Yogyakarta, December 3, 2025 – Every corner of Jogoyudan Village, in Gowongan Subdistrict, Jetis District, Yogyakarta, now appears alive again. But more than a decade ago, this area was on the brink of losing hope.

For Rodi Firdaus, the head of RW 10, memories of the 2010 Mount Merapi eruption are still vivid. At that time, heavy rains poured down and cold lava rushed into the settlement, carrying sand and rocks as large as cars. Nearly 200 homes were submerged, the protective embankments could not withstand the torrent, and many residents were forced to evacuate as their houses were buried under mud.

“The water back then surged up to four meters high. Everything was swept away — sand, rocks… everything went into the residents’ houses,” recalled Rodi. Siti Fathonah, a resident of RW 10, remembers the panic vividly. “That afternoon, I was attending a social gathering at the Community Hall. Suddenly, the floodwater entered the yard. Everyone panicked and ran to save themselves,” she said. “Three floods came one after the other. It felt almost hopeless,” she added.

The disaster destroyed not only physical structures but also the spirit of the residents. Houses that once stood strong were now severely damaged, some buried under mud, others losing roofs and walls. “It felt impossible to rebuild life here,” Rodi recalled.

Amid these challenges, external aid was almost invisible, as the village was not prioritized during the initial emergency response. Residents felt isolated and hopeless.

Hope began to emerge in early 2011. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia arrived in Jogoyudan, conducting surveys and data collection as part of the initial post-Merapi response. The first intervention was the construction of seven communal toilets, an initial step to restore basic needs. “We held discussions with community leaders and listened to residents’ needs. From that, a plan to rebuild decent houses emerged,” said Wahyu Kustanta, Community Organizer at Habitat Indonesia.

Construction began in RW 10 with seven houses. Gradually, it expanded to RW 8, 11, 12, and 13, until more than 160 decent houses stood firm. These homes were built with principles of safety, durable materials, and designs tailored to residents’ needs. “Alhamdulillah, my house was rebuilt. Because I run a small shop at home, the house was also designed to accommodate my business. It’s been very helpful,” said Siti Fathonah.

Beyond housing, Habitat Indonesia developed clean water facilities at several points in the village. This water system not only served affected families but also other residents, ensuring equitable access to clean water. Residents were actively involved in the construction, contributing materials, labor, and ideas. Three stormwater channels were also built using the Participatory Approach for Safe Shelter Awareness (PASSA), which engaged the community in planning and implementation.

“Residents were very actively involved. They were not just recipients of aid but part of the building process,” Wahyu said. “This gotong royong (mutual cooperation) made them feel ownership over their homes and community. They felt reborn,” he added.

The transformation housing concept applied in Jogoyudan went beyond rebuilding physical houses. It also strengthened community capacity, revitalized the local economy, and fostered awareness of collective responsibility.

Siti described the impact on her life: “Having this decent house has brought a huge change. I’ve been able to reorganize my small shop, gradually. Now my shop is thriving, stocked with goods, and my family feels safe.” The transformation touched not only the physical homes but also household economics and residents’ self-confidence.

By the end of 2025, all the facilities built during the post-disaster recovery were still in use and maintained by the community. “We even expand and improve them further,” said Rodi. For example, the clean water facilities are used for laundry services and other economic activities. The water system managed by the PASSA group is also reinvested into community welfare through savings and loan programs.

This program shows that disaster is not the end, but the beginning of real change. Residents who once lost hope are now rebuilding their lives on the same land. Decent housing, clean water facilities, and stormwater channels are not just physical assets but symbols of resilience and the community’s ability to recover.

Furthermore, the program emphasizes disaster risk reduction (DRR) through transformation housing. This concept combines safe physical housing construction, community participation, and preparedness for future disasters. Residents who were once victims now understand how to arrange homes and their surroundings to withstand risks, strengthen collective awareness, and build a stronger community.

Fifteen years after the disaster, Jogoyudan Village has not only recovered but stands as a living example that community-based interventions can change lives. Strong homes, accessible clean water, and functional stormwater systems are proof of sustainable transformation. Residents are no longer merely waiting for aid but have become agents of change in their own community.

Rodi concluded with confidence: “If Habitat had not come, we probably couldn’t live here again. Now, we not only have houses but also a sense of security, improved livelihoods, and a strong community.”

Disasters may leave scars, but these scars have been transformed into a new foundation for a better life. Jogoyudan Village proves that post-disaster recovery is not just about rebuilding—it’s about creating a resilient community capable of organizing life independently and sustainably.

Watch the video below to gain a deeper understanding of Housing Disaster Resilience and Recovery (HDRR)!

