Bogor, February 2, 2026 – In a quiet corner of Bogor Regency, Ibu Kokom (55) often sits in silence in front of her home as the late afternoon sun begins to set. She is a widow, a housewife, and the head of household for her five children. In those quiet moments, she often gazes at the home that has long been the only shelter for her family—a house filled with stories of loss, struggle, and hopes that nearly faded away.

Since 2012, Ibu Kokom’s life has changed completely. The passing of her husband left a deep sorrow and a heavy burden she had to bear alone. From that day, she became the backbone of her family, raising her five children with very limited means. Year after year, she struggled forward, striving to remain patient even when reality often felt overwhelming.

Yet the burden did not stop there. The home that should have been the safest place slowly lost its function. The house had partially collapsed before and was repaired only minimally. Its walls were made of bamboo partitions without a sturdy structure, held up by simple wooden beams. The aged zinc roof offered little protection. From a distance, the house looked tilted, as if it could collapse again at any moment.

For years, Ibu Kokom and her children lived without a bathroom or toilet. They relied on a small stream nearby for their basic needs. Close to the stream, there was a small spring often used for bathing and cleaning themselves.

“When it was really urgent, I sometimes had to use a neighbor’s bathroom,” Ibu Kokom said quietly. “But not often, because it’s embarrassing. It really doesn’t feel right to intrude.”

Ibu Kokom’s house is located far from her relatives’ homes. Since her husband passed away, she could only rely on neighbors. But receiving help was not always easy. There was a sense of hesitation, a feeling of discomfort—especially when kindness was not always available.

“I once had to deal with the neighbor locking their toilet door because I used it too often. They said I couldn’t use it anymore,” she recalled.

Those experiences left small scars on Ibu Kokom’s heart—not from anger, but from feeling powerless. She knew not everyone could keep sharing, and she was exhausted from always having to ask for help.

Amid these limitations, Ibu Kokom held onto a simple dream: to have a decent home. Not a luxurious one, not a large house. She only wanted a home that could protect her family, ease the burdens of life, and give her children a sense of safety. She never stopped praying, every time she worshiped, every time exhaustion set in. And one day, her prayers found a way.

Read also: The House That Became a Witness to Durahman’s Family Happiness

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, in collaboration with Astra, visited Ibu Kokom and helped renovate her home into a decent and safe dwelling. The news came as a ray of light amid the long years of hardship she had endured.

“Alhamdulillah, my children and I are so happy,” she said, tears welling in her eyes.

The house construction became an unforgettable moment. Many hands were involved, and acts of kindness flowed abundantly. Neighbors and residents volunteered, carrying materials, dismantling the old house, and digging into the septic tank. The once fragile home slowly transformed into a sturdy and safe building.

Now, the weight that had long pressed on her shoulders feels lifted. Her home is no longer a source of worry.

“Now I don’t have to think about all the problems with the house anymore,” she said. “The house is strong, it’s good, and we finally have our own bathroom and toilet. No more going to the stream.”

More than just a physical building, this decent home has restored the dignity of Ibu Kokom’s family. They now enjoy private space, better sanitation, and growing self-confidence. The children no longer feel inferior, and Ibu Kokom no longer feels ashamed.

For Ibu Kokom, this home is more than a place to live. It is a shelter from the harshness of life, a place where hope is sown again, and a space where her children’s future can be planned with greater peace.

“A home is where we return every day,” she said. “And this house will be everything for my children’s future.”

There are still many families like Ibu Kokom who hold similar simple dreams: the hope for a better, safer life despite limitations. Every home that is built does not just change a building—it changes the direction of a family’s life.

The right helping hand can answer prayers that have long been offered. If you want to be part of this change, your kindness can be contributed through: habitatindonesia.org/donate

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

Bogor, January 21, 2026 – That morning, Muhamad Qosim stood for a moment at the threshold of his home, which is now painted a bright blue. The small house that once felt cramped and filled with worry now looks spacious and calming. Something he once found nearly impossible to imagine has now become his everyday view.

Qosim, 47, is a familiar face at the Sentul Village Office in Babakan Madang, Bogor Regency. Since 2020, he has worked as an office boy there. For over five years, he has dedicated himself to cleaning rooms, preparing office supplies, and ensuring that public service activities run smoothly. The wages he receives do not exceed one million rupiah per month—an amount he must manage with extreme frugality to support his 41-year-old wife, Ella, and their three children: two who are in high school and elementary school, and a two-year-old.

Before becoming an office boy, Qosim worked as a local motorcycle driver. Moving from one job to another has long been a part of his life. Yet, one thing never changed: his responsibility as the head of the family and his desire to provide a sense of security for the people he loves.

The house they occupy is not new. Twenty years ago, Qosim bought it from his grandmother, with a land area of only 21 square meters. When it was just him and his wife, the house felt sufficient. However, as the children grew, the cramped space began to feel stifling.

“Since I’ve owned this house, it has never been rebuilt or expanded. It just stayed like this. At most, I’d fix it little by little if there was a leak or if the walls started peeling,” Qosim recalled.

The roof was made of asbestos, a material he knew posed health risks to his family. However, replacing it with tiles was no easy feat due to financial constraints. “I couldn’t afford to switch to a tiled roof. The cost is high, while my income is only enough for food and the children’s schooling,” he said softly.

Whenever he found holes in the walls or parts of the house starting to rot, Qosim always tried to repair them. The fear that the house might endanger his family at any moment was his driving force, even though his financial situation was often inadequate. Consequently, any money he had was always spent on patching up damages. They lived hand-to-mouth, with almost no room to save. Their income was only enough for daily meals and children’s education.

