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Partnering with Habitat, Amazon Web Services Inaugurates Think Big Space 

Pemotongan pita peresmian Think Big Space (TBS) di SMKN 1 Karawang (26/10). Foto: HFHI/Budi Aryanto

Karawang, October 24, 2024 – Amazon Web Services (AWS), in partnership with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, inaugurates Think Big Space (TBS) at SMK Negeri 1 Karawang. 

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was conducted by the Acting Governor of West Java, Mr. Bey Machmudin, Acting Regent of Karawang, Mr. Teppy Wawan Dharmawan, Acting Head of the West Java Provincial Education Office, Mr. Bambang Tirtoyuliono, AWS Country Manager for Data Center Indonesia, Mr. Winu Adiarto, and Chief Financial Officer Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, Mr. Christian Khorigin on Thursday, October 26, 2024. 

With Habitat for Humanity Indonesia as NGO partner, AWS created a digital learning space equipped with a range of modern facilities, including STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) devices, 18 computers with free access to AWS Skill Builder as an online learning hub, Amazon Echo devices, a podcast studio, a 3D printer, and a Virtual Reality set. 

AWS Think Big Space are designed to create innovative learning environments that go beyond traditional classrooms, empowering students to develop STEAM skills and explore innovation through hands-on, real-world problem-solving experiences  

In his remarks, Mr. Winu Adiarto noted that TBS at SMKN 1 Karawang is the first of its kind in Indonesia and Southeast Asia, with the goal of broadening students’ knowledge in technology while equipping them with relevant digital skills. “This TBS is a dedicated space for students, educators, and the community to explore ideas in STEAM through technical education and interactive cloud computing training,” said Mr. Winu Adiarto. 

The Think Big Space at SMKN 1 Karawang will host various STEAM training sessions, including programming, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and automation, aimed at students in grades 10 through 12. Additionally, AWS will use this space as a training center for programs such as Skilled in the Cloud, which offers cloud training, digital workshops, and coding classes. 

Kunjungan Pj Gubernur Jawa Barat, Bey Machmudin, melihat fasilitas Think Big Space (TBS) di SMKN 1 Karawang (26/10). Foto: Humas Pemprov Jabar

The Acting Governor of West Java, Mr. Bey Machmudin, praised the initiative as a solution to the challenge of aligning education with industry needs. “We believe in the power of education and technology to unlock human potential. With the TBS, we are better prepared to empower students in West Java and across Indonesia for a digital future,” he said. 

Mr. Winu Adiarto added that TBS would expand beyond schools into public facilities, based on community needs. “This Think Big Space aims to build technical capabilities in our youth, especially considering that 70 percent of Indonesia’s population is between 14 and 47 years old. This is a huge potential that must be positively harnessed,” he said. 

Through this initiative, AWS and Habitat for Humanity Indonesia hope that vocational schools in West Java will continue to innovate, produce graduates ready to compete in the global market, and serve as catalysts for industrial and economic progress in Indonesia. 

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Commemorating Youth Pledge Day, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia Launches 28UILD 2024 to Inspire Youth Action for a Better Indonesia

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia mobilized over 700 volunteers to build 71 new homes for low-income families and plant more than 450 trees in Tangerang, Gresik, and Batam in a community and environment initiative. 

Jakarta, October 26, 2024 – To celebrate Youth Pledge Day, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia has once again organized 28UILD 2024, an impactful volunteer event engaging young Indonesians in building decent housing for families in need. 

This year, more than 700 volunteers simultaneously worked in three cities—Tangerang, Gresik, and Batam on October 26, 2024—dedicated to building and painting safe homes for those in need. For the first time, the volunteers also participated in tree planting to promote environmental sustainability. Across these cities, a total of 71 new homes were built, and over 450 trees were planted. 

Since its start in 2012, 28UILD has been held 11 times, engaging over 5,700 volunteers from various cities in Indonesia. This year’s event was further enriched by the support of inspiring public figures, such as Daniel Mananta, Joanna Alexandra, Nadia Tjoa, Han Chandra, Nathan Khubani, and Kurnia Hidayat, who joined in building homes and voicing the importance of environmental action. 

