On May 1, 2025, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia celebrates its service as it reaches its 28th anniversary. This journey has been filled with hope, hard work, and collaboration to provide better living conditions for low-income communities across Indonesia. 

For nearly three decades, Habitat Indonesia has made a significant impact, reaching over 215,000 families through various programs that touch upon the fundamental aspects of their lives. Programs such as decent housing, access to clean water and sanitation, disaster response, economic empowerment, development of education and health facilities, and partnerships to improve housing access, all aim to help communities achieve a better quality of life. 

In 2025, Habitat Indonesia has successfully built 39,478 decent homes, an increase from 38,869 homes the previous year. A total of 31,375 families now have access to clean water and proper sanitation, a significant increase from 27,009 families in 2024. Additionally, 71,504 families have received renovation funding, demonstrating a commitment to creating safer and more comfortable homes. 

These numbers are the result of the hard work of the entire Habitat Indonesia staff and all those who have tirelessly worked in various regions, including Jakarta, Tangerang, Bogor, Karawang, Cilegon, Yogyakarta, Gresik, and Batam with the involvement of 2,399 volunteers from various background. 

Read also: When the Future Grows in a New Classroom

This success would not have been possible without the dedication, enthusiasm, and solid teamwork, as well as the support of various stakeholders, including partners, donors, and volunteers who have always been by our side. Habitat Indonesia stands strong thanks to this collaboration, which allows us to continue carrying out our noble mission of helping millions of families secure decent housing. Without them, these achievements would have been difficult to achieve. 

“We believe that every individual has the right to a decent place to live. On behalf of all the families we have helped, we would like to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has been part of this journey,” said Handoko Ngadiman, National Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. 

With continued enthusiasm, Habitat Indonesia is committed to moving forward. The programs we run not only provide short-term assistance but also long-term impacts that enhance the overall quality of life in communities. We believe that true change begins with providing opportunities, and we are determined to continue opening those opportunities for more families. 

“We are confident that, through collaboration, we can create real change that not only meets basic needs but also paves the way to prosperity for more people,” added Handoko. 

Habitat Indonesia’s journey is far from over. There are still many families in need of assistance. However, we will continue to stand by them, providing access to decent housing and opening opportunities for a brighter future for millions of families in Indonesia. 

Let us join hands and be part of the real change. For a better future, for every family, for a better Indonesia. 

(kh/av)

For most teenagers, volunteering may not be the first choice for spending their free time. However, for 17-year-old Denzel Setiawan, a high school student, his experience as a volunteer became a turning point that opened the way to a sustainable, innovative project. 

It all began when Denzel joined a project to build decent homes with his mother, who was part of the Thunderbird Alumni community. At that time, he was involved in a volunteering activity with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia in Mauk, Tangerang. Seeing firsthand the impact of decent homes for underprivileged families made Denzel start thinking about how he could do more. 

From this experience, Denzel joined Habitat Young Star, a movement that encourages young people to actively participate in social activities. Here, he found a space to channel his concerns, not only through his efforts but also through ideas and innovation. 

Denzel’s First Step 

Denzel’s interest in environmental issues and technology led him to an unusual idea: to make building materials from shell waste. The idea came to him when he wrote a paper about converting carbon dioxide into renewable energy during his 11th grade. Inspired by the abundance of shell waste in coastal areas, especially in Mauk, Denzel began designing an environmentally friendly mortar project. 

Bringing this idea to life wasn’t easy. He had to dedicate time outside of school to discuss with academics from the University of Indonesia, conduct tests, and formulate the right material mix. The biggest challenge came from the lack of references and methodologies to use as a guideline. 

Currently, the shell waste mortar project is still in the development phase. Although it is not yet ready for widespread use, Denzel remains optimistic that with continuous improvements, the outcome could become an alternative building material that is eco-friendlier and more sustainable. 

Lessons from Volunteering 

For Denzel, volunteering is not just about giving help; it’s also about learning and growing. Through his involvement with Habitat Indonesia, he gained many new experiences—from leading teams and interacting with communities to designing solutions based on real needs in the field. 

He believes the most important thing in social activities is commitment. He realized that meaningful contributions can only be made when someone is truly ready to show up and fully engage in the process. 

