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. 

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. 

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. 

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)

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. 

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. 

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) 

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.

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)

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.”

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)

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. 

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. 

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)

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 

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. 

(ss/av)

Tangerang, November 30, 2024 – IES Jakarta has once again demonstrated its strong commitment to supporting the vision of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia: ensuring that every family has a decent, safe, and comfortable place to live. 

After successfully helping 20 low-income families secure decent housing during the 2023–2024 period, IES Jakarta has now begun the construction of 20 new homes in Marga Mulya Village, Mauk District, Tangerang—a village filled with hope for a better future. 

This significant initiative was marked by the extraordinary enthusiasm of 60 IES Jakarta volunteers. Through a volunteering activity titled “Building Hearts,” held on November 30, 2024, the volunteers worked hand in hand to lay the foundations for the new homes. Under the scorching sun, their laughter and hard work became a tangible symbol of care and compassion for others. 

The beneficiary families of this program are those who struggle daily with limited economic conditions. Most work as fishermen, day laborers, or small-scale farmers. The homes they currently live in are often inherited from their parents—old, deteriorating structures worn out by time. Cracked and damaged walls, leaky roofs, and cramped spaces have become part of their everyday lives. However, hope has arrived, bringing the promise of a better future. 

Read also: Carrying On the Legacy of Kindness: Raden Hapsoro’s Journey

Rachel Feather, one of the volunteers participating in the activity, shared her thoughts. “I believe what we’re doing here is not just about building houses but also creating a safe space for children to grow and thrive. A home is where dreams begin, and I’m proud to be part of their big dreams,” she said. 

This spirit was also echoed by Joko, the head of Marga Mulya Village, who expressed his gratitude. “I deeply appreciate and thank IES Jakarta for supporting our residents for the second time. This assistance is not just about building houses but also about building a future for our generation,” he said. 

Through this program, IES Jakarta and Habitat for Humanity Indonesia are not only providing sturdy walls or strong roofs. They are bringing hope, dignity, and security to the families of Marga Mulya Village. With this support, these families now have a foundation that goes beyond materials—a foundation for a better future. 

The construction of 20 homes is expected to be completed within the next year. However, this journey requires prayers and support from everyone, including you, #SahabatHabitat. May this initiative inspire more people to join in building a world where every family has the right to a decent home. 

(kh/av) 

Jakarta, November 2, 2024 – Habitat for Humanity Indonesia is delighted to announce that two incredible Hole-in-One shots at the BNI Indonesian Masters 2024 have resulted in the donation of three homes for Indonesian families in need. 

Renowned golfer Bubba Watson made a splash at the tournament with a perfect shot on the 154-yard par-3 11th hole using a pitching wedge. Inspired by this phenomenal achievement, Watson generously donated an additional house to an Indonesian family through Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, bringing the total to two homes. 

Shortly after Bubba’s historic shot, Phachara Khongwatmai also made waves by acing the 11th hole with a 48-degree wedge. This second Hole-in-One further amplified the charitable impact, resulting in another house being donated to an Indonesian family in need. 

Earlier, the golfers participating in the BNI Indonesian Masters 2024 also took part in The Keepie Uppie Challenge. In this challenge, 16 golfers successfully juggled a ball, raising a total donation of IDR 80,000,000 (IDR 5 million for each pass). 

Read also: Carrying On the Legacy of Kindness: Raden Hapsoro’s Journey

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, which served as the charity partner for this prestigious event, played an active role in raising funds to support the construction of decent homes for low-income families. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia expresses its gratitude for the incredible opportunity to be part of this tournament. 

“Habitat for Humanity Indonesia extends our deepest thanks to Bubba Watson and Phachara Khongwatmai for their remarkable Hole-in-One achievement at the BNI Indonesian Masters 2024. This achievement is more than just a historic milestone in the world of golf; it is a powerful blessing that will have a direct impact on the lives of low-income families in Indonesia. We also express our heartfelt thanks to the BNI Indonesian Masters 2024 for their unwavering support. This partnership will help us build a brighter future for the families we serve,” said Abraham Tulung, General Manager of Resource Development, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. 

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia’s participation in the BNI Indonesian Masters 2024 highlights how sports can be a platform for meaningful social change. With the support of the golfers, sponsors, and other partners, this initiative not only created historic moments on the golf course but also brought renewed hope to families in need. We hope this inspiring effort continues and brings more benefits to those who need it most. 