“We aim to demonstrate the significant role youth play in building socially and environmentally sustainable Indonesia, both socially and environmentally,” said Handoko Ngadiman, National Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. “Through 28UILD, we create positive change together—not only by building homes but also by protecting our environment. The young generation is a vital pillar in shaping a better future.” 

Daniel Mananta, a well-known Indonesian actor and host who has supported this movement for years, shared his experience: “I’m very grateful to be invited back every year to join Habitat in the 28UILD event. Every year, I meet new families whose homes we’re able to transform for them. I am deeply motivated to see the significant impact we can make on the lives of these families. From homes that were previously uninhabitable, now they have a safer, healthier place to live.” 

Beyond building homes, Daniel emphasized that this event is a collective effort to foster renewed hope. “With safer homes, these children can dream bigger than their parents may have imagined.” 

In recent years, more young Indonesians are also getting involved in social initiatives. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia offers a platform for them through the Habitat Young Star program—a space where youth can create and innovate projects that bring positive change to their communities. This year, two young participants, Denzel Setiawan and Kirana Ratomo, brought their ideas to life by building a playground for local children. 

Sharing her inspiration, Kirana Ratomo used repurposed tires to build play structures and painted vibrant murals on the playground walls. “I wanted to create a safe, fun space for kids and show that with a bit of creativity, waste materials can become something useful and beautiful,” said Kirana. 

Denzel Setiawan also contributed by transforming seashell waste from Mauk, Tangerang Regency, into mortar for building material.This mortar was used in a pilot project to renovate a badminton court in Marga Mulya, creating a new space for local residents. “I’m thrilled to be part of 28UILD by turning seashell waste into something valuable—mortar for building material. It shows that what’s seen as trash can actually be part of a solution,” said Denzel. 

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia hopes 28UILD will continue to inspire young Indonesians to unite in service and solidarity. Looking ahead, they hope to see even more youth join in social initiatives like this. With a spirit of cooperation and direct action, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia believes the young generation can help build a more independent, prosperous, and sustainable Indonesia.

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Carving a Path to Success for Construction Workers and Competitive Opportunities in the Job Market

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany, has initiated Work Competency Certification (SKK) and Occupational Health and Safety (K3) training for 600 construction workers in Banten Province. 

Sejumlah peserta pelatihan SKK & K3 yang diselenggarakan Habitat for Humanity Indonesia bersama Pemerintah Jerman menerima sertifikat komptensi kerja di Mauk, Kabupaten Tangerang (11/7). Foto: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

For over 30 years working as a construction worker, Sugiyono, a man from Ketapang Village, Mauk District, Tangerang Regency, never imagined he would obtain an official certificate recognizing his skills. 

His hands, which had mostly been used to lay bricks and mix cement, now hold a certificate— a testament to his skills. 

“Having worked as a construction worker for over 30 years, this is the first time I’ve had a certificate that officially recognizes my skills,” Sugiyono said when met after participating in the Wall Installation Competency Unit training. 

Meanwhile, Muflikan, a worker from Marga Mulya Village who also participated in the training, expressed similar joy. 

“Finally, I have official certification. I’ve been waiting for this moment after twenty-five years of working in construction. It’s different now—it becomes quite hard for me to find work. Every time I apply to foremen, contractors, or even directly to homeowners, they always ask if I have a certificate or not,” he said. 

This situation is not only felt by Sugiyono and Muflikan. In the rapidly developing construction industry, the demand for work competency certification is increasingly high. Of the 8.3 million construction workers in Indonesia, only 7.4% (or around 616,000) have certificates (BPS, 2018). This number is far from sufficient to meet the industry standards that increasingly require formal credentials amid tight competition. 

600 Certified Construction Workers 

Seeing this gap, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, together with the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany, initiated a training program for Work Competency Certification (SKK) and Occupational Health and Safety (K3). 