“If you’re ready and have the time, do it with all your heart. But if you can’t commit yet, it’s better to wait. Because when we get involved, we bring hope to others,” he said. 

Read also: Habitat Young Star: Kirana’s Story Brings Youthful Spirit to the Segar Hati Project

Small Steps, Big Impact 

Through his project, Denzel hopes to encourage young people to start with simple things. He believes that big changes always start with small steps. According to him, everyone can contribute according to their interests and expertise. 

Denzel himself chose a path close to his love for the environment. He hopes that more young people will see the potential of things often overlooked and turn them into solutions that benefit society. 

Denzel’s story is an example that youth is not an obstacle to creating change. With strong ideas, a spirit of learning, and care for others, young people can actively contribute to building a better future for communities and the environment. 

About Habitat Young Star 

Habitat Young Star is a movement initiated by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia to invite young generations to be agents of change—not only in building homes and beautifying public spaces but also in creating solutions that have an impact on the environment. 

Through real actions such as building decent homes, educating people on the importance of living healthily and cleanly, and innovative, sustainable solutions like waste management into eco-friendly materials, young volunteers show that care for communities and the earth can go hand in hand. Want to be part of this positive movement? Visit: www.habitatindonesia.org/become-volunteer 

(ss/kh) 

Summer vacations are often associated with relaxation and leisure time. However, for Kirana Ratomo, an 11th-grade student at Jakarta Intercultural School, summer became the beginning of a much more meaningful journey. Through her involvement as a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, Kirana embarked on an inspirational path that not only had a positive impact on her, but also on many children in surrounding communities. 

Meeting Habitat for Humanity Indonesia 

Kirana’s journey with Habitat Indonesia began when she participated in a mission trip program at her church, IES Jakarta. Along with her mother and older sister, Kirana got involved in building homes in Mauk, Tangerang. Although she had no experience in construction, she felt truly appreciated by the supportive volunteer team. 

“The team was so supportive, even though I wasn’t the best at building foundations or installing wires, they still valued my efforts. That’s what made this experience so valuable,” she recalls gratefully. 

Kirana’s enthusiasm grew, and she continued to engage in various Habitat activities, including an internship program that brought her closer to the communities that Habitat Indonesia supports. 

The Birth of Segar Hati Project 

Kirana has a great passion for the arts, and it was here that her creativity made a significant impact. Seeing that many children in underprivileged communities lacked a space to express their creativity, she was inspired to start a social project that combined art with social activities. Thus, Segar Hati was born—a non-profit project focused on murals and building playgrounds from recycled materials for kindergarten children around Jakarta. 

This project became an opportunity to introduce art as a medium of expression for children. Every Saturday, Kirana and other volunteers hold mural sessions at various locations, such as early childhood education centers, apartment complexes, and villages. 

“Painting is the best way to bond. There is no right or wrong picture; everyone can be creative. I want children to experience the freedom to express themselves through art,” Kirana explains enthusiastically. 

Read also: Digital Reading Corner: Enriching Learning Opportunities Together

A Journey Not Always Smooth 

Although the Segar Hati project brought much joy, challenges were inevitable. One of the hurdles was running out of paint during the mural process, while the nearest paint store was an hour away from the location. Additionally, Kirana admits that she initially struggled with delegating tasks to her team. 

“At first, I was a perfectionist and wanted everything done according to my own vision. But I’ve learned that teamwork is important. Now, I can delegate tasks more effectively and trust my team members,” she reveals, sharing the valuable lessons she’s learned along the way. 

The Real Impact of Segar Hati Project 

The positive impact of this project is evident, especially for the children involved. Kirana recalls how children who were initially shy and hesitant eventually became more enthusiastic and even started playing and joking around. 

“At first, they were afraid to talk to me, but after we painted together, the atmosphere became more relaxed. That was a very valuable experience,” says Kirana, reminiscing about the moments of joy and laughter. 

Kirana and her team plan to continue expanding the Segar Hati project. In addition to painting at early childhood education centers and apartment complexes, they aim to expand the project to children’s hospitals and other public spaces. Kirana hopes that more young people will be inspired to get involved in similar social activities. 

