Category: EN-ID Blog

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EN-ID Blog

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and Sinarmas World Academy Hand Over Decent Homes in Tangerang

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. 

A volunteer from Sinarmas World Academy (SWA) paints a decent home during the “Build a Brighter Tomorrow” volunteering event in Mauk – Kabupaten Tangerang (18/3). Photo: HFHI/Budi Ariyanto

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)

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EN-ID Blog

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

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. 

National Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, Handoko Ngadiman (second from the left), explains the collaborative program with Amazon Web Services at the AWS Community Collaboration Day in Cikarang Pusat – Bekasi (13/2). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

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)

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EN-ID Blog

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

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.

Kasemi utilizes the clean water access provided by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia in Wringinanom, Gresik (11/2). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

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.

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EN-ID Blog

A Blue Home and New Hope for Amalia’s Family

Amalia sweeps the front yard of her house in Mauk, Tangerang Regency (21/2). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

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.

Amalia (left) with her husband, Darul (right), and their son (center) gather and play in the front yard of their house in Mauk, Tangerang Regency (21/2). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

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)

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EN-ID Blog

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and the Regent of Tangerang Regency Lay the First Stone for the Revitalization of Tanjung Kait Village

A new chapter for an empowered Tanjung Kait community, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, together with various stakeholders, supports land ownership and safe housing for 110 families.

The Regent of Tangerang, Moch Maesyal Rasyid, lays the first stone for the Tanjung Kait Village Revitalization Program in Tanjung Anom Village, Tangerang Regency (3/5). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

Tanjung Anom, Tangerang Regency (March 5) – A new chapter of hope and transformation begins today in Tanjung Kait Village, a coastal area in Tanjung Anom, as Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, in collaboration with the Tangerang Regency Government, holds the groundbreaking ceremony for the village revitalization project. Attended by the Regent of Tangerang, this event marks a significant milestone in efforts to improve the living conditions of 110 low-income fishing families.

Tanjung Kait Village, nestled along a picturesque coastline, has long been home to generations of fishermen and their families. However, the community has faced numerous challenges, including substandard housing, poor sanitation, limited access to clean water, socioeconomic disparities, and the constant threat of natural disasters. Most residents, who rely on fishing and informal sector jobs, struggle with financial constraints and uncertainty regarding land ownership.

Recognizing the urgent need for intervention, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia initiated PASSA discussions (Participatory Approach for Safe Shelter Awareness) in August 2023. This collaborative process, involving the community, local government, and other stakeholders, focused on capacity building, promoting self-reliance, enhancing protection, and addressing socio-economic issues. After extensive planning, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia developed a concrete plan that includes:

  • Participatory Site Planning: A collaborative effort involving all stakeholders to support coastal area development and local tourism programs.
  • Access to Land Ownership: Facilitating easier financial schemes for low-income fishing families to secure land ownership, in partnership with Koperasi Mitra Dhuafa (KOMIDA), which provided loan access to 110 families in August 2024. The Land Ownership Deed Handover Ceremony was held in December 2024.
  • Construction of 110 Safe and Decent Homes: Designing and building disaster-resistant homes to provide a safe and secure living environment.
A resident walks past a row of demolished houses as part of the area restructuring in the Tanjung Kait Village Revitalization Program in Tanjung Anom Village, Tangerang Regency (3/5). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

Read also: A New Chapter Begins: Revitalization of Tanjung Kait Village Empowers 110 Families with Land Ownership and Decent Housing

“Today’s event signifies more than just a groundbreaking; it represents the foundation for a brighter future for the people of Tanjung Kait,” said Arwin Soelaksono, Program Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. “We are committed to working alongside the community and the Tangerang Regency Government to create sustainable and impactful change.”

To ensure transparency and active participation, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia facilitated extensive discussions with residents regarding the revitalization project. These discussions covered demolition procedures, construction phases, and housing allocations. This collaborative approach ensures that every resident clearly understands the process and feels a sense of ownership in their new community.