Kegiatan Pelatihan SKK & K3 untuk 600 tenaga konstruksi yang diselenggarakan Habitat for Humanity Indonesia dan Pemerintah Jerman di Kosambi, Kabupaten Tangerang (3/10). Foto: HFHI/Radhitya Yoga

This training aims to help construction workers like Sugiyono and Muflikan obtain nationally recognized official certificates. The training was held at the Cipondoh Labor Training Center in Tangerang City and the Kosambi Labor Training Center in Tangerang Regency, targeting over 600 construction workers. 

The program is divided into three training phases. The first phase included 210 workers, held from September 20-30, 2023, followed by 240 workers in the second phase scheduled for March 20-30, 2024, and 150 workers in the third phase that just took place from October 3-12, 2024. 

During the 10-day training, participants were equipped with practical and technical knowledge according to various competency units. Starting from the Pipe Competency Unit, Lightweight Steel Roof, Paint, Tile Installation, Ceramic, Marble, Terrazzo, to Wall Installation, all training was adjusted to the Indonesian National Work Competency Standards (SKKNI) for the Construction Sector. 

Sejumlah peserta mengikuti kelas unit kompetensi pasang dinding dalam Pelatihan SKK & K3 yang diselenggarakan Habitat for Humanity Indonesia dan Pemerintah Jerman di Kosambi, Kabupaten Tangerang (4/10). Foto: HFHI/Radhitya Yoga

For Abdul Aziz, a worker participating in the Paint Competency Unit, this experience brings a breath of fresh air. “I learned a lot of new knowledge. I was taught better and more efficient practices. Not only that, but in the end, I could obtain a certificate that I can present when applying for jobs later,” Abdul said. 

During the training, participants not only received technical training but were also assessed by assessors from the National Professional Certification Agency (BNSP) on the last day. These assessors evaluated the eligibility of participants for obtaining certificates based on the applicable standards. 

One assessor, Bambang, stated that this program significantly impacts workers. “Certification is very important because workers also need to have official proof that recognizes their skills. From my observations, participants appeared more confident after participating in this program,” Bambang said. 

Sejumlah peserta mengikuti kelas unit kompetensi pasang ubin, keramik, marmer & teraso dalam Pelatihan SKK & K3 yang diselenggarakan Habitat for Humanity Indonesia dan Pemerintah Jerman di Kosambi, Kabupaten Tangerang (4/10). Foto: HFHI/Budi Aryanto

Tirta Mustika Ratih, Head of the Construction Service Guidance Team for Settlement Areas at the Housing, Settlements, and Land Office of Tangerang City, also emphasized the importance of this certificate. “This certificate is a mandate of the law. The government has an obligation to ensure that all construction workers have certificates. This certificate gives them permission to work and is valid for the next five years,” Tirta explained. 

With certificates in hand, many participants feel more confident facing challenges in the workforce. Ali Anwar, a worker in the Lightweight Steel Roof Competency Unit, admitted that this certification gives him new hope. “Now I feel more confident and ready to find better work. This certificate is a significant asset to convince potential employers,” Ali said. 

Salah satu peserta berfoto bersama sertifikat miliknya setelah mengikut Pelatihan SKK & K3 yang diselenggarakan Habitat for Humanity Indonesia dan Pemerintah Jerman di Mauk, Kabupaten Tangerang (11/7). Foto: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

Multilateral Support 

This program certainly benefits from the support of several parties, such as PT Mowilex Indonesia, PT Wavin Indonesia, PT Tata Metal Lestari, PT Tatalogam Lestari, PT Mortar Utama (Saint-Gobain), and PT Etex Building Performance Indonesia. Their support in the form of financial aid, materials, and trainers enabled the smooth execution of this program. 

The collaboration between Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, the German government, Habitat for Humanity Germany and these companies is not just an effort to enhance workforce capacity but also a part of a shared commitment to improve the quality of life for communities. 

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, which has long been known for its program to build decent housing, is now expanding its impact by helping construction workers gain the recognition they deserve. 

Through this program, Sugiyono, Muflikan, and hundreds of other workers now have better opportunities to compete in the job market, secure more decent employment, and improve their families’ welfare. “This is not just about obtaining a certificate; it’s about a brighter future for all of us,” concluded Sugiyono. 