Video: HFHI/Budi Ariyanto

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

Tangerang, December 1, 2025 – Asnah, 38, starts her day before dawn. By five in the morning, she is already preparing to work at a neighbor’s house, helping out at their vegetable stall. Her work continues until evening, earning no more than sixty thousand rupiahs per day. Sometimes, when needed, Asnah is also asked to help with household chores—washing clothes, ironing, or cleaning the house. She willingly works late into the night for the extra income. This additional money is invaluable, sometimes reaching one hundred thousand rupiahs, and often comes with staples like rice, noodles, or eggs.

Before becoming a vegetable stall attendant, Asnah’s main profession was as a domestic helper. From this work, she learned perseverance, saved bit by bit, and tried to meet her family’s needs, despite their very modest life. Her husband, Niin, 49, works as a laborer in a rice mill, earning fifty thousand rupiahs per day. Together, they live in Rajeg, Tangerang Regency, with one married daughter who still resides with them.

Life, however, was full of challenges. Their house, more than thirty years old, was a simple bamboo structure without solid support, with an earthen floor that became muddy during the rainy season. Leaky roof tiles and rotting bamboo walls let water seep in.

“When it rained heavily, we all had to leave the house and take shelter at relatives’ homes next door,” Asnah recalled.

The most heartbreaking issue was the lack of a toilet. “I had to rely on neighbors’ bathrooms. Because we used them so often, some neighbors even locked their toilets so my family couldn’t use them,” she said. When it became urgent, they were forced to relieve themselves in an outdoor latrine, sometimes at night in complete darkness.

Their crisis did not end there. There was no access to clean water at home either. “When I was still working as a helper, I had to borrow money from here and there just to drill for water and install a pump,” Asnah said. As for electricity, it could only be installed after making payments in installments.

Once water and electricity were available, Asnah realized another vital need: her house had to be repaired to become livable. But fate had not yet favored her. “After paying off all the debts for water and electricity, a few months later my house collapsed. I came home from work to find it flattened. I cried so hard. Eventually, I borrowed money from my employer until he personally came to see my house,” she recalled.

With her employer’s help, Asnah received a four-million-rupiah loan to rebuild her home. “We built it as best as we could, with help from relatives. The house had bamboo walls and an earthen floor,” she said. Although simple, the house provided shelter. They salvaged usable remnants from the ruins to rebuild their home.

Despite everything, Asnah and Niin never lost hope. They continued to pray and save, aiming to renovate the house in 2026 to make it sturdier and more livable. But daily life often forced them to postpone their dream. The money they saved was always spent on family needs, requiring Asnah to work harder, leaving less time with her family.

Finally, their dream came true sooner than expected. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, in collaboration with PT Caterpillar Indonesia and PT Caterpillar Finance Indonesia, selected Asnah as a recipient of the Decent Home Program.

“When I heard from the neighborhood head that my house would be rebuilt properly, I was extremely grateful. I was so moved, I couldn’t even find words,” Asnah said, her eyes welling with tears.

Read also: A Decent Home Becomes the Pillar of Life for Ibu Imas and Her Family

In early August 2025, 69 volunteers from Caterpillar began laying the foundation for Asnah’s house along with two other families. Years of Asnah’s struggle finally bore fruit: a decent home that provides protection and dignity for her family.

“My hard work over the years to support my family has finally led to a good house. Life used to be so hard that even buying gas for cooking meant borrowing. Now I have a decent home with a toilet and bathroom; I no longer have to rely on neighbors. I’m not ashamed anymore,” she said with joy.

This support also felt like an answered prayer. “I had planned to renovate the house next year. Alhamdulillah, it’s answered now. I can use my savings to pay off all debts. It feels like starting life from scratch, but much more peaceful,” Asnah added.

During nearly two months of construction, Asnah and Niin actively contributed. They woke early, moved materials, and even prepared meals for the construction workers, despite their own limitations.

“My husband always helps the builders. I work at the neighbor’s house to earn extra income. My employer often gave more than my wages to help with the house construction. Thank God, the ceiling of my house was finally completed without any debt,” Asnah explained.

Now, Asnah’s new home has brought significant changes to their lives. The air is cleaner, free from rats, and their grandchild no longer struggles at night from the heat.

She continues to work as an attendant at her neighbor’s vegetable stall, a job she took up after her home became livable, while still earning extra income as a domestic helper in her spare time. This change is not just about work; it is about dignity, health, and family economic stability.

“This house is where I will take shelter for the rest of my life. My family will always come back here,” Asnah concluded, smiling with heartfelt certainty.

Every brick laid, every floor arranged neatly, is not just a building—it is a silent witness to struggle, hope, and prayers that never extinguished. With your support, more families like Asnah’s can light up their homes, rebuild their lives from scratch, and face the future with confidence.