“The revitalization of Tanjung Kait Village is a testament to our commitment to improving the quality of life for all residents of Tangerang Regency,” said Tangerang Regent, Moch Maesyal Rasyid. “We appreciate the partnership with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and look forward to the positive impact this project will bring to the community.”

The year 2025 marks a fresh start filled with hope for hundreds of families in Tanjung Kait. More than just homes, they now have a safe and decent place to call home—a place that offers warmth, security, and a better future for their children. This project is not just about building physical structures; it’s about restoring dignity, rekindling dreams, and turning hope into reality.

(av/kh)

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EN-ID Blog

A New Chapter Begins: Revitalization of Tanjung Kait Village Empowers 110 Families with Land Ownership and Decent Housing

Several residents took part in a communal effort to level their homes in preparation for the construction of new, decent housing as part of the Tanjung Kait Village Revitalization program in Mauk, Tangerang Regency (27/2). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

Thursday, February 27, 2025, dawned with a different kind of light in Tanjung Kait Village. The atmosphere in Tanjung Anom Village, Mauk, Tangerang Regency, was vibrant. It wasn’t the usual hustle and bustle of the fish market or the sounds of fishing boats, but a new spirit permeating every corner of the village. 

Since early morning, dozens of residents gathered, not just to chat or go about their usual routines, but to work together in a spirit of community. They dismantled roofs, tore down walls, and cleared debris from the homes they had lived in for years. There were no gloomy faces or sadness, only enthusiasm and solidarity. The old houses were indeed being demolished, but in their place, new dwellings would rise—more decent, more comfortable, and more dignified. 

“Oh, I don’t feel sad at all. I’m actually very happy to be involved in this community effort. I can’t wait for my new house to be finished quickly, I want a better life,” said Komariyah, busy preparing fried snacks for the working residents. 

“It feels like a dream, sir! But it’s really happening. Habitat is building decent houses for us,” said Amah, her face full of gratitude, while moving furniture. “Finally, I’ll have a comfortable and safe place for my children to grow up,” she added. 

For decades, more than a hundred residents of Tanjung Kait Village lived in uncertainty. They not only struggled with substandard housing conditions but also faced land ownership issues. Their status was always in limbo, leaving them living in a constant state of anxiety. 

Several residents reviewed the housing layout and design of the Tanjung Kait Village Revitalization program in Mauk, Tangerang Regency (22/2). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

Read also: Photo: Developing Healthy and Inclusive Communities

However, through the Tanjung Kait Village Revitalization program, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, along with various parties, stepped in to bring about real change. It’s not just about building houses; this program also provides certainty for the residents. Since late 2024, hundreds of residents have received legal land certificates, thanks to collaboration with Koperasi Mitra Dhuafa (Komida). Now, they not only have homes but also clear rights to the land they live on. 

It doesn’t stop there; hundreds of residents also received rental assistance for temporary housing during the construction process. The Tangerang Regency Government played a role by providing heavy equipment to expedite demolition and build public facilities that support residents’ lives. Supporting infrastructure for fishermen and breakwaters to prevent abrasion are also part of this major revitalization plan. 

As part of transparency and resident involvement, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia also facilitated discussions with all residents about the revitalization project. These discussions covered demolition procedures, construction stages, and resident placement in the form of maps designed according to the joint decisions of various parties. Thus, every resident has a clear understanding of the process they will undergo and can directly participate in the construction of their future homes. 

The year 2025 marks a hopeful beginning for hundreds of families in Tanjung Kait. More than just houses, they now have a decent place to return to, a place that provides warmth, security, and a better future for their children. It’s not just about physical buildings, but also about restored dignity, revived dreams, and hope that is now a reality before their eyes. 