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Unang’s Story: Ensuring Safety and Comfort in a Decent Home 

At exactly 5 p.m., as the sun began to fade, Unang (47) returned to his home after a long day of work as a security guard at a recreational site in Babakan Madang, Bogor Regency. 

However, this time, his return felt different from before. There was a warmth surrounding him, something he had never felt before. 

Potret Unang berdiri di depan pintu rumahnya yang telah layak huni di Babakan Madang, Kabupaten Bogor (4/10). Foto: HFHI/ Kevin Herbian

Back then, Unang, his wife Aros (47), and their three children lived surrounded by bamboo walls that had rotted with age. Every corner of their home held sorrow: a leaking roof and muddy floors every time heavy rain fell. 

They often shared their home with termites, rats, and even snakes that would sneak into the house. 

“My earnings were always spent on fixing the house—patching the roof, replacing bamboo walls. These were regular monthly expenses,” Unang recalled. 

Kondisi rumah tak layak huni milik Unang saat sebelum direnovasi oleh Habitat for Humanity Indonesia di Babakan Madang, Kabupaten Bogor. Foto: HFHI/ Muhammad Farhan

“My wife would always say, ‘How can we ever build a proper house?’ I was confused when she asked because I couldn’t do anything about it. My salary was just enough for daily needs,” added Unang. 

Every night, Unang was filled with anxiety. His home, meant to be a place of rest after a long day, became a source of worry. This burden weighed heavily on him, seemingly without end – until hope arrived unexpectedly. 

Read also: The Meaning of Heaven for Sudjadi’s Family

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia brought a major transformation to Unang and his family’s life. A compassionate initiative that not only built a house but also restored hope. 

“I was speechless when I first saw the house. I couldn’t say anything; I could only feel grateful,” Unang said. 

Now, Unang no longer has to worry about a leaking roof or decaying walls. He can now save his earnings for more important things—building a kitchen, saving for his children’s future, and even thinking about their education all the way to college. 

“A house is life for me; it’s where everything begins,” Unang concluded. 

Unang saat berada di dalam rumah layak huni miliknya yang telah di renovasi oleh Habitat for Humanity Indonesia di Babakan Madang, Kabupaten Bogor (4/10). Foto: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

You can help make a difference for families like Unang’s. Your support can help build more homes and provide safe, decent shelter for those in need. Visit www.habitatindonesia.org/donate to donate and be part of our mission to create a better life. 

(kh/av) 

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

Yogyakarta, October 12, 2024 – Habitat for Humanity Indonesia was recognized for its outstanding contributions to housing development in Indonesia, receiving a prestigious award from the Ministry of Public Works and Housing (PUPR) during the World Habitat Day and World Cities Day celebration at Gadjah Mada University, Yogyakarta.

The award was presented by the Director General of Housing at the Ministry of PUPR, Mr. Iwan Suprijanto, to Habitat for Humanity Indonesia’s Project Coordinator, Mr. Herawan Surandriyo, and witnessed by the Minister of PUPR, Mr. Basuki Hadimuljono.

This recognition serves as appreciation for the significant role of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia as a government partner in housing development. The organization’s unwavering dedication to providing decent and affordable housing has positively impacted the lives of hundreds of thousand of families across the country.

“On this occasion, the Ministry of Public Works and Housing extends its gratitude to our partners who have helped realize decent and sustainable housing. We sincerely thank you and hope that this collaboration will continue to grow stronger and better in the future,” said Iwan Suprijanto.

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia terima penghargaan dari Kementerian Pekerjaan Umum dan Perumahan Rakyat (PUPR) dalam acara puncak Hari Habitat Dunia dan Hari Kota Dunia di Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta (12/10). Foto: KemenPUPR

Read also: Habitat for Humanity Indonesia Receives the 2024 TJSLP Award from Karawang Regency

For over 27 years, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia has played an active role in assisting the government in reducing the number of families living in substandard housing.