“Try new things. I started by building houses, something I never imagined before. But from there, I found that stepping out of my comfort zone could lead me to extraordinary experiences,” Kirana shares as a message for young people out there. 

Habitat Young Star: Becoming a Change Agent 

Kirana’s story is a real testament to the fact that a small step can lead to a big change. With her passion and dedication, she not only contributed to the community but also inspired many people to try, share, and create a positive impact. 

Habitat Young Star is a movement initiated by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia to involve young people as change agents. Through concrete actions, Habitat Young Stars directly contribute to volunteering activities, from building homes, beautifying public spaces, to educating the community about health and sanitation. 

Become a part of Habitat Young Star and channel your energy and creative ideas to bring about real change! Click here to join: www.habitatindonesia.org/become-volunteer 

(ss/kh)

That morning, excitement lit up the faces of the students at Pancar Bakti Junior High School in Bogor. One by one, they entered the classroom with confident steps and bright smiles. All 24 first-year students welcomed their school day with a new kind of enthusiasm. For the very first time, they could study in a newly built classroom—strong, safe, and comfortable—something they once could only dream of. 

Previously, the classroom was barely usable. Cracks large enough to form holes lined the walls, the floor tilted due to weakened structures, and the roof was on the verge of collapsing. The classroom, which should have been a safe space for learning, became a place filled with anxiety. Every day, students studied under the constant fear of danger that could strike at any moment. 

Mahra*, one of the students, still remembers how worried she used to be when sitting in class. “The old classroom always made me scared, Kak. I didn’t want to sit in the back because I was afraid it would collapse. I couldn’t concentrate on learning because my mind was all over the place,” she said. 

The same concern was shared by several teachers. Munawaroh, one of the school’s educators, admitted she often ran out of options. With limited classroom space, they were forced to continue using the room despite its hazardous condition. “I didn’t know what else to do. When it rained heavily or the wind got strong, we had to send the students home early for their safety,” she explained. 

A classroom should be a safe haven for learning—not a mental burden. If left unaddressed, such conditions could hinder the development and future of the students. 

Read also: Suparlik and the Rekindled Hope from a Kitchen

Building a Safe Space for the Future 

Hope began to rise when the renovation started in February 2025. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, supported by generous donors and volunteers, began rebuilding with a focus on the students’ safety and comfort. The project included reinforcing the building’s structure, replacing the roof and ceiling, installing new ceramic flooring, repairing door and window frames, and repainting the classroom to make it more pleasant and inviting. 

The changes have made a real difference. Teachers can now teach without fear, and students can learn with peace of mind. “Now I feel more confident stepping into the classroom. There’s no more fear like before. The students are also incredibly enthusiastic,” said Bu Munawaroh. 

Mahra, too, no longer dreads sitting in the back row. “Now I’m excited to go to school. I really like the color of the walls. The classroom feels safe and cozy now,” she said with a smile. 

A Learning Space as the Foundation of a Golden Generation 

More than just a renovation of a physical building, this classroom project is part of a larger effort to create a brighter future for Indonesian children. When they have proper learning spaces, they have more opportunities to grow, learn, and dream big. 

Access to safe, inclusive, and quality education is the right of every child. This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Number 4: “Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.” That’s why investment in educational facilities is not just about today—it’s about building a strong foundation for Indonesia’s future golden generation. 

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia believes that education is the key to change, and a safe classroom is the first step toward that transformation. Be a part of this journey. Support Habitat Indonesia’s education programs and help build more proper learning spaces for children across the country. Visit www.habitatindonesia.org/education-health and lend your hand today. 

(kh/av)

Yogyakarta, February 25, 2025 – After successfully providing clean water access in Bogor and Gresik Regencies, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia continues its commitment to ensuring clean water for communities in need across the country. From mid-2025 through 2026, this program will reach the villages of Pengkol and Pilangrejo in Nglipar Subdistrict, Gunung Kidul Regency, Yogyakarta.

