The dry season always brings anxiety to the residents of Cicadas Village, Kadumanggu, Babakan Madang District, Bogor Regency. For them, it’s not just about the scorching sun, but also the time when water becomes a scarce commodity. However, this year, the atmosphere in the village is different. Hundreds of families welcome the dry season with an unusual feeling: happiness. 

Whoosh! 

The clear sound of clean water gushing from a hose echoed amidst the laughter of children playing under the sun. They were playing around a sturdy new water tower, built by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia along with philanthropists and volunteers. The water is clear, odorless, and flows strongly without obstruction. This sight marks a significant change in life for Cicadas Village. 

Just behind the children, Ms. Teti, a housewife and member of the water management committee, was calmly washing dishes. Her hands were nimble, but her face conveyed deep relief. “I’ve lived here for decades, and this is the first time I’ve experienced water that is truly clean and can be used anytime,” Teti said when we met on June 25th. 

Ms. Teti, along with hundreds of other families, had long yearned for access to clean water suitable for daily needs. For years, they could only rely on polluted river water for bathing, washing clothes and dishes, and even cooking. It was not uncommon for them to use water from rice field irrigation channels, which were unfit for consumption. 

Conditions worsened during the dry season. Residents had to walk long distances carrying buckets to get water. This activity not only drained their energy but also consumed time that could have been used for work or caring for their families. Often, the collected water was murky and contaminated. 

“That dry season lasted four months, and we were all very troubled, Sir,” Teti recalled. “We carried large buckets all the way to the big river source, using vehicles. The fatigue was immense,” she added. 

Teti also shared that due to the use of unclean water, children in her village often experienced skin problems. Itchy skin and infections were common complaints. All of this went on for years without any real solution. 

Read also: Habitat for Humanity Indonesia Brings Clean Water Access to Gunung Kidul

A ray of hope appeared when Habitat for Humanity Indonesia arrived, offering assistance in providing access to clean water. By partnering with various organizations, two water towers were built to meet the basic needs of hundreds of residents and students of SDN 06 Babakan Madang. Water from the river around the village is filtered through a filtration system, making it suitable for consumption as declared by the local Health Office. 

Teti said that now residents no longer must struggle to find water, and more and more people are starting to use clean water facilities. “Now we don’t get tired of looking for water anymore. Many residents here are also flocking to use this clean water,” Teti said. 

Access to clean water forms the foundation for the emergence of a healthier, more productive, and empowered community. In Cicadas Village, time previously spent searching for water is now used for working, schooling, and caring for families. Teti mentioned that children now rarely experience skin complaints, parents look more focused on their livelihoods, and interactions between residents have become closer thanks to shared facilities managed collectively. Access to clean water has strengthened the spirit of cooperation and social care within the community. 

This program is part of the commitment to the sixth point of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which affirms that access to clean water and sanitation is a basic human right. Through the construction of clean water infrastructure, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia restores dignity and opens the way to a more decent future for Indonesian families. 

For anyone who wishes to contribute to real change, this program is open to support. Every contribution, no matter how small, will contribute to a healthier and more dignified life for many families across the country. 

Visit: habitatindonesia.org/donations/membangun-air-bersih 

(kh/av)

Sabu Raijua, June 20, 2025 – For the first time since its establishment 28 years ago, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia has expanded its service reach to Sabu Raijua Regency, East Nusa Tenggara Province (NTT). This presence marks an important milestone in efforts to improve the quality of housing, sanitation, and clean water, while also promoting community empowerment in a region still facing serious challenges in basic infrastructure. 

The program officially began with the Inauguration (Kick Off) of the Sabu Raijua Regency Village Development Program for 2025–2026, held at the Sabu Raijua Regent’s Office Hall on Friday (June 20). The event was attended by the Regent of Sabu Raijua, Krisman B. Riwu Kore, SE., MM., Habitat for Humanity Indonesia National Director, Handoko Ngadiman, who attended online, as well as local government officials, representatives from Habitat Indonesia, and several other stakeholders. 

High Housing Backlog and Unfit Homes in NTT 

According to 2024 National Socio-Economic Survey (Susenas) data from BPS, Indonesia still faces a housing ownership backlog of 9.9 million units. Meanwhile, East Nusa Tenggara Province ranks second nationally in terms of the number of uninhabitable homes, with over 340,000 units recorded as not meeting standards. Furthermore, 90,535 families in NTT do not yet own their homes. 