Let’s be part of this story together, planting kindness that will continue to grow in every home we help. Visit: habitatindonesia.org/donate

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(av/kh)

Cilegon, November 26, 2025 – Every day, soft, steady footsteps echo along the streets of Cilegon. In one hand, a small bag hangs from his shoulder, filled with massage oil and a clean cloth. In the other, he grips a small walking stick that guides his way forward. Under the blazing sun or the gentle drizzle, he keeps moving—steadily, unafraid—though he has never seen the world with his own eyes.

This is Muhdi Hadi, a 40-year-old traveling masseur whose life is marked by perseverance and quiet strength. He lives with his wife, Baitini, 31, who, like him, was born blind. Together, they reside in a modest house in Ciwandan District, Cilegon, Banten. They have no children, but their companionship fills the small space they call home with warmth and resilience.

Every morning, Muhdi carefully checks the items in his bag—the massage oil, the clean cloth—before setting out from one neighborhood to another, offering his services to local residents. His income is modest and unpredictable, sometimes only reaching IDR 400,000 to 500,000 a month. Yet, to him, every rupiah is earned with honesty and effort. “It’s just enough to get by,” he says softly, his voice calm with acceptance.

But behind his quiet determination lies a difficult truth—his home was falling apart. The old structure had weakened with age: the walls were brittle, and the roof had rotted. Every time heavy rain poured, water would leak through the ceiling, soaking the floor. Pieces of the roof sometimes fell in the middle of the night as they slept.

“When it rained hard, water came in from everywhere,” he recalls. “Once, I was giving a massage at home, and suddenly it started leaking. We had to move around to avoid getting wet. I was embarrassed, but I couldn’t afford to fix the house.”

He knew how dangerous it was to live in such a fragile building. “The house was already old and weak. We were scared, especially when strong winds came,” he said quietly. “Once, during a big storm, my wife and I sat by the door, ready to run if the house collapsed.”

Living in such conditions made every day harder. “I already have limited vision,” he murmured. “Living in a dark, damp, broken house made everything even more difficult.”

Read also: The Spirit of a Strong Woman Behind the Revitalization of Tanjung Kait Village

Despite these challenges, Muhdi never gave up. He continued offering massages from his tiny, leaking home, holding on to hope. Then one day, news arrived that would change his life—Habitat for Humanity, in partnership with POSCO, announced that they would rebuild homes for low-income families in his neighborhood, including his.

“I was so happy—too happy to even find the right words,” Muhdi said, his voice filled with emotion.

When construction began, he didn’t just sit and wait. Despite his disability, he found ways to contribute—preparing snacks and drinks for the builders. Often, he would run his fingers along the new walls, feeling the smooth plaster and the solid floor beneath his feet. Through touch, he could sense the change.

“I can’t see, but I can feel that this house is truly fit for us,” he said. “It was designed for people like me and my wife who have special needs. There’s a fence, handrails in every room, and the floor textures are different—some rough, some smooth—so we can move safely. It’s really thoughtful.”

Now, their new home is more than just a shelter—it’s a symbol of hope. His wife, Baitini, says she no longer feels anxious when it rains. “A house should protect you from the rain and heat,” she said gently. “Now, I’m grateful. This new home feels like a blessing.”

For Muhdi, the new house is also a new opportunity. He plans to put up a small sign in front of his house to attract more clients. “I hope this home brings new blessings,” he said with a smile. “I want to save money for our future—maybe one day, for a child.”

The home construction was part of the 2025 POSCO 1% Foundation Echo Village Project, a collaboration between Habitat for Humanity and POSCO. Through this initiative, six safe and environmentally friendly homes were built. The houses feature eco-bricks made from recycled plastic, rainwater harvesting systems, and septic tanks with soak pits to ensure proper sanitation for each family.

Beyond building homes, the project also offered Healthy Home Management and Building Back Safer (BBS) training for 50 other families in the surrounding areas of Ciwandan and Citangkil. Residents also received Disaster Preparedness Team (TBSK) training and were supported in proposing Disaster-Resilient Village (Kaltana) status to Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB).

Today, among the rows of new houses standing strong in Cilegon, Muhdi’s small home shines as a beacon of hope. He may not be able to see it, but every time his hand touches the sturdy walls, he knows—his struggle has not been in vain.

“I used to dream of having a house that wouldn’t leak,” he said softly. “Now, that dream has finally come true.”

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(av/kh)

November 21, 2025 – In a small hamlet in East Kupang, Kupang Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, stands a modest 4-by-6-meter house owned by Alex Batuk (46). Its walls are made of bebak lontar (palm bark), the roof from dried palm leaves, and the floor is still bare earth. In this small house, Alex lives with his wife, Trudelyanti (34), and their three children, one of whom is still a toddler.