By constructing more than 39,000 decent homes across Indonesia, Habitat Indonesia has significantly contributed to improving the quality of life for over 206.000 people.

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia also expressed deep gratitude to donors, volunteers, and partners who have supported the organization’s mission. Habitat Indonesia remains committed to its vision of a world where every family has the right to a decent place to live.

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

Gunungkidul, September 23, 2024 – Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, along with other stakeholders, kicked off a collaborative initiative with the theme “GUMREGAH TENAN” (Movement to Build Healthy, Productive Homes through Integrated and Collaborative Actions) in Gunungkidul Regency on Monday, September 23, 2024.

This initiative is driven by the Indonesian government’s commitment to tackling extreme poverty and improving community welfare, especially in housing and settlement areas. The kick-off event marks the initial step toward creating synergy among institutions to develop decent, resilient, and sustainable housing areas.

The “GUMREGAH TENAN” program was initiated in response to the ongoing challenges in handling housing and settlement issues, which are often sectoral and sporadic. Housing issues are complex and require a holistic approach that integrates and collaborates with various parties.

Through this program, the aim is to create housing areas that not only meet the basic needs of the community but also improve the quality of life and empower the local economy. The program includes key initiatives such as:

  • Housing, Building affordable and decent homes.
  • Sanitation, Providing adequate sanitation facilities.
  • Clean Water, Increasing access to clean water.
  • Health, Supporting improved healthcare facilities.

As a non-profit organization focused on providing decent housing for low-income communities, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia recognizes the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration.

The “GUMREGAH TENAN” collaboration involves the participation of various governmental bodies, including the Central Government (represented by the Housing Provision Implementation Agency of Central Java III, Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing), local government of D.I. Yogyakarta (Paniradya Kaistimewaan, DPUPESDM DIY), Gunungkidul Regency government (Bappeda, DPUPRKP, DINSOS, DPMKP2KB), academia (Universitas Widya Mataram, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Universitas Teknologi Yogyakarta, Universitas Islam Indonesia, and Universitas Gunungkidul), and Habitat for Humanity Indonesia representing NGOs.

Kick-off kolaborasi multipihak “GUMREGAH TENAN” (Gerakan Untuk Membangun Rumah Sehat, Berdaya Guna Secara Terintegrasi dan Kolaboratif Melalui Aksi Nyata)” di Kabupaten Gunungkidul (23/9). Foto: Dok Istimewa

In this program, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia plays an active role in designing and implementing comprehensive and sustainable development programs in collaboration with various partners. The planned developments include:

  1. Building five decent homes, 30 family toilets, and one posyandu (community health center) in Kalurahan Kedungkeris, Nglipar. Additionally, the program offers training on Building Safe Homes, Promoting Clean and Healthy Living Habits, and Strengthening Posyandu cadres and community awareness.
  2. Constructing four climate-adaptive model homes and providing clean water facilities for 200 household connections in Kalurahan Wunung, Wonosari, along with water management training and training on Building Safe Homes.
  3. Allocating complementary funding through the BSPS Program for building 109 homes, spread across three districts (Nglipar, Playen, and Patuk) in Gunungkidul Regency.

This development plan is meticulously designed to contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Specifically, it addresses key goals such as poverty eradication, improving health and well-being, providing access to clean water and proper sanitation, reducing social inequality, and strengthening partnerships to achieve common goals. With a focus on these aspects, the plan aims to make a significant positive impact on families in Indonesia.

Achieving the SDGs will help improve the quality of life for families, reduce expenses for basic needs, and create a healthier, more productive environment.

Handoko Ngadiman, National Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, stated, “With a spirit of mutual cooperation, we are embarking on a new chapter in housing development in Gunungkidul. The ‘GUMREGAH TENAN’ collaboration is solid proof that by working together, we can create significant change for the community. This is not just about building homes; it’s about strengthening families and building a brighter future for the next generation.”

With the launch of the “GUMREGAH TENAN” program, it is set to make a significant impact on the lives of the people in Gunungkidul. Through this collaborative effort, the region is expected to become a model for sustainable and inclusive development.