A total of 250 residents in these villages will soon have access to clean water directly from the taps in their homes. Until now, the local community has faced significant challenges in accessing clean water, especially during the dry season. The region’s geography—characterized by highlands with karst formations—makes it difficult to extract groundwater and limits accessibility. To address this, deep well drilling will be carried out using methods tailored to the geological conditions of Gunung Kidul. Water from the wells will then be distributed directly to households through a piped system.

More than just providing clean water, this program also includes the development of supporting infrastructure. Ten household toilets will be built, 25 houses will be renovated, and 8 public facilities will be repaired to improve residents’ quality of life. To ensure the program’s long-term impact, Habitat Indonesia will also offer a series of community trainings. These include hygiene and sanitation (PHBS) training, Healthy Homes and Basic Construction training for 250 residents.

In addition, 30 individuals will be trained as Water Management Committee members, who will be responsible for operating and maintaining the clean water facilities in their communities. Habitat Indonesia will also conduct a Clean and Healthy Lifestyle campaign involving up to 1,225 people to broaden the program’s positive impact at the community level.

The Journey of Habitat Indonesia’s Clean Water Program

In its first phase (2023–2024), the program was implemented in Babakan Madang Subdistrict, Bogor Regency, using mountain spring sources to provide clean water access to over 500 homes. Additionally, 30 household toilets were constructed, 30 houses renovated, and 12 public facilities—including maternal and child health centers (posyandu)—were improved in two villages: Karang Tengah and Kadumanggu.

In the second phase (2024–2025), the program was extended to Wringinanom Subdistrict in Gresik Regency. Here, Habitat Indonesia built 75 bore wells, delivering clean water to more than 1,500 homes. The initiative also included the construction of 20 household toilets, renovation of 20 homes, and refurbishment of 12 public facilities to support healthier and more dignified living conditions.

Across both regions, more than 2,000 residents have received training in hygiene and sanitation, Healthy Homes, and Basic Construction. These educational components are crucial to ensure that the physical infrastructure goes hand in hand with healthier, cleaner living habits.

Read also: Continuing Collaboration: Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and AWS Build an Auxiliary Public Health Center and Classrooms in Karawang

Clean Water That Transforms Lives

For residents like Sudarjat from Karang Tengah Village, the program has made a tangible difference in everyday life. “Alhamdulillah, now over 500 people have access to clean water. It flows directly to our taps at home, and we can use it for bathing, drinking, and other daily needs,” he shared.

“Having access to clean water changes everything. Our lives are so much more dignified and hygienic now. Before this, we had to rely on a small, polluted stream—especially during the dry season,” Sudarjat added.

Similar gratitude was expressed by Kasemi, a resident of Sooko Village, Wringinanom.
“I waited 12 years to have clean water in my own home. All this time, I had to borrow from my landlord—it was uncomfortable and embarrassing. Alhamdulillah, now I can bathe, wash, and cook in my own home,” she said gratefully.

Together, Let’s Achieve Equal Access to Clean Water

Access to clean water and proper sanitation is a fundamental human right, as stated in Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Number 6. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia remains committed to making this right a reality for communities still struggling to obtain it.

Through this program, Habitat Indonesia is not only building physical infrastructure, but also fostering hope and creating a healthier future for thousands of families. We invite all #SahabatHabitat to continue supporting and praying for the success of the clean water initiative in Gunung Kidul. You can also take part by donating at www.habitatindonesia.org/donations/membangun-air-bersih

(kh/av)

In a quiet corner of a village in Gresik Regency, a mother named Suparlik (52) lives with her only daughter. Since her husband passed away three years ago, life has moved at a slower pace. Every day, she struggles to make ends meet—working as a farm laborer, selling getuk (a traditional Indonesian cassava cake) door-to-door, and running a small food stall in front of her aging parents’ house.

For Suparlik, every rupiah she earns isn’t just money—it’s an expression of love for her daughter, who is still in high school, and a simple hope to keep life going.

But behind her determination, there’s a reality not many people see. Her fragile house was full of discomfort. A termite-eaten kitchen, a toilet without a door, and bamboo walls that were close to collapse made every night filled with fear.

“At night, I’m the most scared,” she said quietly. “I’m so afraid someone might peek in. I hold off going to the kitchen or bathroom until the morning. I’ve cried over it.”