Several residents took part in a communal effort to demolish their old homes to make way for new, decent housing as part of the Tanjung Kait Village Revitalization program in Mauk, Tangerang Regency (27/2). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

Let us support the continued success of this program, ensuring it runs smoothly and delivers tangible benefits to the hundreds of families residing in Tanjung Kait Village. 

(kh/av) 

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Digital Reading Corner: Enriching Learning Opportunities Together

A number of students from SMP Pancar Bakti utilize the digital library space built by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and PT Centratama Group in Bogor (12/2). Photo: HFHI/Budi Ariyanto

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, in collaboration with PT Centratama Group, continues to demonstrate its commitment to advancing education in the country. This time, the partnership has resulted in an innovative project: the development of a digital library at SMP Pancar Bakti in Karang Tengah Village, Babakan Madang, Bogor. This initiative serves as concrete proof that inclusive and modern education can be achieved through the right synergy.

This project goes beyond simply providing a new library; it also involves a comprehensive renovation, including the construction of retaining walls, structural reinforcement, and mural painting to create a more inspiring learning environment. Additionally, the installation of electrical systems and the provision of supporting facilities—such as carpeted floors, study tables and chairs, sofas, lockers, LED TVs, sound systems, air conditioning, and other essential furniture—enhance the comfort of students and teachers, allowing them to enjoy a better literacy experience.

Beyond physical transformation, PT Centratama Group ensures that technology plays an integral role in this initiative. The company has facilitated the installation of software and technical training for the use of the Edoo Application, a digital library platform that grants students and teachers access to over 1,000 e-books across various categories, including general literature, academic subjects, and reference materials.

“The establishment of this digital library reflects our commitment to supporting digital transformation in schools. We hope this facility will foster a love for reading, improve student literacy, and integrate digital technology into the learning process,” said Yan Raymond, President Director of PT Centratama Group, during the inauguration ceremony at SMP Pancar Bakti, Bogor, on February 12.

The inauguration of the Digital Reading Corner at SMP Pancar Bakti, Bogor (12/2). Photo: HFHI/Budi Ariyanto

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

Now, more than 200 students and teachers have unlimited access to a vast array of reading materials directly from their smartphones, anytime and anywhere. The presence of this digital library is expected not only to enhance the quality of the learning process but also to support students in achieving higher academic performance. Moreover, this facility serves as an added value for the school, helping improve its accreditation by incorporating technology into daily teaching and learning activities.

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia has expressed deep appreciation to PT Centratama Group for its dedication and remarkable support. This initiative is not only benefiting the school in Bogor but is also being expanded to two additional schools: SMPN 3 Yogyakarta and SMPN 53 Batam, as part of the project’s second phase. Previously, in the first phase, similar programs were successfully implemented at SMPN 4 Sentolo Yogyakarta and MTs Maulana Malik Ibrahim in Gresik.

This support marks a concrete step toward achieving quality, equitable, and inclusive education while increasing learning opportunities for all children in Indonesia. May this initiative serve as an inspiration for more stakeholders to participate in the digital transformation of education across the country.

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EN-ID Blog

Photo: Developing Healthy and Inclusive Communities

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia invited a women’s group from Kampung Tanjung Kait to participate in a workshop on “Informal Settlement Upgrading and Gender Equity in Health Study” in Mauk, Tangerang Regency (7/2).

During the workshop, participants took part in discussions to identify challenges in their living environment and explore possible solutions.

This initiative aims to enhance participants’ awareness and understanding of the importance of environmental improvements and gender equality. Ultimately, it seeks to drive meaningful change in creating healthier, safer, and more decent settlements.