Every corner of the house tells a story of struggle. When heavy rain falls, water seeps in from all directions, leaving the floor muddy and damp. The lontar walls are fragile with age, and the single window offers little air circulation. The family has lived here for over seven years—years filled with worry, endurance, and hope.

“Because the roof is made from palm leaves, I have to save money every three years to replace it. The same goes for the walls when they’re eaten by termites,” Alex explained.

Earning around one million rupiah per month as a farmer, every coin matters. To supplement his income, Alex also makes and sells palm sugar during his spare time.

Yet for this small family, the greatest fear is not just about money—it’s about survival.

“I always feel anxious whenever strong winds blow, like during the Seroja cyclone. Our house could easily collapse. When the wind is strong, we sit near the door, ready to run outside if the roof gives way,” he recalled.

A Turning Point for Hope

A new chapter began when the Habitat for Humanity Indonesia team, together with PT Arthawenasakti Gemilang, arrived in their village. After witnessing the family’s unsafe living conditions, Habitat decided to help rebuild Alex’s home into a safer, healthier place to live.

But this story goes beyond receiving assistance. When construction began, Alex—who once worked as a builder—was invited to join the construction team. He was no longer just a beneficiary, but an active contributor to building his own dream home.

“Before Habitat came to our village, I sometimes worked as a construction laborer. So I understand what a proper, sturdy house should look like, and how to build a strong foundation,” Alex shared.

Through training provided by Habitat Indonesia, Alex learned more about earthquake-resistant housing standards and safe construction techniques. He took part in the entire process—from laying the foundation to installing the roof—making sure everything was done properly.

“The difference is amazing. This new house feels so strong and solid because I know exactly how it was built. I helped build it myself,” he said proudly.

Read also: A Gift from Unceasing Prayers

A Home That Transforms Lives

Today, Alex’s new home stands firm—a safe and dignified place for his family.

“A home is where we find shelter from the rain and the heat. Now I’m so grateful to have a good house like this,” said Trudelyanti, gazing at the fresh new walls. “It fits our family perfectly. Our two children finally have their own room.”

More than just comfort, the new home has brought real change to the family’s life. With no need to constantly repair roofs or walls, the money that used to be spent on maintenance can now be saved for their children’s education.

“Now I can save little by little for my children’s future. I no longer worry about leaks or broken walls,” Alex said with gratitude.

After his house was completed, Alex decided to continue working as a construction worker with Habitat’s team, helping to build homes for other families in his community.

Now, every time he helps raise the walls of another family’s house, he feels the same spirit—the desire to provide safety and hope for others, just as he once received.

Thanks to the support of PT Arthawenasakti Gemilang, this housing project has successfully built and renovated 100 homes for families in Kupang and surrounding areas. Behind those numbers lie real stories—like Alex’s—of resilience, sincerity, and hope rising from newly built walls.

Because for Alex, and for many families like his, a home is more than just a place to live. It is where hope grows, love dwells, and life begins again.

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(av/kh)

Meet Ibu Nimah, one of the women of Tanjung Kait Village who directly participated in building decent homes. 

Tangerang, October 2, 2025 – There is a spirit that cannot be extinguished in the simple figure of Ibu Nimah. Every morning, the 55-year-old woman starts her day with a small question in her heart: “What can I help with today? What can I do today?” This simple thought sparks the energy that keeps her strong, even though life has not always been easy. 

Ibu Nimah is one of the residents of Tanjung Kait Village, Tangerang Regency, whose house was rebuilt under the Tanjung Kait Village Revitalization Program. The program provided 110 new decent homes for residents, along with improved supporting infrastructure. For Nimah, the program is not just a physical project but an opportunity to leave a meaningful mark in rebuilding her village. 

The Beginning of the Journey 

At first, Nimah’s involvement in the project was simple. She only provided drinks and snacks for the workers busy building houses in her village. However, as days passed, she felt she wanted to do more. She realized that, even without enough money to repair her own house, she still had her energy to offer. “I have no money, nothing to give. But I have strength, and that’s what I can contribute,” she said. 

From that moment, Nimah no longer stood on the sidelines. She joined the community in gotong royong (cooperation), working alongside other residents, including women, to help the construction workers. 

Nimah’s involvement is inseparable from the condition of her old house. For decades, she lived in a home that grew increasingly fragile. The walls were cracked, the floor uneven, and the roof leaked whenever it rained. Worst of all, during high tides, her house would often flood. Saltwater would enter, damaging furniture, making walls damp, and causing further deterioration. 

As a widow who relied on her children’s income and occasional odd jobs like peeling clams, Nimah could not afford to repair her house. Anxiety constantly haunted her, especially during heavy rains combined with high tides. She never knew when her house might collapse. 

Gradually, her difficult situation found relief when the Tanjung Kait Village Revitalization Program came. Initiated by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia in collaboration with the Tangerang Regency Government, the Mitra Dhuafa Cooperative (KOMIDA), and supported by donors, the program was a blessing that answered Nimah’s long-held prayers. 