(av/kh)

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Habitat for Humanity Indonesia Receives the 2024 TJSLP Award from Karawang Regency

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia receives 2024 Corporate Social and Environmental Responsibility (TJSLP) Award from Karawang Regency Government. 

The award was directly presented by the Head of the Regional Development Planning Agency (Bappeda) of Karawang Regency, Mr. Ridwan Salam, to Habitat Indonesia’s General Manager of Resource Development, Mr. Abraham Tulung, at the Mercure Hotel, Karawang Regency, on September 19, 2024. 

This recognition is part of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia’s role as a facilitator in efforts to build and improve the welfare of the people of Karawang Regency. 

For more than two decades, Habitat Indonesia has supported the local government in improving the quality of life for the community, particularly through the construction of decent housing and supporting facilities. 

From the early 2000s to 2014, Habitat Indonesia partnered with various programs to build 2,000 clean water connections across five villages in the Teluk Jambe Barat District. 

Habitat Indonesia also responded to the flash floods that struck Teluk Village, Batujaya District, by building decent houses, school facilities, and providing clean water access during the 2013-2015 period. 

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia raih Penghargaan TJSLP Kabupaten Karawang tahun 2024 di Hotel Mercure, Kabupaten Karawang (19/9). Foto: BAPPEDA Kabupaten Karawang

Habitat Indonesia’s commitment continues by collaborating with various donors, such as APP Sinarmas, Pertamina, Samsung C&T, AWS InCommunities, LG, and DCI. 

Together with its partners, Habitat Indonesia strives to provide decent housing, improve school facilities, and enhance access to clean water and sanitation in the Ciampel District, Cikalong Kulon District, and Teluk Jambe Barat District. These programs have been implemented gradually and alternately since 2014 until the present. 

The Regent of Karawang, H. Aep Syaepuloh, expressed his appreciation for the ongoing collaboration. “I would like to extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to all the organizations and companies for their support. May this collaboration continue to be well-maintained for the advancement of Karawang Regency,” said Regent Aep Syaepuloh in his speech. 

Through this achievement, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia further strengthens its commitment to continue supporting the community in achieving a better and more dignified life for the local population. 

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The Collaborative Action of Arthawena Volunteers in Building Decent Homes

Ainun dan Ramadan, karyawan PT Arthawenasakti Gemilang berpartisipasi dalam kegiatan volunteer “Arthawena Build” di Desa Sooko, Gresik (14/9). Foto: HFHI/Budi Ariyanto

Under a tree, the sunlight pierced Ainun’s face as she struggled with the iron wire in her hands. This wasn’t a typical day for her. As an employee of PT Arthawenasakti Gemilang, Ainun was used to sitting in front of a computer finishing her tasks. But that day, she traded the comfort of her office for the dust at the construction site of a decent home in Ngemplak Hamlet, Sooko Village, Wringinanom Subdistrict, Gresik Regency (14/9).

With unfamiliar movements, she tried to tie the house’s foundation iron, but small mistakes often happened. “Is this your first time working as a laborer?” teased Ramadan, her colleague, who was also participating in the volunteer activity. “Yeah, these hands are usually only used for typing,” Ainun replied jokingly.

Karyawan PT Arthawenasakti Gemilang memasang dinding rumah layak huni dalam kegiatan volunteer “Arthawena Build” di Desa Sooko, Gresik (14/9). Foto: HFHI/Budi Ariyanto

In another area, Arief was busy stacking bricks for the house wall with his colleagues. Every time he lifted a brick, fatigue swept through his body, but a sense of pride filled his heart. “This is my first experience. Even though it’s tiring, it feels amazing to be able to help those in need,” he said with a satisfied smile.

Karyawan PT Arthawenasakti Gemilang berhenti sejenak di sela aktivitasnya membangun rumah layak huni dalam kegiatan volunteer “Arthawena Build” di Desa Sooko, Gresik (14/9). Foto: HFHI/Budi Ariyanto

That day wasn’t just an ordinary activity. A total of 100 employees from PT Arthawenasakti Gemilang gathered in a spirit of togetherness to directly participate in building 10 decent housing units under the “Arthawena Build” program. Initiated by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, this program aims to bring new hope to hundreds of families living in deprivation in Sooko Village.