(av/kh)

I am Arwin Soelaksono from Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. I was on the ground during the early recovery phase and housing recovery program in Aceh following the tsunami. We built over 8,000 houses and were acknowledged as one of the most resilient non-governmental organizations working on the West Coast of Aceh, as well as other organizations like Samaritan’s Purse and the British Red Cross. Through the years and experiences, we took profound lessons, learned what we had done during the recovery, and gained the wisdom to help disaster-affected people rebuild their houses more effectively and sustainably. 

A story from Aceh after the Asian Tsunami 20 years ago 

By mid-2005, more than 5,000 international humanitarian workers had arrived in Aceh. During the heyday of the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Aceh, there were 124 International NGOs, dozens of United Nations organizations, and 430 local NGOs. During 2005-2006, cities like Banda Aceh, Meulaboh, and other West Coast parts were crowded with Non-Government Organizations or NGOs. Funded with a substantial amount of money, that is, 7.7 billion USD, the workers came and hit the ground running. 

This large amount of money was poured into the recovery operations, and the crowding of humanitarian workers quickly met the reality. The affected area experienced prolonged three decades of armed conflict and, therefore, had insufficient market capacities. The construction materials were far below the needs, especially for recovery agencies who work in housing. The imbalance of supply and demand then created severe inflation and competition amongst the recovery agencies. 

The competition did not stop; more problems occurred when the NGOs conflicted over who would get beneficiaries. It was a sad reality that recovery agencies had to compete so that the beneficiaries might choose which one could build their houses. At that time, it was common for NGOs to entice the beneficiaries to accept their housing donations and scrap the others. For instance, several NGOs offered to build larger or even two-story houses, not only houses but also donated furniture and TV sets. NGOs like Habitat for Humanity Indonesia were under challenging circumstances because our houses were 36 meters square, and no furniture was given to the beneficiaries. We believe there is sharing responsibility as houses are given freely; the homeowners should provide household goods according to their preferences. 

One evening in March 2006, a group of villagers came to our office in Rigaih, on the West Coast of Aceh. They asked us to build 45 square meters instead of 36-meter square houses as we promised them. The discussion was tense. We had to agree; otherwise, they would send us out and let other NGOs who can build 45-meter square houses work. So, NGO competition brings a bad attitude to the beneficiaries. It made them spoiled. At the end of the day, it can dictate the NGO that helped them to fulfill their unreasonable needs. That evening, I signed a letter saying we would leave the area and let other NGOs work since we refused to meet their demand.  

In the morning, as we prepared to leave the village and say goodbye to the community, we were surprised that the women were angry at their husbands. These ladies asked us to stay and build their houses. They told their husbands, “Let Habitat build our houses; then, we can ask other NGOs to build additional houses.” Even though I didn’t like what they were thinking, indeed, it was clever. This occasion brings us to a new understanding: women have a significant role in housing recovery post-disaster. 

Experience in Nepal in 2015 

Following the 2015 earthquake in Nepal, I was deployed by the American Red Cross to support housing recovery. One day during the recovery program, I was in Kaule village, one of the areas in Nepal hardest affected by the earthquake. I met a woman who was doing hard physical work. She carried a stone that would be used for her house. Though I believe the stone was heavy, I found no complaint from her on doing the work. In another place, I saw a family building their house. All are women from different generations, but both can do construction work. Still, in the same village, I saw women fixing steel rebar for earthquake-resistant bands. It was community work in which everyone knew the importance of earthquake-resistant attributes that must be installed in each house. So, individuals, families, and communities can do as men did in reconstruction work. 

Read also: Adequate Housing for a Resilient Future

So, why is women’s role significant in housing recovery? In my perspective, there are at least two aspects that can support this idea. 

First, they are focused. Protecting their children and families motivates them to finish the construction very soon. A woman I met in Nepal was running against the clock, ensuring her house would be finished before the winter. Those who were trained in safer construction carefully installed the material to achieve a robust structure.  

Second, their presence brings more actors to complete the housing recovery ecosystem. To ensure the recovery will be sustainable, the process will continue even after the external support from the government and NGOs is gone. To create the ecosystem, additional support should be provided for the most vulnerable, improving access to livelihoods, the availability of financial service providers in the area, and so on. These initiatives are usually outside the scope of work of housing actors; therefore, partnering with non-shelter or non-housing agencies should always be attempted. 