Read also: Strengthening Community Capacity as the Key too Sustaining the Tanjung Kait Village Revitalization

As construction began, Nimah felt increasingly compelled to participate. Knowing that her house was one of those being built, she wanted to leave her mark. Nimah contributed in ways she could—carrying light materials, tidying the work area, and even giving small touches to the walls. Though seemingly minor, every effort was a tangible form of involvement in building her dream home. 

“At first, the workers felt sorry for me. But after seeing my spirit, they got motivated too. I’m not ashamed, not embarrassed, because I know my effort can be useful,” she said, her face glowing. 

Nimah’s involvement brought a unique vibrancy amid the hustle of construction. Workers and other residents witnessed the determination of a woman who refused to give in to circumstances. The cooperation she joined strengthened social bonds in Tanjung Kait. 

For Nimah, every drop of sweat is a prayer. She believes that her efforts will leave beautiful memories, not only because she helped build her own home but also because she contributed to the future of her village. 

Today, Nimah’s new house is not yet fully completed. She is still busy with finishing touches, from sanding to painting the walls. Yet, she places great hope in the home. “I hope this new house can bring happiness, both physically and spiritually. A safe place for me and my children, a place where we can gather without fear of floods or a leaking roof,” she said with hope. 

Nimah’s wish is simple, yet deeply meaningful. She wants her new home to be a source of peace, a place where she no longer lives under the shadow of disaster, and a symbol of renewed spirit in her life. 

Read also: No More Shame, No More Fear: Ibu Uri’s Story with Her New Toilet

Women and Participation 

More than just building homes, Nimah’s story highlights an important issue: women’s involvement in community development. Construction work has long been considered men’s work, yet Nimah proves that women can play an active role, even with limited resources. 

Her spirit demonstrates how empowering women can have a positive impact. Her presence at the construction site shows that women are not just waiting for results—they can also be part of the process. In Tanjung Kait, the voices and efforts of women help build not only houses but also social cohesion and community independence. 

This story also teaches that contribution is not always measured by wealth or material. Despite her limitations, Nimah made a significant impact through her energy, dedication, and perseverance. Her story reflects that village revitalization is not just about constructing homes but also about building people through awareness, independence, and participation, including that of women. 

In the end, Ibu Nimah stands as a simple symbol carrying a profound meaning: anyone, regardless of who they are, can be part of meaningful change. 

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av) 

There is a joy that cannot be hidden on the face of Imas Laelasari (52). That smile comes from the presence of a simple yet decent home that brings a sense of security, peace, and a glimmer of new hope for her and her three children. In Gunung Putri, Bogor Regency, the house with red and gray walls now stands sturdy, replacing the old fragile building filled with anxiety. 

Since 2015, Imas had lived in a house far from decent. The structure, lacking strength, caused cracks in the walls. The roof leaked, the tiled floor was broken, and every night she had to pray that the house would not collapse on her small family. “One night, I was watching TV with my eldest child when suddenly the roof tiles fell. I panicked. I was afraid it could collapse on me and the children at any moment,” Imas recalled. 

She had long prayed that her home could become safe again. She still remembered the words of her late husband before he passed away eight years ago: “Don’t ever sell this house, Mah, so our children can live in it later.” That message remained deeply rooted, so even as the house deteriorated, she stayed. However, repairing the house was not easy. For daily needs, Imas could only rely on her children’s often unpredictable income. 

“If this house collapsed, I truly wouldn’t know where to live. So all I could do was pray that there would be a way,” she said quietly. 

Read also: A Decent Home Transforms the Future of the Iqballudin Family

The answer finally came. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, in collaboration with Prudential Indonesia through the Desa Maju Prudential Program, rebuilt Imas’s home. The walls now stand strong, the roof is solid, the floors are neat, and the interior is far more comfortable. The toilet, which once terrified her because of snakes, is now clean and safe to use. 

“Alhamdulillah, I am very happy and deeply grateful to everyone who helped my family. Everything has changed so much. I no longer fear or worry that the house will collapse,” Imas said with relief. 

More than just a building, this home provides Imas with a sense of safety. She no longer fears that the walls will crumble, worries about intruders, or feels anxious during heavy rains. 

The house also sparks new energy. Soon after it was completed, Imas sought capital to start selling snacks in front of her house. She wants to use this new space as a starting point for a small business, gradually moving toward independence. 

“This house is my treasure. If my husband were still here, he would surely be happy to see it,” she said, holding back tears. 