Her living conditions weren’t just physically draining—they also slowly chipped away at her spirit. She often delayed her morning activities, waiting for daylight before she dared to move. Many times, she opened her food stall late in the day.

Amid all this, her biggest concern remained her daughter’s future. “She wants to continue school, to go to college,” Suparlik said softly, her eyes welling with tears. “But I don’t know how I’ll ever afford it.”

Read also: Twelve Years of Waiting, Kasemi’s Struggle to Obtain Clean Water Access

That hope finally came in mid-2024, when Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, along with donors and volunteers, arrived in Sooko Village, Wringinanom District. They rebuilt uninhabitable homes—including Suparlik’s. The kitchen and bathroom that once brought fear were transformed into safe, clean spaces.

“I’m so happy and grateful. I never thought I could have a kitchen this good. Alhamdulillah, I’m not dreaming,” Suparlik said emotionally. “I’m deeply thankful to Habitat and the donors. I have nothing to repay this.”

Since then, Suparlik’s days have changed. She wakes up early without fear, starts selling getuk at 3 a.m., and opens her stall earlier than before. Her income has started to increase.

“Alhamdulillah, by 8 a.m., my goods are sold out, and I can open my stall earlier. Little by little, this has improved my income,” she said.

With this change, Suparlik is reigniting the dream she once put aside—saving for her daughter’s college education. A dream that once seemed distant now feels within reach.

Suparlik’s story reflects the truth that a decent home is more than just a place to live—it’s a foundation of hope, a starting point for change, and a space to grow stronger. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia believes every family deserves a safe, healthy, and dignified home.

Through shelter, peace grows. From peace comes courage. And with courage, the future can be rebuilt. Help us pave the way for more families like Suparlik’s. Build a decent home, and build hope through www.habitatindonesia.org/donate.

(kh/av)

Tangerang Regency, March 18, 2025 – Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, in collaboration with Sinarmas World Academy (SWA), continues to demonstrate its commitment to building a better future for communities. Through the Build a Brighter Tomorrow program, 10 families in Kampung Cinamprak, Mauk Barat Village, Tangerang Regency, now have safe and comfortable homes. 

The key handover ceremony was symbolically conducted by the Chairman of SWA Foundation, Deddy Djaja Ria; Program Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, Arwin Soelaksono; and representatives from the local government, including Mauk District Secretary Ahmad Saepul Anwar, Head of Institutional Affairs at the Tangerang Regency Department of Education and Culture, Nanang Chaeroni, and Head of the Tangerang Regency Regional Branch Office for the Banten Provincial Department of Education and Culture, Ahmad Suaheri. 

On this occasion, Nanang Chaeroni expressed deep appreciation for the established partnership. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for the efforts of Habitat and SWA in building decent homes in Kampung Cinamprak. This initiative truly brings a positive impact to the community,” he stated. 

A similar sentiment was shared by Ahmad Saepul Anwar. “On behalf of the local government, we express our deepest gratitude. I also hope that what Habitat and SWA have provided in this village will bring long-term benefits to the families receiving these homes,” he added. 

Meanwhile, Deddy Djaja Ria emphasized that this program is not just about building houses but also about building futures. “Our collaboration with Habitat in the Build a Brighter Tomorrow program is not merely about constructing houses but laying the foundation for families to live better, healthier, and more prosperous lives. May these new homes become places where happiness, hope, and brighter futures grow,” he said. 

Read also: A Blue Home and New Hope for Amalia’s Family

In addition to the key handover, the event also featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a volunteer initiative involving 17 SWA volunteers, including teachers, parents, and students. They participated in painting the walls of five housing units as a finishing touch to the construction. 

Janice, one of the SWA volunteers, shared her experience. “This is my third time joining a home-building project with Habitat. This time, I helped paint houses, and I felt truly happy because painting brings me peace. I hope what I did today helps the families here, and I will definitely recommend this activity to my school friends,” she said. 

Previously, SWA had conducted a similar volunteer initiative involving more than 30 volunteers who helped lay the foundations and install walls for decent housing units. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to provide safe housing for those in need. 