As reported by Kompas, low public purchasing power is the main cause of this problem. Most affected families fall into decile 1 and decile 2, which are the lowest income groups. Many homes in these areas still have dirt floors, walls made of bamboo or lontar palm fronds, thatched roofs, no electricity, no access to clean water, and no proper bathing, washing, and toilet facilities. 

Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration 

Seeing these conditions, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia has partnered with the Sabu Raijua Regency Government, donors, and volunteers to implement an initial intervention program in Liae District, an area considered to have very challenging socio-economic conditions. 

The targets for 2025 are: 

• Construction of 5 new decent homes 
• Construction of 6 household toilets 
• Construction of 2 toilets for primary schools 
• Construction of 8 dug wells for clean water 
• Renovation or improvement of 2 village reservoirs 
• Training for 20 local construction workers 
• PHBS (Clean and Healthy Living Behavior) education for 190 residents 
• Water management committee training for 10 village residents 

This initiative not only targets physical construction but also focuses on strengthening knowledge capacity and empowering local communities to ensure the program’s long-term sustainability. 

“This program is not just about physical development; it is a shared commitment to fighting for a more decent, humane, and dignified life for the people of Sabu Raijua,” emphasized Regent Krisman in his speech. 

Read also: Empowering NTT Through Music: Habitat for Humanity Indonesia Successfully Hosts Habitat Charity Concert 2024 “Songs for NTT”

Hope for Broader Expansion and Collaboration 

Although the initial implementation only covers a small part of Liae District, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia expresses an open commitment to expand the program’s reach to other priority areas in Sabu Raijua Regency. 

Through continuous coordination with the local government and cross-sector collaboration, Habitat Indonesia encourages active participation from various parties—individuals, communities, companies, and philanthropic institutions—to contribute to building a better future for communities in this underdeveloped region. 

Because ultimately, the right to a decent home is not just a basic need, but a crucial foundation for a healthy, productive, and dignified life. And to achieve this, collective effort, solidarity, and concrete action from all levels of society are needed. 

(kh/av) 

Jakarta, June 25, 2025 – The 16th Tim Mackay Golf Invitational powered by Conwood was successfully held on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at Damai Indah Golf – BSD Course. This prestigious annual tournament once again brought together professionals from the property and construction industries, serving not only as a premier networking event but also as a platform for giving back to the community.

Organized by the Propcon Golf Club and fully supported by Conwood along with more than 40 sponsoring companies, the tournament welcomed 138 participants, all of whom were exclusive invitees from sponsor partners.

Carrying the spirit of “Giving Back to Humanity,” this year’s tournament partnered with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and successfully raised IDR 390,000,000. The funds will support the reconstruction of two elementary schools in Gresik and Teluk Jambe, providing better access to education for children in these areas.

“We are truly grateful for the participation and support from all sponsors and players. This is more than just a golf tournament—it is a shared step toward a brighter educational future for Indonesian children,” said Mr. Desmond Kandiawan, Chairman of Propcon Golf Club.

“As the charity partner of the 16th Tim Mackay Golf Invitational, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia deeply appreciates every form of support provided by Propcon Golf Club for the two schools we are about to rebuild. Through golf, together we can help shape a brighter generation for Indonesia,” affirmed Abraham Tulung, Resource Development General Manager of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia.

The tournament was filled with competitive spirit, enthusiasm, and camaraderie. Surya King claimed the Best Nett Overall title, while Simon Reynolds was awarded Best Gross Overall.

This event not only served as a valuable professional networking opportunity but also reinforced the commitment of the industry community to contribute meaningfully to social development through the sport of golf.

About Propcon Golf Club

Propcon Golf Club is a golf community comprised of professionals and players from Indonesia’s property and construction industries. Established in 2008, the club currently has 80 permanent members and regularly holds monthly tournaments, in addition to two major annual events. Propcon aims to strengthen relationships among its members, advance the property and construction sectors, and contribute to social causes under the spirit of “Giving Back to Community.”

(ss/av)

Tangerang, June 21, 2025 – Habitat for Humanity Indonesia has once again partnered with MedcoEnergi and the Medco Foundation to build stronger communities by providing decent homes for low-income families. This renewed collaboration includes the construction of 15 decent homes in Sukamanah Village, Rajeg Subdistrict, Tangerang Regency.