The transformation experienced by Imas aligns with the broader goals of the third phase of the Desa Maju Prudential Program, which began in November 2024. The program not only builds houses like Imas’s but also has a wide-ranging impact on the community. It has constructed 27 new decent homes, 21 new household toilets, renovated 4 educational and public facilities, provided machines to turn waste into plastic pellets, conducted waste management training for 210 participants, trained 75 waste management officers, and offered education on basic healthy housing construction, clean and healthy living habits, and disaster mitigation for the community. 

For some, a house may only be seen as a place to shelter. But for Imas, this new home is a symbol of a new life. From this house, she has regained spirit, hope, and courage to move forward with her children. 

Writter: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

That afternoon, precisely at four o’clock, sunlight softly filtered through the leaves and fell on the blue walls of Iqballudin’s new house. The walls stood firm, as if bearing witness to the significant changes in the life of this small family in Babakan Madang, Bogor Regency. The Habitat for Humanity Indonesia team visited Iqballudin’s home once again, now fully habitable. There was a sense of pride in seeing how the family cared for their new house. Just one day after construction was completed, Iqballudin had already built a simple kitchen on his own, a clear sign of his determination to provide a better life for his wife and children. 

Before this new house arrived, the Iqballudin family’s life was full of limitations. Iqballudin, a 41-year-old day laborer, relied on a daily wage of only IDR 50,000 to meet the family’s basic needs. Together with his wife, Siti Romyanah (36), a homemaker, they raised three school-aged children. Yet their old house made everything much more difficult. 

Their previous home had no foundation, consisting merely of a simple structure made of GRC panels and woven bamboo. Without a kitchen or toilet, the family had to depend on relatives’ homes for cooking and bathing. To make matters worse, termites began to infest the walls and pillars, further weakening the structure. 

With tears in her eyes, Siti recalled the constant fear that haunted her. “The termites had reached the top. I felt like the house was going to collapse. I was very worried about the children. If there was a leak, I was afraid the kids would get sick, especially the little one,” she said, her voice trembling. 

Those memories became part of a long journey, living in a home that never provided a sense of safety. Nights were often shadowed by anxiety, especially when heavy rains fell. 

However, all of that changed through the CEO Build 2025 event. Thanks to the support of Mr. Edwin Soeryadjaya in collaboration with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, a new house for the Iqballudin family finally stood tall. The house is sturdy, safe, and vastly different from the fragile structure they had before. 

Iqballudin could not hide his emotion as he expressed his gratitude. “Alhamdulillah, I feel very happy and grateful. My house is now very solid, unlike before when it was fragile and almost collapsing,” he said with a sense of relief. 

Siti added with a calmer smile, “There are so many changes. At least now we can sleep peacefully every night without worry. The children are happy, and we are all happy.” 

Read also: Building Indonesia: POSCO and Habitat for Humanity Collaborate to Provide Decent Homes in Cilegon

This transformation is not just about the physical building. Its impact is deeply felt in daily life. Their children are now healthier, no longer exposed to leaks, dampness, and termites. They no longer have to go back and forth to grandparents’ houses just to bathe or use a toilet. Their privacy is better protected, hygiene is improved, and the children’s overall health has increased. 

The effect on the children’s education is also significant. A safe and comfortable home allows them to study without worrying about a leaking roof. A healthier home environment gives them the opportunity to focus on school. Iqballudin believes that this house will be the foundation for his children’s future. “At least now the children can study calmly. I want them to get the highest education possible so that their future will be better than mine,” he said with hope. 

Furthermore, the new house has boosted the family’s confidence. There is no longer any shame when neighbors or relatives visit. They now have a proper space to welcome guests—a place they can truly call home. 

With heartfelt gratitude, Iqballudin once again expressed his thanks. “I am truly grateful to Mr. Edwin and Habitat for this new house. This support means so much to me and my family. May Allah bless this kindness many times over,” he said sincerely. 

From a simple home that now stands strong, new hope grows for this small family. A house not only protects from rain and heat but also becomes a place where children’s dreams, health, and future can grow strong. Behind every standing wall lies the story that change is always possible when care is turned into concrete action. 

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

A lively morning greeted the faces of young children as they stepped into the schoolyard. Their cheerful laughter echoed as they ran, carrying their small backpacks. In the hallway, their singing harmonized, creating a simple melody that brought the atmosphere to life. This day wasn’t just the first day back after a long holiday; it was a vibrant new beginning for RA Dwi Tunas Bangsa, a school in Tangerang Regency that now seemed to have been reborn. 

The school building, once fragile, now stands strong. The structure has been reinforced, the leaky roof has been replaced, and every corner of the rooms has been renovated to be safer. The bright yellow walls make the school feel warm and welcoming. The two classrooms are now spacious and comfortable, the teacher’s room has become a proper place for discussions, and most importantly, a new, hygienic, and safe toilet has been built for the children. All of this makes RA Dwi Tunas Bangsa feel like a second home, fit for a young generation full of dreams. 