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia continues to invite young communities, schools, and other educational institutions to participate in creating a brighter future by building decent homes. Every small action taken together can lead to significant change, turning hope into reality and paving the way for a better life for communities across Indonesia. 

(kh/av)

Cikarang Pusat, March 13, 2025 – Habitat for Humanity Indonesia continues to strengthen its collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to bring real change to communities. In 2025, this partnership is realized through the construction of an auxiliary public health center (puskesmas pembantu) in Margamulya Village, Telukjambe Barat District, Karawang Regency, West Java. 

The collaboration was symbolized by a ceremonial handover from Sergio Loureiro, Vice President of Global Data Centers Operations at AWS, to Veronica Mualana, Deputy Head of Telukjambe Barat Public Health Center, during the annual AWS Community Collaboration Day in Cikarang Pusat – Bekasi. The event was attended by AWS executives, including Saji PK, Simon Tan, Winu Adiarto, Gayathri Prabhu, Jay Brennan, and Hidayah Lubis. Also present were Habitat for Humanity Indonesia’s National Director, Handoko Ngadiman, as well as representatives from other humanitarian organizations, including Tomy Hendrajati (President of Human Initiative), Romi Ardiansyah (Vice President of Operations at Human Initiative), and Sumanda Tondang (Executive Director of Rumah Energi). 

In addition to the construction of the auxiliary public health center, this year’s collaboration between AWS and Habitat Indonesia also includes building new classrooms for SDN Margamulya II in the same village. This initiative aims to improve access to better healthcare and education facilities for the local community. 

“We believe that everyone has the right to proper healthcare and education services. Through this collaboration between AWS and Habitat, we hope to bring real change to the people of Margamulya Village. This is part of AWS’s commitment to continuously contribute to building stronger and more empowered communities,” said Sergio Loureiro, Vice President of Global Data Centers Operations at AWS. 

Read also: Flowing Hope: Clean Water Solutions for the Future of Karawang

AWS and Habitat Indonesia’s commitment to supporting the healthcare and education sectors has been ongoing for years. Since 2022, AWS has partnered with Habitat Indonesia in the AWS Water Positive program, focusing on providing clean water access to communities in Karawang Regency. Through this initiative, nine clean water facilities have been built across four villages. In Baturaden Village, four water filtration points now utilize irrigation flow from the Citarum River, while in Wanajaya Village, one filtration point has been established using irrigation from the Cibeet River. Meanwhile, Cicinde and Lemahmukti Villages now have four bore wells ensuring a stable supply of clean water for residents. 

In the education sector, AWS and Habitat Indonesia have also introduced innovations through the AWS Think Big Space program at SMKN 1 Karawang. This program provides students and teachers with access to a modern digital space equipped with various advanced technological facilities, including STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) devices, 18 computers with access to AWS Skill Builder, Amazon Echo devices, a podcast studio, a 3D printer, and Virtual Reality (VR) equipment. 

The partnership between Habitat Indonesia and AWS has been ongoing since 2018, beginning with their response to the earthquake and tsunami in Palu. Over time, this collaboration has expanded, focusing primarily on clean water access, sanitation, education, and community resilience enhancement. 

“We are deeply grateful for AWS’s trust and support. Every challenge presents an opportunity for us to create better solutions for communities. Through this partnership, we have positively impacted thousands of people, including those in Karawang Regency. We hope this collaboration will continue and bring even greater benefits to society,” expressed Handoko Ngadiman, National Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. 

With various ongoing and upcoming initiatives, the collaboration between Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and AWS is expected to continue making a positive impact on communities, particularly in improving access to healthcare, education, and essential infrastructure. 

(kh/av)

Every morning, Kasemi (56) would let out a long sigh before lifting a bucket filled with water. Her aging hands still tried to be strong, slowly walking towards her neighbor’s house. For more than 12 years, she had been living this routine, fetching water from her landlord’s house because her own home did not have access to clean water.

“Every day is like this… it feels tiring, and also embarrassing, having to depend on other people,” she said softly. She often imagined how much easier her life would be if she had her own water source—being able to wash, cook, and even just take a shower without feeling indebted.