A hundreds volunteers from MedcoEnergi participated in the homebuilding activities, supporting 10 beneficiary families. This volunteer effort was also part of MedcoEnergi’s 45th anniversary celebration, under the theme “We repair houses for better living!”

This commitment marks a continuation of the strategic partnership between Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and Medco that began in 2023. Over the past two years, similar programs successfully built 39 decent homes in Marga Mulya Village, Mauk Subdistrict—10 units in the first year and 29 in the second—all designated for families living in extreme poverty or those categorized in the second income decile.

Yani Panigoro, President Commissioner of MedcoEnergi, who was present during the volunteer event, emphasized that compassion has been a core value of the company since its inception. “True energy isn’t just produced—it’s shared. When a family has a decent home, it’s not just about shelter; it’s about creating space for children to learn, for parents to work, and for a hopeful future to grow,” she said.

Read also: From Sore Hands to Full Hearts: Trisula Volunteers Build Decent Homes

The importance of providing adequate housing is further underscored by data from the Ministry of Public Works and Housing (PUPR), which reported a housing ownership backlog of 12.71 million units as of 2023. In addition, more than 2.6 million households are still living in substandard conditions.

This reality underscores the crucial role of the private sector in accelerating access to decent housing. Rajeg Subdistrict Head, Oman Apriaman, expressed his appreciation for MedcoEnergi’s contributions to the region. He noted that Sukamanah Village is classified as an area of extreme poverty, with many residents coming from the lowest income groups. “We are grateful that MedcoEnergi is taking real action in our area. We hope this program continues and reaches even more families in need,” said Oman.

In addition to building homes, the volunteer activities also included free health check-ups and public health education for residents. These efforts reflect a holistic approach to community development—recognizing that resilience is not only built with bricks and mortar, but also through health and social well-being.

Through this initiative, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, MedcoEnergi, and the Medco Foundation demonstrate that real change doesn’t happen alone. It is born from shared effort, from a spirit of compassion, and from the belief that a decent home is a fundamental right—one that opens doors to a better future.

(kh/av)

That morning, the sun slowly peeked from behind the trees in Karang Tengah Village, Babakan Madang District, Bogor Regency. Its warm rays danced among the dew drops that had yet to evaporate, greeting the enthusiastic faces of volunteers who were beginning to gather. Among them stood Siti, an employee of Trisula Corporation, who, instead of sitting in front of a computer, was holding pliers and iron wire.

Her hands were busy assembling iron for the house’s foundation. This was Siti’s first time joining a house-building effort with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. Her face was flushed from the sun and physical work, but her smile never faded. “Wow, this is really fun and quite tiring, actually. My fingers feel stiff. Usually, I’m typing, and now I’m a construction worker. But it’s really exciting,” she said with a laugh.

Not far from her, Lili, her colleague, felt the same way. “Today was really fun, being able to be directly involved in building homes for families here. This experience makes me feel more grateful,” she said with sparkling eyes.

That day was more than just fieldwork. More than that, it was a day of gotong-royong (cooperation), a day where companies, communities, and volunteers joined hands to achieve something greater than themselves. Through the collaboration between Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and Trisula Corporation, seven low-income families in Karang Tengah Village would have more decent, safe, and dignified homes.

The process began on June 14, 2025, when over 80 Trisula employees built the house foundations. A week later, on June 21, more than 60 other employees returned to install the house walls. From pillar to pillar, brick by brick, they built not just physical structures but also spirit and hope.

Read also: Supporting Indonesia’s Three Million Homes Program: Habitat for Humanity Indonesia Prioritizes the Lowest and Lower-Middle Income Groups

Julifer, Director of PT Mido Indonesia (a subsidiary of Trisula), was present at the location and stated, “Through this activity, we want to show a real contribution in helping others. We hope that these houses built can become comfortable homes, as well as open greater opportunities for recipient families to earn a living and build a better future.”

Carrying the spirit of “Let’s Create a Better Life for All,” this collaboration was more than just corporate social responsibility. This activity became a meeting place between the corporate world and community realities. Interestingly, the beneficiaries did not just wait for their houses to be built. They also participated, blending into the rhythm of construction, contributing their energy and spirit.

Throughout that day, the sound of hammers echoed with laughter. Volunteers and residents shared stories, shared food, and even shared sweat. They formed lines, lifted bricks, mixed cement, all done with the same heart – a caring heart.