However, the current condition is vastly different from the school’s past. For over a decade, the building had slowly deteriorated. The paint faded, some walls were cracked, the roof leaked when it rained, and the classrooms felt stuffy without proper ventilation. The school’s toilet had long been out of order, forcing children to use a neighbor’s house whenever they needed to go. This situation not only made them uncomfortable but also risked their health and lowered their self-confidence. 

Due to the limited facilities, the number of students dropped dramatically. Only about 15 students remained. Many parents were hesitant to enroll their children at RA Dwi Tunas Bangsa, not because of the quality of teaching, but because the building was considered unfit. For Agustini, the headmistress, this was a heavy burden. She wanted the children in her community to receive a proper early education, but the lack of facilities made the struggle difficult. 

Read also: A Bright Future for Children Through Housing & Technology in Rajeg-Tangerang

Good news finally arrived when Habitat for Humanity saw the situation and decided to step in. This collaboration didn’t just fix a building; it revived hope. A comprehensive renovation was carried out. The building structure was reinforced, the roof was repaired, classrooms were updated, the teacher’s room was reorganized, and a new, proper, and hygienic toilet was built. 

“The help to build these school facilities has truly helped us. Now we can accept more students. From just 15, the number of students has doubled. Now more than 30 children are studying here,” said Agustini with a relieved smile. 

For Agustini, it’s not just the number of students that has increased. More than that, the learning environment has become much more pleasant. “The most important thing is the safe new classrooms, the roof that doesn’t leak, and the proper toilet facilities. The children feel at home, and the teachers are more motivated. A comfortable learning environment truly makes a big difference,” she added. 

This change is tangible for both students and teachers. The children can now learn peacefully without feeling hot. The teachers can focus on teaching without worrying about facility limitations. The school is no longer just a makeshift place, but a space truly worthy of nurturing dreams. 

Education is the foundation of the future. A decent school building isn’t just about walls and a roof; it’s a place that instills values, character, and hope. Every bright color on the walls of RA Dwi Tunas Bangsa symbolizes a new spirit. Every child’s laughter is proof that adequate access to education truly paves the way for a brighter future. 

“I hope this school becomes a support for children in achieving their future. We want them to grow up confident, healthy, and daring to dream,” Agustini concluded with great hope. 

From this simple hallway in Tangerang Regency, we learn that the future of children should not be limited by the condition of a fragile building. With collaboration and care, a strong and comfortable school can become the starting point for the next generation to go further.  

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

That day, Ibu Uri (54) couldn’t hide her gratitude. After more than thirty years of waiting, she finally had access to proper sanitation—just like many other families. Her eyes welled with tears as she stood in front of the small orange-colored structure that now stood firmly inside her home. “I never imagined this would happen. This toilet is the first real help my family has ever received,” she whispered, still in disbelief. 

For more than three decades, Uri lived with her only daughter, Ella (30), under poor sanitation conditions. For bathing, they used a makeshift space with just a cement plaster floor. For defecation, they shared a simple wooden and plastic tarp latrine without a roof with four other families. “It was never easy back then,” she recalled. “We were scared to use the toilet at night. The kids always asked to be accompanied.” 

This bitter memory also lingers in Ella’s mind, who now has two children aged nine and five. She vividly remembers the time she was pregnant with her second child. “One time I slipped because the floor was so slippery. My foot fell into the latrine hole, and the wooden boards collapsed. I was terrified and cried uncontrollably,” she recounted. 

The rainy season made things worse. Overflowing latrine pits would contaminate the yard, creating a strong stench and deep embarrassment. “It often smelled terrible, especially when it rained. Sometimes it would flood the yard. When guests came, it was so embarrassing. One even asked, ‘Why is the toilet like a fishpond?’ My mom and I were mortified,” Ella added. 

Sanitation issues like those faced by Uri and Ella are not isolated cases. According to 2024 BPS data, 89.38% of families in Tangerang Regency have access to proper toilets. That still leaves around 10.62% of families without adequate sanitation facilities. 

Economic hardship is the main barrier. Uri, who once worked as a waste collector, can no longer work due to a respiratory illness. The family’s only income comes from Ella, who works as a daily laborer at a plastic container factory, earning around Rp67,000 (about USD 4) per day. This barely covers essentials like rice and the children’s school money. Uri’s husband, Acin, passed away when Ella was only eight years old. 

“There’s no way we could afford to build a toilet,” Uri said quietly. “Sometimes it’s even hard to buy food.” She added with hope in her voice, “I just wanted a proper toilet like other people, so we wouldn’t have to feel ashamed anymore.” 

But life holds surprises. Good news finally came to Uri’s doorstep. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, in partnership with PT Mitra Pinasthika Mustika Tbk (MPM), built toilets for Uri’s family and five other families facing similar conditions in Rajeg District, Tangerang Regency. 

