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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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EN-ID Blog

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.

(kh/av)

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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

(kh/av)

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EN-ID Blog

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. 

(kh/av)

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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.

Read also: Finally, Hundreds of Tanjung Kait Residents Receive Land Certificates

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) 

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EN-ID Blog

Finally, Hundreds of Tanjung Kait Residents Receive Land Certificates

A smile of happiness was evident on Sawinah’s face and the faces of hundreds of residents from Kampung Tanjung Kait, Desa Tanjung Anom, Kecamatan Mauk, Kabupaten Tangerang. After years of waiting for certainty, the long-awaited day finally arrived—the day when their land certificates officially became theirs. All of this was made possible through the close collaboration between Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and Koperasi Mitra Dhuafa (KOMIDA).

Symbolically, the Acting Secretary of Tangerang Regency, Soma Atmaja, handed over the Sale and Purchase Deed (AJB) of land to eight representatives of the residents, witnessed by various local officials, including the Head of Bappeda, Ujang Sudartono, the Head of the Housing and Settlement Area Office, the Head of Mauk Subdistrict, Khalid Mawardi, the Head of Tanjung Anom Village, Asbhihani, and the Program Director of Habitat Indonesia, Arwin Soelaksono. The handover took place at the Tjo Soe Kong Temple in Mauk on December 20, 2024.

Handover of Land Sale and Purchase Deed (AJB) by the Acting Regional Secretary of Tangerang Regency, Soma Atmaja, to the representatives of Kampung Tanjung Kait residents in Mauk – Tangerang Regency (20/12). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

However, receiving the certificate was not just about a piece of paper—it symbolized the first step toward greater change for the residents of Kampung Tanjung Kait. The “Revitalization of Kampung Tanjung Kait” program is a result of collaboration between Habitat Indonesia, the Tangerang Regency Government, Bappeda of Tangerang Regency, donors, partners, and the local community. The program aims to provide decent housing in the form of a cluster, equipped with public facilities to improve the quality of life for the community.

The Tangerang Regency Government welcomed this collaboration, as conveyed by Soma Atmaja, “We will always support programs that involve many parties and benefit the community. We are ready to encourage and facilitate this cooperation to ensure it runs smoothly.”

As part of this program, KOMIDA provided land liberation loans amounting to 20 million rupiah per family for 87 families in Kampung Tanjung Kait. These funds were used to facilitate the land liberation process, which would then become the official property of each family. Once the process was completed, the residents received the AJB as proof of legal land ownership.

This initiative not only resolved the land ownership issue but also paved the way for the creation of safe, comfortable homes for the families in Kampung Tanjung Kait. With decent homes, residents not only gained better living spaces, but also an opportunity to improve their quality of life and support the local economy.

This program is expected to serve as the starting point for the residents of Kampung Tanjung Kait to achieve a more prosperous and hopeful future. With support from various parties, we can all create a better world for them.

(kh/av)

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EN-ID Blog

Improving Public Health in Tangerang Regency: Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and Asuransi Multi Artha Guna Initiate the Construction of Five Toilets in Mauk Subdistrict

Jakarta, January 20, 2025 – PT Asuransi Multi Artha Guna (Asuransi MAG) has partnered with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia in an effort to improve community health in Mauk Subdistrict, Tangerang Regency. This collaboration is realized through the construction of five decent and hygienic family toilet facilities as part of a solution to address public health challenges in the area.

The construction of these toilet facilities also involved employees of Asuransi MAG, who actively participated in the construction process on November 30, 2024. This participation not only demonstrates the company’s commitment to social responsibility but also strengthens the bond between Asuransi MAG, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, and the local community.

“We believe that access to proper sanitation facilities is a basic need that must be fulfilled. Therefore, we are very enthusiastic about being involved in this program, which aligns with our company’s vision to positively impact the community,” said Pankaj Oberoi, President Director of Asuransi MAG, while directly participating in the construction of the community toilets.

Abraham Tulung, General Manager of Resource Development at Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, expressed his gratitude for Asuransi MAG’s contribution. “We are deeply grateful for the support and collaboration provided by Asuransi MAG. Together, we can help the people of Mauk Subdistrict gain access to proper sanitation facilities and improve their health. This is a tangible example of the spirit of mutual cooperation to significantly enhance public health and provide decent homes.”

One of the beneficiaries of the 5-unit toilet construction program, a collaboration between Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and Asuransi MAG, is cleaning the floor in Mauk, Tangerang Regency (10/1). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

Read also: Beyond Borders: POSCO and Habitat for Humanity Collaborate to Build a Better Future

This program has had a direct impact on the beneficiary families, including the family of Mrs. Sofiyah. With heartfelt emotion, she shared her experience after receiving this assistance: “Thank you to Habitat and Asuransi MAG for helping our family. We have long dreamed of having our own private toilet at home, but it was beyond our financial reach. Often, we felt embarrassed having to use the toilet at a relative’s or parent’s house every day. Alhamdulillah, now we no longer have to rely on others. Especially at night, it used to be so inconvenient. Once again, we can only express our deepest gratitude,” said Mrs. Sofiyah.

With the completion of the five family toilet facilities, it is hoped that the people of Mauk Subdistrict will enjoy a better quality of life and a healthier environment. This collaboration represents a concrete step by Asuransi MAG toward realizing a shared vision of creating sustainable change by providing access to proper sanitation. With support from various parties, Asuransi MAG is committed to expanding the positive impact felt by communities through sustainable programs.

About PT Asuransi Multi Artha Guna

PT Asuransi Multi Artha Guna (MAG) is a general insurance company focused on providing protection solutions for individuals and businesses in Indonesia. With over 30 years of experience, PT Asuransi MAG is also active in various corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs aimed at improving the quality of life and creating positive impacts through strong partnerships.

(ss/av)

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EN-ID Blog

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

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

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

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

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

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

Neneng carries her daughter in the yard of her decent home built by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia (3/1). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

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

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

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

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

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

Neneng and her daughter on the porch of their decent home built by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia (3/1). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

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

(kh/av)

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EN-ID Blog

Beyond Borders: POSCO and Habitat for Humanity Collaborate to Build a Better Future 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

President Director of PT KRAKATAU POSCO, Mr. Jang Bum-Su, symbolically handed over a decent home to one of the beneficiaries in Cilegon (16/01). Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

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

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

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

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

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

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