Activities like this not only leave behind livable homes for families in Karang Tengah Village but also deep memories for Trisula Corporation employees. For the employees, this experience opened their eyes and hearts to realities often overlooked in daily life. For the recipient families, this is the beginning of a new life: safer, more dignified, and full of hope.

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia expresses its highest appreciation to all Trisula volunteers. For us, every wall built is a symbol of care. Every foundation laid is a small step towards a more certain future. Because a home is not just a place to live; a home is where hope begins, and a meaningful life grows from there.

(kh/av)

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia warmly welcomes and fully supports the initiative of the Government of the Republic of Indonesia through its “Three Million Homes” program aimed at alleviating housing poverty. Based on data from the Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR), Indonesia’s housing backlog reached 12.71 million units in 2023. Furthermore, approximately 2.69 million households still occupy uninhabitable homes. We believe that every family in Indonesia deserves a decent, safe, and healthy home as a foundation for a better life.

In line with this spirit, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia has a strong commitment to making a tangible contribution to achieving this noble goal. However, we believe that the most significant impact can be achieved by focusing our efforts on the most vulnerable communities, who are often marginalized from formal housing access.

Therefore, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia specifically directs its support within the “Three Million Homes” program towards providing decent housing for communities in the lowest economic groups (decile 1), with a per capita income below Rp500,000,-/month, and lower-middle income groups (decile 2), with a per capita income of less than Rp1,200,000,-/month. These groups, with their limited and often unstable incomes, face significant barriers in accessing banking services and conventional housing finance schemes due to not meeting credit eligibility requirements. An innovative and collaborative approach is needed to reach those most in need, ensuring that the dream of owning a decent home is not impossible.

Furthermore, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia prioritizes women-led households and people with disabilities. These groups often face double vulnerability in accessing safe and affordable housing. Therefore, our decent housing program is inclusively designed, prioritizing and considering their specific needs, and empowering them to own homes that improve their quality of life and independence. This strategic focus is based on our conviction that by prioritizing the most vulnerable community groups, we not only provide shelter but also open doors to improved health, education, and family economic stability. This is a long-term investment in building a more just and prosperous Indonesian society.

Read more: Habitat for Humanity Indonesia Partners with the Ministry of Housing and Residential Area of the Republic of Indonesia to Support the 3 Million Homes Program

As a first step, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia has collaborated and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Ministry of Housing and Human Settlements of the Republic of Indonesia, Directorate General of Rural Affairs, Tangerang Regency, Tangerang City, Bogor Regency, Karawang Regency, Kulon Progo Regency, and Gunung Kidul Regency for the development of decent human settlements.

Moving forward, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia invites corporations, academics, and partners to collaborate. Together, we can build resilient, inclusive communities and provide equal opportunities for every family to have a decent home – a place where hope grows and futures are built. Together, we can make a real and sustainable impact, contributing to the government’s “Three Million Homes” program to reach the most vulnerable segments of Indonesian society.

(av/hh)

Access to clean water is indeed the first step in creating a healthy environment, but to achieve sustainable change, education on Clean and Healthy Living Behaviors (PHBS) is equally important. This is what Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, in collaboration with PT Bumi Resources Tbk, has been doing in Kampung Wangun 2, Karang Tengah Village, Babakan Madang (2/5). 

A total of 208 local villagers participated in the PHBS Knowledge Enhancement activity, designed to raise awareness about the importance of personal and environmental hygiene. Through a fun and interactive approach, participants learned in an engaging way. Activities such as practicing the six steps of handwashing, interactive quizzes on hygiene myths and facts, and a sanitation-themed snakes and ladders game made the training not only informative but also enjoyable.

One of the participants, Tami, shared that the training was very beneficial. “I now understand more about family hygiene. The little things I used to overlook have a big impact. I will be more careful in maintaining cleanliness,” said Tami.

Tami’s experience reflects the everyday reality of many families in Babakan Madang, where illnesses like diarrhea and dengue fever (DBD) have been persistent challenges—largely due to limited access to proper sanitation and hygiene facilities.

To address these challenges, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, with the support of PT Bumi Resources Tbk, had previously assisted 159 families in Kampung Wangun by providing PHBS training and access to clean water. This support laid a strong foundation for collective behavioral change across the community.

Through this initiative, Habitat Indonesia hopes that every small step taken by individuals will have a significant impact on the health of families and the community. With healthy habits instilled in every household, the goal is to create a stronger and healthier community in the future.