Uri recalls the moment construction materials arrived at her house. “I was so thankful. I really didn’t believe it at first—when the materials actually showed up, I thought it was a joke,” she said, smiling as she pointed to the bright orange walls of her new toilet. 

The toilet is more than just a structure. It transformed habits, improved hygiene, and brought peace of mind. “It’s changed everything—from our daily routines to how much cleaner and healthier our lives are now,” Ella shared with enthusiasm. 

There are no more scary trips to the latrine at night, no more overflowing pits, and most importantly, no more shame. “The kids are much cleaner now, they bathe more often. Thank God they no longer complain about bad smells or itchy skin like before,” Ella added, her face glowing with joy. 

Behind the modest walls of that toilet, a new hope has emerged. Uri now dreams of gradually improving the rest of her home. “Now that the toilet is nice, I want to start fixing up the house bit by bit,” she said, looking around the small home that shelters her family. 

To some, a toilet may seem like a small thing. But for families like Uri and Ella’s, having access to safe sanitation is a dream come true. That toilet represents dignity, comfort, and health. 

From this small family’s story, we’re reminded that real change often begins with the most basic human need: access to proper sanitation. Support more families like Ibu Uri’s through: habitatindonesia.org/donate

(kh/av)

“It’s completely different now… I no longer have to bow my head when entering the house because of how small it used to be. This home is more than decent—it’s truly beautiful. It’s an incredible blessing for my family.” 

That’s what Mr. Dewy Loek shared with eyes full of gratitude when the Habitat for Humanity Indonesia team visited his new, sturdy home in East Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara. His words came from a heart long filled with silent hope. That evening, the Habitat team wasn’t just talking about construction—they were listening to a life slowly changing. 

For Mr. Dewy, this house is the answer to years of heartfelt prayers. Before, he lived with his wife and two children in a simple square-shaped structure with a dirt floor, lontar-leaf walls, and a thatched roof. There were no partitions, no ventilation, and no bathroom. Everything happened in one cramped space they all had to share. 

During the dry season, the air inside became stifling and unbearably hot. With no windows for airflow, his children often woke up in the middle of the night drenched in sweat. But in the rainy season, conditions were even worse—leaking roofs let rainwater pour in, turning the floor into mud. Many nights, they had to move the children off their soaked mattresses. 

That worry was a daily companion. Mr. Dewy knew this wasn’t a safe place to raise his children. But as a farm laborer and fisherman, he had few options. The little savings he managed to gather would always be spent on temporary repairs. In the midst of such limitations, all he could do was keep praying—day after day. 

Read also: Living in Decent Homes, Hundreds of Families in Gresik Are Ready to Build a Brighter Future

Then, finally, a helping hand reached out. With support from Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and PT Arthawenasakti Gemilang, a new home was built—a home with two bedrooms, a proper toilet, and a strong structure. Bright yellow walls now replaced the old palm leaves and thatch that once served as their only shelter. 

“I still can’t believe it,” Mr. Dewy said. “This house is so comfortable. The children are happy—they each have their own room now. No more stories of wet beds or sweating through the night.” 

During the building process, Mr. Dewy was far from idle. He helped the builders, carried materials, and prepared meals as best he could. He did it all with full spirit, even though the family’s economic situation remained tight. For him, this house was a gift he wanted to help build with his own hands—for his wife and children. 

Now, the home stands firm, bringing about many changes. The children can play and study without fear. His wife, Nuh Loek, feels much more at peace. They now have a clean indoor toilet—a huge leap from the past, when they had to relieve themselves outdoors with no privacy. The house has brought them health, comfort, and a sense of security they had never known. 

More than that, for the first time, Mr. Dewy is able to save money. What was once spent on constant repairs can now go toward his children’s education. He looks to the future with new confidence and a heart no longer weighed down by anxiety. 

For the Dewy family, this house is more than just a building. It’s the beginning of a better life—a place where children can grow, learn, and dream. A place where a husband and wife can rest without fearing a collapsing roof or a flooded floor. 

And to this day, Mr. Dewy continues to pray. But now, those prayers are no longer just for himself. He prays for his brothers and sisters who still live under fragile roofs and behind cracked walls. He prays that they too may be blessed with a decent home—a place where hope can safely anchor, just like the one he now has. 

Mr. Dewy’s story is just one among many unheard voices from families living in substandard housing. Voices that begin to be heard when someone cares—when someone chooses to act. Many more families are still waiting for that same hope: a safe, healthy, and decent home to grow with their loved ones. 

If this story touches you, you too can be part of this journey of change. Learn how at habitatindonesia.org/donate, because a decent home should not be a dream—it should be a reality for every family. 

(kh/av)