Construction training enhances the role of women more effectively 

Then, how could we help women work on their role in housing recovery effectively? What is the best way to prepare women that makes them capable so they can confidently work for their houses and their neighbor’s houses? 

The first start is through construction training as it was done in Nepal and Indonesia. For instance, during the 2015 housing recovery in Nepal, the government launched a mason training program as a preparation initiative prior to the massive reconstruction program. A 7-day training course taught them how to build an earthquake resistance house according to the code properly. The training was inclusive for men and women. A curriculum contained classroom activities and field training; if they passed the training, they would get a certificate. Women have been encouraged to participate, but their presence still needs to be improved. 

Then, why were recovery agencies so serious about providing support for women? Is it too much to give attention to women working in construction? 

Actually, giving more attention to women and trusting them to play a more significant role in the reconstruction process is respecting the nature of recovery. We need the post-disaster reconstruction process to be natural, as there is no shortcut to swift recovery. Injecting support that is driven by political pressure or other than recovery from within will not be sustainable or even lead to failure. 

Women have a unique instinct to protect their children; wherever I work, I often find their persistence in finishing the construction in good quality and as soon as possible. It is their potential. The houses should be strong enough not to be damaged again if there is a similar hazard. Interestingly, they have their own design according to their needs; therefore, having houses with their design gives higher satisfaction than modular houses. Moreover, if they build the houses by themselves, they will be confident in repairing or extending them. Such sustainability that everyone is expecting. 

Therefore, giving women a significant role in housing recovery will maximize their efforts to support their families, resulting in good construction quality and timely completion. Moreover, as a bonus, women can earn income from construction, eradicating vulnerability in the affected areas. 

Writer: Arwin Soelaksono/Program Director Habitat for Humanity Indonesia 

(kh/av) 

A month ago, as the evening sky was still wet with drizzle, Siti Nurhayati (37) stood in front of her newly renovated home. Its bright blue walls symbolized a fresh start in her life. Her smile reflected astonishment as she stepped inside for the first time, moving simple furniture into a space that now served as a safe haven for her family. 

“The first time I entered this house, it felt strange. I couldn’t believe it was mine. It’s so beautiful, like a dream,” Siti recalled about the moment she first walked into her home, renovated by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. 

For years, Siti had been dreaming of owning a decent home. During that time, she lived in her parents’ old house, a modest structure made of bamboo walls that had long since deteriorated. Every corner of the house spoke of hardship, with its damaged walls and leaky roof posing constant challenges. 

“Our house was in terrible condition. The bamboo walls were full of holes, and my husband often patched them with old tarpaulins. When it rained, water came in from everywhere, and rats often invaded. It felt like there was no safe place inside,” Siti shared. 

Having a decent home was no easy feat for Siti. To make ends meet, she relied on the income of her husband, Junaedi (40), who worked as a construction laborer earning IDR 70,000 (approximately $5) per day—paid every two weeks, if his employer was punctual. 

Aware of their financial struggles, Siti tried her luck by selling laundry detergent door-to-door to her neighbors. However, the additional income was just enough to cover daily meals. 

“We lived in constant hardship. Our children are still in school, and I also take care of my older sibling who has a mental illness. It was overwhelming, especially since our house was on the verge of collapse,” Siti added. 

Read also: The Blossoming of New Hope in Siti’s Decent Home

Their circumstances changed when Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, along with generous donors and volunteers, came to rebuild Siti’s house and those of five other families in Rajeg, Tangerang Regency. 

“Alhamdulillah, this house has changed everything. I feel much more at ease, more comfortable. There are no more leaks, no more rats. My children are also more motivated to study,” Siti said gratefully. 

Now, Siti can set aside a small portion of her income for her children’s education. Junaedi also has more energy to take on side jobs. “Our burdens feel lighter. I can also take better care of my sibling without feeling so stressed,” she added. 

To Siti, this house is more than just a building. It is a new place that brings peace and hope for a better future. “My parents always told me a house must be cherished. This isn’t just for us; it’s for our children. This house will become their inheritance,” Siti said with hope. 

The blue house now stands tall, bringing hope and a new beginning for Siti’s family—a first step toward a more stable and self-reliant life. You can also take part in bringing change to families like Siti Nurhayati’s. Through your compassion, more homes can be built to provide safe and decent shelter for those in need. 

Visit www.habitatindonesia.org/donate to donate and become part of our mission to create a better life. 

(kh/av)