Read also: Photo: Developing Healthy and Inclusive Communities

(kh/av)

Since childhood, Mrs. Juniati (42) grew up with her parents in a modest home. The same house where she now cares for her parents in their old age. Despite the many memories, the house they lived in was no longer fit for habitation. However, it had never crossed her mind that the help to repair the house would come from the generosity of donors and volunteers from Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. 

The house she grew up in with her parents now looks different. The house that was once made of plywood with an asbestos roof and a light steel frame now stands strong, offering the safety and comfort they had never experienced before. 

Previously, every time heavy rain poured down, Mrs. Juniati had to prepare to collect the water that seeped into the house, as if she didn’t, the entire house would be flooded. The same was true when strong winds came, the whole family had to sit anxiously outside the house. 

“It wasn’t just the heavy rain that worried me. When the wind came, we all had to sit in front of the house, afraid the house would collapse. It would creak, creak…,” said Juniati, recalling the tense moments they went through. 

Financial limitations added to the burden. Her husband, Indra (42), a construction laborer, earned less than 130,000 IDR (approximately 8 USD) per day. With that income, fixing their broken house was not something they could afford. “If we had money, we would definitely want to build. But that’s just wishful thinking. We’re barely getting by, pressed by the economy,” said Juniati. 

Read also: Starting Over with the Key to a Decent Home

But one day, a ray of hope came. The Habitat for Humanity Indonesia team visited their home and offered assistance to rebuild the house they had long dreamed of. Mrs. Juniati could not hide her gratitude. “Oh my God, really? Is the house really going to be built? Is Habitat really going to build the house?” she said, moved by the news. 

The construction process began, and it didn’t take long to feel the difference. Now, their home has become a comfortable and safe place to live. Juniati shared that her husband, Indra, is now more enthusiastic about working. “Now, he’s really excited to work. Even when he works far away for months, he says he’s never worried about the house anymore, unlike before when he’d keep calling about the condition of the house,” said Juniati, smiling. 

There’s also a funny story she’ll never forget. “When we first moved into this house, I kept sleeping in because it was so comfortable I’d miss waking up on time,” she laughed. Their lives are now much calmer, and this new home has become a place filled with happiness for their family. 

Not only that, but a week after the house was completed, Indra eagerly built a kitchen for his wife. For them, the house is no longer just a place to live but a place to build dreams together. “A house is a palace for a mother. If you have money and a vehicle, but no house, where will you sleep? So, the house must be taken care of,” said Juniati, full of responsibility. 

Now, Mrs. Juniati can spend more time taking care of her parents, providing them with the comfort in their old age that she had always dreamed of. This new home is the greatest gift for their family, a place to share love, care for their parents, and enjoy days full of happiness. 

The transformation felt by Mrs. Juniati and her family is a tangible testament to the significant impact we can make when we support one another. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia remains committed to providing decent housing for millions of families across Indonesia. Let’s support this effort and be part of the change. Visit habitatindonesia.org/donate

(kh/av) 

Jakarta, May 28, 2025 — Habitat for Humanity Indonesia has officially established a strategic partnership with the Ministry of Housing and Residential Area of the Republic of Indonesia to support the acceleration of the national 3 Million Decent Homes Program. 

The partnership was formalized through the signing of a Cooperation Agreement (PKS) between Dr. Drs. Imran, M.Si., MA.Cd., Director General of Rural Housing at the Ministry, and Handoko Ngadiman, National Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. The signing, held in Jakarta, was also witnessed by Arwin Soelaksono, Program Director of Habitat Indonesia, along with several officials from the Ministry of Housing and Residential Area, marking a joint commitment to addressing housing challenges in Indonesia, especially in rural areas. 

This collaboration is a concrete step to strengthen joint efforts in the development of housing and settlements, with a primary focus on accelerating access to decent housing for low-income communities. Through the synergy between government institutions and civil society organizations like Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, it is hoped that structural and financial barriers in housing provision can be addressed with a more inclusive and sustainable approach. 

“The signing of this agreement marks a significant milestone in our joint efforts to provide new homes and improve the quality of existing housing. This collaboration serves as a solution to address the ongoing housing backlog. We greatly appreciate the support from Habitat for Humanity Indonesia in the 3 Million Homes Program,” said Imran. He also emphasized the importance of cross-sector partnerships to reach communities in remote and rural areas that still face limited access to decent housing. 

