions that involve using eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs can help build homes that are more resilient to climate change while reducing their environmental impact. 

Read also: GUMREGAH TENAN: Collaboration between Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and the Government of Yogyakarta to Create Decent Housing and Livable Settlements

Green, Affordable, and Sustainable Housing 

While climate change mitigation efforts are critical, Habitat for Humanity highlights the potential of housing to provide solutions that not only reduce carbon footprints but also address the global challenge of housing affordability. One of the main problems the world faces is the growing deficit of adequate and affordable housing, especially in many rapidly developing cities. Therefore, Habitat for Humanity stresses the importance of ensuring that climate mitigation efforts in the housing sector do not drive-up housing costs for low-income communities. 

Affordable green housing solutions must be prioritized in global policies. Habitat for Humanity urges countries to invest in the renovation and retrofitting of existing housing to make them more climate-friendly, using low-carbon materials, and supporting energy-efficient designs. These efforts will help lower living costs and make homes more affordable for low-income families, particularly in rapidly growing cities. 

The construction sector must also adopt circular economic principles, where building materials can be recycled and reused to reduce waste and carbon emissions. This approach needs to be integrated into global housing policies to support the transition to a more sustainable future. 

Linking the Housing Sector with Global Climate Goals 

Habitat for Humanity emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the housing, urban development, environmental, and financial sectors to create holistic solutions. By integrating these sectors, countries can create more sustainable and climate-resilient housing while meeting the urgent need for affordable housing. 

Creating policies that strengthen community involvement, particularly for those living in informal settlements, is another critical step. Habitat for Humanity encourages ensuring that the voices of residents are part of the planning and decision-making processes regarding housing and climate adaptation, ensuring that policies truly meet the needs of those most affected. 

Habitat for Humanity calls on the world to view housing not just as a basic need but as a critical solution for building resilience to climate change. In the face of increasing climate challenges, adequate, green, and affordable housing is key to creating a more just and sustainable future for all. 

With the integration of housing into global climate policy, greater funding for adaptation, and a focus on affordable and climate-friendly housing, we can ensure that the most vulnerable populations can adapt and thrive in a changing world. Habitat for Humanity is committed to driving this change, and COP29 represents a pivotal moment to make it happen. 

(kv/av)