Paulus Punjung (left), Government Relations, Advocacy & Partnership Specialist at Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, opened a workshop titled “Informal Settlement Upgrading and Gender Equity in Health Study” in Mauk, Tangerang (7/2). In his opening remarks, he presented a hypothesis on the social inequalities often experienced by women and children. Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian
Robert Sulistyo (left), Program Development Specialist at Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, engaged the women’s group from Kampung Tanjung Kait in a discussion during a workshop in Mauk, Tangerang (7/2). In this session, participants were encouraged to identify various issues commonly encountered in their environment. Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian
Several participants engaged in discussions during a workshop session in Mauk, Tangerang (7/2). A total of 20 women from Kampung Tanjung Kait were asked to identify various issues frequently occurring in their residential environment. Additionally, they were encouraged to classify each issue and formulate appropriate solutions to address them. Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian
Notes written by participants during the workshop in Mauk, Tangerang (7/2). Before formulating solutions to the identified issues, participants first engaged in group discussions to align their perceptions and understanding. Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian
Several participants posted sticky notes containing problem-solving ideas during the workshop in Mauk, Tangerang (7/2). The notes were organized based on topics or categories prepared by the Habitat for Humanity Indonesia team. Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian
The Habitat for Humanity Indonesia team assisted participants in placing sticky notes during the workshop in Mauk, Tangerang (7/2). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian
Sylvinus Jowi Pedor (center), MEAL Senior Specialist at Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, presented the findings and conclusions summarized from participants’ notes during the workshop in Mauk, Tangerang (7/2). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian
The participants’ enthusiasm during the workshop in Mauk, Tangerang (7/2). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian
A group photo of the Habitat for Humanity Indonesia team and the 20 workshop participants in Mauk, Tangerang (7/2). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

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Flowing Hope: Clean Water Solutions for the Future of Karawang

Ranta, a resident of Baturaden Village in Karawang Regency, never imagined that today she would enjoy clean water flowing directly into her home. For over 40 years, clean water was a dream that felt far from reality. 

“The water pressure is strong, sir. And it’s clean too,” Ranta said joyfully when met at her home. 

However, their happiness came after a long and difficult journey. For years, Ranta and hundreds of families in her village were forced to use water from the Citarum River, which was already polluted. This water was used for washing clothes, bathing, sanitation, and even cleaning food for consumption. Unfortunately, the water they relied on became a health hazard. “Skin diseases were common. From itching, tinea versicolor, scabies, to ringworm,” Ranta recalled. 

Ranta relies on the polluted Citarum River to meet daily needs in Baturaden Village, Karawang. Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

Lukman, a resident of Cicinde Utara Village, shared a similar struggle. As a traditional fish producer, clean water was essential for his business. “My production of pindang fish decreased because it was hard to get clean water, especially during the dry season. Even though we had water from wells, it wasn’t always good; it was often dirty,” Lukman explained. 

In Cicinde Utara Village, more than 90 families who depend on pindang fish production faced the same issue. The lack of clean water affected not only their daily lives but also their livelihoods. 

Beyond household and economic impacts, the lack of clean water also posed challenges in the education sector. At SDN Wanajaya 1, a public elementary school in Karawang Regency, teacher Estika Mulia often worried about the water used by her students. “We rely on irrigation water from the Cibeet River. But the water is often dirty, especially during the rainy season when it carries runoff from Bogor. I worry about the children getting sick,” she said with concern. 

Concrete Steps Toward Change 

Seeing this dire situation, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS), took real action. Through the AWS Water Positive program, they constructed nine clean water access points across four villages in Karawang Regency. 

In Baturaden Village, Habitat Indonesia and AWS built four water filtration points utilizing the irrigation flow from the Citarum River. Meanwhile, in Wanajaya Village, one filtration point from the Cibeet River’s irrigation flow was established. Additionally, Cicinde Utara and Lemahmukti Villages now have four drilled wells, ensuring a clean water supply for their residents. 

A resident utilizes the clean water access facility built by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia in collaboration with AWS in Baturaden Village, Karawang (22/1). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

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

The Karawang Regency Health Office tested all these clean water facilities, ensuring that the water flowing into residents’ homes met quality standards for safe use and consumption. 