For hundreds of families there, owning a decent home is not easy. Most of them work as farm laborers or construction workers, earning just enough to meet daily needs. Their dream of a proper home often seems like a distant goal. But that day, their dream became reality.

Karyawan PT Arthawenasakti Gemilang memotong bata dinding rumah layak huni dalam kegiatan volunteer “Arthawena Build” di Desa Sooko, Gresik (14/9). Foto: HFHI/Budi Ariyanto

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and PT Arthawenasakti Gemilang are committed to building 100 decent homes in Sooko Village, Wringinanom Subdistrict, and Lundo Village, Benjeg Subdistrict, over the next two years, from 2024 to 2025. This program is not only about building houses but also about creating a better future for the families who need it the most.

“This is not the first time we’ve participated,” said Hendro Hananto Putro, Marketing Manager of PT Arthawenasakti Gemilang, who also joined the on-site activities with other board members. “We have built 80 houses in 2023, and this time we want to continue our contribution. This activity is a way to encourage our employees to contribute, not only for the company but also for the community,” he added.

Hendro was not alone. His colleagues, such as Candra Suwikatono, Production A3/A5 Manager, Sylphia Hardjanti, CSI Manager, Arief Widyastono Lukas, Sr. Head of Production – PPC, and Siswanto, Head of HRD/GA, also participated in the construction process from start to finish. From laying the foundation to placing the final bricks, they all worked with the same spirit—the spirit of making a meaningful contribution.

“This activity is part of our effort to increase employee awareness of social issues,” Hendro continued. “Every effort, no matter how small, can have a significant impact. We hope that through this activity, our employees will become more involved in social activities.”

Foto bersama karyawan PT Arthawenasakti Gemilang dengan pemilik rumah dalam kegiatan volunteer “Arthawena Build” di Desa Sooko, Gresik (14/9). Foto: HFHI/Budi Ariyanto

By midday, the exhaustion was visible on the volunteers’ faces, but their enthusiasm never wavered. They knew that what they were doing wasn’t just physical work; it was an effort to build better lives for others. For Ainun, Arief, and the other employees, this experience left not only tiredness but also unforgettable memories—a sense of pride from being part of new hopes built with their own hands.

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The Meaning of Heaven for Sudjadi’s Family

Sudjadi (52) has spent over twenty years living in Kampung Bebulak, Desa Margamulya, Mauk Subdistrict, Tangerang Regency. As a day laborer, his life has been far from easy. Every day, he battles exhaustion, striving to provide for his family, even though his income often falls short.

His wife, Hayati (49), a housewife, shares life’s burdens with her husband, especially when they had to live in a house that was on the verge of collapse. “That old house was about to fall apart; it often got hit by falling coconuts. My grandkids were scared,” Sudjadi recalled, reflecting on the past. 

Potret Sudjadi dan Hayati berdiri di depan halaman rumahnya saat sebelum direnovasi di Mauk, Tangerang. Foto: HFHI/Indah

For many, rain is a blessing, but for Sudjadi’s family, it was a threat. “The saddest part is when it rained. I had to wake the kids up to grab buckets and bowls to catch the leaking water… byuurrr, the water would fall,” Sudjadi added. 

The roof of their house was made of palm leaves patched with plastic, a makeshift solution to stop the rain from seeping through. The bamboo walls, already rotting, had become a haven for rats, cockroaches, and worms. Their filth not only dirtied the house but also spread diseases that frequently afflicted the family members. 

A New Hope 

Amid hardship, a glimmer of hope appeared. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, along with donors and volunteers, came to rebuild Sudjadi’s house. What was once a crumbling home now stands firm, a symbol of renewal for Sudjadi’s small family.

Potret Sudjadi dan Hayati berdiri di depan halaman rumahnya saat setelah direnovasi di Mauk, Tangerang. Foto: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

“It feels like a dream. I’m so grateful to have a nice house like this. Words can’t express it,” Sudjadi said, overcome with gratitude. 