Kasemi and her husband, Sumari (65), have lived in Sooko Village, Wringanom Subdistrict, Gresik Regency, for over a decade. Their lives have been full of struggle. Sumari works as a construction laborer and farmhand with an uncertain income. Meanwhile, Kasemi takes care of the household amidst the existing limitations, including their biggest difficulty, which is clean water.

Every month, they must pay 40,000 Rupiah to use water from their neighbor’s house. However, that water source is not always reliable. Sometimes, the water pump breaks down and they have to look for water elsewhere. When the dry season arrives, water becomes even scarcer. “There’s no water, we have to use it sparingly,” Sumari lamented to Kasemi.

A life that was already difficult felt even heavier with this burden. Not only was it troublesome, but it was also worrying when there were urgent needs such as using the toilet or cooking.

Read also: A Drop of Water, A Million Hopes: Efforts to Build Clean Water Access for Hundreds of Residents

Hope arrived when Habitat for Humanity Indonesia built clean water access for more than 1,500 homes in Wringanom Subdistrict, including Kasemi’s house. Now, clean water flows directly into her home. There are no more back-and-forth trips with a bucket in hand, no more shame in having to ask others for water. “Now I can cook, shower, and wash without any hassle. I don’t have to be afraid of running out of water or having to be so frugal anymore,” said Kasemi with a relieved face.

This change is more than just getting water. It is a life change. Now, Kasemi can even water the plants in her yard without having to worry about being charged extra for water. “In the past, I had to count every drop of water I used. Now, the water is clean and plentiful, I’m not afraid of the bill swelling because it’s all free,” added Kasemi.

Access to clean water is not just a need, but a right that every individual should have. Now, Kasemi and her family can live more comfortably, without having to bear the heavy burden just to get something that should be easily obtained. A more decent life is finally what they feel, something they could only dream of before.

There are still many families like Kasemi who are struggling to gain access to clean water. You can help make this change happen by donating through Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. Visit www.habitatindonesia.org/donate and be part of the solution for a better life for those in need.

(kh/av)

That afternoon, Amalia (25) swept the front yard of her house, now standing strong with its blue paint, while carrying a sense of peace within her. Every now and then, she stopped to admire her new home, unable to hold back a smile. Her heart still struggled to believe it—the place that once existed only in her prayers was now truly hers.

She had been waiting for this moment for years. For more than five years, she and her small family lived in a cramped house, sharing space with her parents and older sibling. There was no privacy, no room for her child to play, and not even a comfortable place to rest.

But the most painful part was not just the lack of space—it was the fragile condition of the house itself. The bamboo walls had started to rot, the roof leaked in multiple places, and every time heavy rain came, she had to brace herself for flooding inside her home.

“My husband patched the roof with plastic. It helped a little—at least some parts didn’t leak. But when it rained heavily or the wind was strong, we were always on edge, afraid the house would collapse,” Amalia recalled.

As a mother, her heart was always filled with worry. Not just about the house, but also about the future of her young child. “Honestly, I felt so sad. I kept thinking, what about my child? What about his future? I wanted him to grow up in a better place, but it felt impossible for us,” Amalia added.

Read also: The Most Beautiful Gift of the New Year: A Decent Home Full of Hope

Then, a ray of hope finally appeared. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia built a new home right next to their old one. Now, Amalia and her family finally have a house they can truly call their own. “Alhamdulillah, I have no words. This house is more than just livable. It’s so much more comfortable—no more leaks, and my child sleeps so soundly now,” Amalia said with deep gratitude.

Now, she feels the heavy burden on her shoulders slowly lifting. No more anxiety when the rain falls, no more fear of a collapsing roof. “Now, I can take care of my child with peace of mind. I can teach him many things without worrying about our home. I feel more confident now,” she added.

A week after their new home was built, Darul constructed a small kitchen for Amalia. He wanted his wife to be able to cook comfortably and prepare meals filled with love for their little family.

Darul, who works as a construction laborer, has become even more determined to find additional work, splitting his time as a farmhand to save money for their child’s education in the future. “For me, a house is not just a place to live. It’s a place where I find my identity as a mother, a place where I can build a better life for my family,” Amalia said, her smile full of hope.

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

(kh/av)