“On behalf of the government, I would like to express my gratitude to AWS and Habitat for their outstanding support in addressing clean water scarcity in Karawang. We hope that what has been built can be well maintained and provide significant benefits to the community, ultimately improving their quality of life,” said Ridwan Salam, Head of BAPPEDA Karawang Regency, during the inauguration of the AWS Water Positive Project in Baturaden Village (18/2). 

A New Life Begins with Clean Water 

Today, thousands of residents are feeling the positive impact of this initiative. Their lives have transformed in areas ranging from health to the economy and education. 

“We no longer suffer from skin diseases as frequently. My wife now confidently uses the clean water for cooking. My children and grandchildren no longer use dirty river water,” Ranta expressed with gratitude. 

Lukman also shared the joy, as his business saw a boost in production. “Our pindang fish production has increased. Now, we can sell more, and our income has risen. This change has really helped my family,” he said. 

At SDN Wanajaya 1, clean water has made a significant difference for the students as well. “Now we can teach the children proper handwashing practices. The clean water flows every day, so we no longer worry,” Estika said with a relieved smile. 

Estika and her students use the clean water access facility built by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and AWS in Wanajaya Village, Karawang (23/1). Foto: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

More Than Just Construction 

In addition to providing access to clean water, Habitat Indonesia and AWS also facilitated technical training for local community committees to manage the clean water treatment facilities. 

Through small steps and significant collaboration, life in Baturaden, Cicinde, Wanajaya, and Lemahmukti Villages has changed. From the stories of Ranta, Lukman, and Estika, clean water is not just about physical needs—it is about hope and a better future for the entire community. 

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EN-ID Blog

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

A total of eight members of the Habitat for Humanity Indonesia team hiked up the hill toward the water source location in Babakan Madang, Bogor (9/2). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

Heavy rain poured over Bogor Regency throughout the night, leaving the rocky footpath wet and slippery in the morning. The air was still cold as the Habitat for Humanity Indonesia team prepared to set off toward the hill. There, deep within the dense forest, lay a water source that the residents of Babakan Madang had long awaited. 

This was no ordinary journey. With determination, the team members trekked the steep terrain for over 30 minutes, navigating muddy and rocky trails while pushing through the forest, still damp from the night’s rain. Fatigue was not a barrier—because they knew that every step taken was part of a greater mission: bringing clean water access to hundreds of people who had been living with limited resources. 

Upon arrival, they wasted no time and immediately divided tasks. Some team members began measuring the width of the small river to be dammed at three meters, ensuring that the dimensions of the dam would be strong enough to store and channel water to residents’ homes. Meanwhile, others carefully measured the water flow rate, calculating how much could be distributed to each home, prayer hall, mosque, and school in dire need of clean water. 

Several members of the Habitat for Humanity Indonesia team measured the flow of a small river that will be dammed to collect clean water in Babakan Madang, Bogor (9/2). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian.

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For years, the residents had relied on the mountain’s natural springs for their daily needs. But the water was not always abundant. During the rainy season, the flow was plentiful, yet in the dry season, water became scarce and a source of conflict. Many families lacked access to clean water entirely, making equal distribution an urgent necessity for the entire community. 

“This dam is being built to address the issue of limited clean water access, especially during the dry season, and to ensure equal distribution for all residents,” explained Rendra, WASH Manager of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, while surveying the site with his team. 

What Habitat Indonesia is doing today is an investment in the future. This project is not just about constructing infrastructure—it is about building healthier and more dignified lives. Every drop of water that will flow from this dam is not only to meet basic needs but also to nurture hope and prosperity for every family in the village. 

Several members of the Habitat for Humanity Indonesia team discussed the plan for constructing a clean water dam in Babakan Madang, Bogor (9/2). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

Help us provide clean water access to more families. Your donation through #SahabatHabitat can bring hope to those in need. Visit www.habitatindonesia.org/donations/membangun-air-bersih to contribute. 

(kh/av)