This new home provides not only a safe shelter from the rain and sun but also brings better health. “No more itching now. The kids rarely get sick anymore. They love staying home and studying; they say it’s so comfortable,” he added. 

A Small Paradise for Sudjadi and His Family 

Now, the house is a place where Sudjadi and Hayati can spend time with their grandchildren in peace. No longer do they live in fear of leaking roofs or crumbling walls.

Sudjadi dan keluarga menunjukkan koleksi foto di rumahnya yang telah layak huni di Mauk, Kabupaten Tangerang. Foto: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

For Sudjadi, this house is a small paradise, offering warmth and happiness that once seemed out of reach. Sudjadi and his family can now face their days with smiles, unburdened by worries, thanks to a home that provides not just shelter, but an opportunity for a better, happier life. 

Sudjadi’s story is just one of many about hope and change made possible through real action. You too can be part of this transformation by visiting www.habitatindonesia.org/donate

(kh/av)

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EN-ID Blog

Improve Healthcare Services, Habitat Partners with PT Lautan Luas Tbk to Renovate 4 Posyandu 

In an effort to improve public health, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia has partnered with PT Lautan Luas Tbk to renovate four community health posts (posyandu) in Kelurahan Palmerah, Palmerah Sub-district, West Jakarta. The renovations aim to provide better healthcare services for mothers and children while supporting efforts to reduce stunting rates in the area. 

The official handover of the renovated posyandu facilities was marked by a symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony at the four locations, attended by Palmerah Sub-district Head Zaenal Ngaripin, PT Lautan Luas Tbk’s Investor Relations, Corporate Communication & Sustainability Manager Eurike Hadijaya, Office & Asset Management Manager Tri Haryanti, and Habitat Indonesia’s General Manager of Resource Development Abraham Tulung, on September 3, 2024. 

Lurah Palmerah, Zaenal Ngaripin, bersama Investor Relations, Corporate Communication & Sustainability Manager PT Lautan Luas Tbk, Eurike Hadijaya, dan General Manager Resource Development Habitat Indonesia, Abraham Tulung, mengunjungi Posyandu Matahari 2 di Palmerah, Jakarta Barat (3/9). Foto: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

The four posyandu that benefited from the renovation include Posyandu Kenanga in RT 04/06, Posyandu Matahari 2 in RT 15/18, Posyandu Mutiara in RW 11, and Posyandu Katalia 1 in RT 06/13. Renovations covered infrastructure improvements and the provision of health equipment such as tables, chairs, scales, and thermometers. With enhanced facilities, the posyandu are expected to operate more efficiently and provide more effective services to the community. 

Palmerah Sub-district Head Zaenal Ngaripin expressed his appreciation, stating, “On behalf of the residents, I warmly welcome the support from Habitat Indonesia and PT Lautan Luas Tbk in renovating the posyandu in Palmerah. The role of posyandu is vital in our efforts to reduce stunting. I hope that with these improved facilities, we can be more effective in reducing and preventing stunting in our community.” 

Eurike Hadijaya, Investor Relations, Corporate Communication & Sustainability Manager at PT Lautan Luas Tbk, added that this initiative is part of the company’s CSR commitment to making a positive impact on the surrounding environment. “This is the first time we are focusing on improving posyandu facilities, after previously collaborating with Habitat Indonesia on building decent homes. We hope this support will make a real contribution to public health, especially in the fight against stunting.” 

Peresmian renovasi empat posyandu program kerja sama Habitat Indonesia dengan PT Lautan Luas Tbk di Palmerah, Jakarta Barat (3/9). Foto: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

The renovation program, which began in early July, has not only transformed the posyandu facilities but also boosted the morale of the posyandu staff, motivating them to serve the community more effectively. With the upgraded facilities, they are expected to work more optimally in supporting maternal and child health in Palmerah. 

Through this partnership, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and PT Lautan Luas Tbk continue to strengthen their commitment to empowering communities by improving public facilities, aiming to create a better quality of life for all.

(kh/av)