Read also: Addressing the Housing Backlog: A Synergy of Government, Communities, and Civil Society Organizations

Meanwhile, Handoko Ngadiman stated that the partnership would be a significant boost for Habitat for Humanity Indonesia in expanding the reach and impact of its programs. “The support from the Ministry of Housing and Residential Area, especially through the Directorate General of Rural Housing, means a great deal to us. This agreement provides a stronger foundation for us to implement various initiatives aligned with the national housing program. We are currently targeting the construction of 500 decent housing units by the end of 2025 and hope to exceed that number to reach 1,000 units. Our main focus is on families in the first and second income deciles, who are among the most vulnerable in terms of access to housing,” he explained. 

Furthermore, the Ministry and Habitat Indonesia are also planning to implement a pilot project in the near future. This project will focus on area-based housing development, which not only provides physical homes but also integrates key aspects such as environmental infrastructure, sanitation, health, and disaster resilience. This holistic approach is expected to create broader and more sustainable impacts while supporting the development of resilient communities. 

This collaboration is expected to not only accelerate the achievement of national housing targets but also strengthen public trust in Habitat for Humanity Indonesia’s efforts to provide safe, healthy, and dignified homes for Indonesian families. Moving forward, such synergies are anticipated to open more opportunities and reach even more families in need of decent housing. 

(kh/av) 

That afternoon, in a village on the northern coast of Tangerang, Tinah (45) was busy watering the plants that decorated her blue house. Her face radiated a smile unlike any seen before—one filled with hope and happiness. The dream she had long carried in prayers and hope had finally come true. A decent home she had always wished for to enjoy her old age and care for her beloved grandchild now stood firmly before her. 

Before the new house arrived, Tinah’s life was full of struggle. The inherited home from her parents, with bamboo walls and a leaky roof, felt extremely limited and uncertain. “I used to sleep in the living room, and my husband slept outside on a bamboo bench. When it rained, water would leak in from the holes in the roof. We tried to endure it, but it was really hard,” recalled Tinah, her eyes welling up as she remembered those difficult times. 

It wasn’t just the rain that threatened them—fear also filled the house. The decaying walls made the house not only prone to leaks but also vulnerable to animals. “One night, a snake got in. My daughter, who was pregnant at the time, was so frightened. We were all panicking,” Tinah said, her voice trembling. The fear didn’t stop there. The house also became a target for crime, with more than two break-in attempts. “More than twice, someone tried to break in when no one was home. I was terrified,” she added, her eyes staring into the distance, as if reliving the anxiety. 

For Tinah and her family, owning a decent home was never easy. Her husband, Sarnadi (45), works as a fisherman laborer catching crabs and harvesting seaweed, earning only about Rp100,000 (USD 6) a day. Tinah also works as a farm laborer, adding Rp50,000 (USD 3) to their daily income. With that limited income, they could only afford basic meals and patch up the damaged house walls. “We couldn’t even think about building a new house. It was already hard enough just to eat. The leftover money was only enough to patch the broken walls,” said Tinah with a tired but resilient expression. 

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

Everything changed when Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, together with IES Jakarta, came to help build new, decent homes for Tinah and 49 other families in Marga Mulya Village, Mauk, Tangerang. “I’m so grateful to Habitat and IES for building us a beautiful home like this,” Tinah said with deep gratitude. 

Now, Tinah feels like her life has changed. “I have a new spirit. My mind is at ease—I no longer worry about leaks or animals entering the house. Now I can just focus on feeding my family and caring for my grandchild,” she said with a bright smile. This home is more than just a shelter—it provides safety, peace of mind, and renewed hope for Tinah and her family. 

Sarnadi can now work more confidently without worrying about the house’s condition, even starting to set aside small savings for the future. “We have a dream—to one day save enough to build a kitchen in the back and a permanent front porch,” Tinah shared with hope in her voice. 

For Tinah, this house is more than just a place to live. It’s a symbol of freedom, a place where her family can grow in safety and comfort. This house has become the foundation for a better future, where dreams and aspirations can flourish. 

The presence of a decent home not only provides physical comfort but also brings stability and independence. It’s a significant transformation with long-term impact for families like Tinah’s, giving them the opportunity to live a better life. 

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia invites you, #SahabatHabitat, to be part of this journey. Help us build more decent homes for millions of families across Indonesia. Visit: www.habitatindonesia.org/donate 

(kh/av)