Read also: A Mother’s Story: Almost Leaving for the Future of Her Family

Change began when Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, together with PT Mitra Pinasthika Mustika, arrived in Sentul Village. Through an assessment process, Qosim’s home was deemed in need of an upgrade to become a decent place to live. The damaged condition of the house, his status in the lowest economic group, and the overcrowding of family members relative to the house’s size were the key considerations for building him a decent home.

The construction process was a moment filled with hope. Slowly, the fragile old house was replaced by a more spacious and sturdy dwelling. Now, Qosim’s house stands at 28 square meters, painted a bright blue that radiates a completely different atmosphere than before.

“Alhamdulillah, I am so grateful for this house. The whole family is beyond happy. Even my youngest child immediately pointed out where their room should be,” he said with a small laugh.

With a larger house, Qosim no longer has to share a mattress with the entire family. He, his wife, and their youngest child now have their own bedroom, while the other two children also have their own sleeping spaces.

“I also feel more confident. I’m no longer ashamed to welcome guests. I used to direct them to my parents’ house because my own was too cramped and inadequate,” he said.

The blessing of a decent home did not stop at physical changes. A few weeks after the house was completed, Qosim was offered a new role as a service staff member at the village office—an opportunity he had never imagined before, marking a new chapter in his life.

For Qosim, a decent home was not the direct cause of his change in status. However, the house became a foundation that provided security, peace of mind, and the confidence to take further steps. With more stable living conditions, he was able to demonstrate his full capacity and dedication at work.

“Now I have a new spirit. I want to work harder and save up slowly. In the future, I want to add one more bedroom,” he said hopefully.

Qosim’s story proves that a house is more than just a building. A house is the foundation of life that opens doors for change. When a family has a safe and decent place to live, hope finds a place to grow.

For Qosim, this decent home has led him not only to a better place to stay but to a life of greater dignity and hope.

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

Tangerang, January 13, 2026 – That afternoon, Durahman (55) and his wife, Rohayati (48), gathered in the living room of their new home, watching their children and grandchildren play with joyful laughter—without the disruptions of leaks or the stifling air they once endured.

Every corner of this new home holds happiness that once seemed unimaginable. For more than thirty years, Durahman and his family lived in a fragile, cramped house filled with limitations. Today, everything has changed. Their home is now safe, comfortable, and warm—a gift born of relentless hard work and unwavering prayers.

Before having a decent home, Durahman’s life was full of uncertainty. He worked as a day laborer, willing to do any job—from digging to construction—earning only fifty thousand rupiahs per day if there was work available. Two years earlier, when his body was still strong, he walked tens of kilometers to collect and sell scrap materials. Age and health, however, eventually made such heavy labor impossible.

Meanwhile, Rohayati devoted herself to managing the household. They were blessed with four daughters, two of whom are married and live next door. The third child had to drop out of school due to financial constraints, while the youngest continued attending elementary school. This lack often left Durahman and his wife feeling they had failed to provide a proper life for their children.

Their old house only added to the struggle. Some walls were brick, others bamboo, lacking proper structural support. The aging roof was riddled with leaks during the rainy season.

“That house leaked all the time. I felt sorry for my children; it disturbed their studying. I tried to patch it up, but it still leaked,” Durahman recalled.

Even the ceramic floor was a product of his labor from collecting scrap. “That’s why my floor looks patchy and uneven,” he said with a small laugh.

Sanitation was another major challenge. The family had only a simple bathroom, while for defecation, they had to rely on relatives’ houses or a pond. Yet Durahman remained grateful that the family could at least gather under one roof, despite its limitations.

“I really wanted to give my family a proper home. But sometimes we barely had enough to eat. My youngest once said he wanted a two-story house. I could only tell him, ‘Just pray, my child,’” he said.

Read also: A Mother’s Story: Almost Leaving for the Future of Her Family

That hope eventually found a way through the Decent Home Program run by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia in collaboration with MedcoEnergi and Medco Foundation. Durahman’s home, along with 14 other families in Rajeg, Tangerang Regency, was rebuilt as part of a total of 45 decent homes constructed across Tangerang, Palembang, and Situbondo.

“I never imagined my house could be transformed and look this good,” Durahman said, unable to hide his emotion.

The change is evident in every corner: a new, tight roof, sturdy cream-colored walls, uniform ceramic floors, and proper sanitation facilities.

The first night in his new home, Durahman found it hard to sleep. Memories of the old leaky, fragile house lingered. But the next morning, the laughter of children studying and playing in the living room made him realize—they finally had a safe and comfortable home. No more rodents, clean air filled every room, and having their own toilet brought dignity and hygiene beyond measure.

With this new home, Durahman began thinking about the next steps to improve his family’s life and fulfill his children’s dreams. “Slowly, while I save some extra money, I want to resume selling scrap in the city. But for now, I want to focus on getting my third child back to school; he wants to attend a pesantren like his older sibling,” he shared.

He also emphasized that this house is not just for him, but for his youngest child—a legacy of comfort, safety, and opportunity.

Durahman’s family life is now filled with simple yet priceless joy. He can sit with his children and grandchildren in the living room, watching them study, play, and laugh—a reality that once felt impossible.

Every brick laid, every tile shielding them from rain, is not just a physical structure but a silent witness to prayers, hopes, and love embedded in the walls. Durahman’s house is now a foundation for the future, a place where the next generation can grow safely, healthily, and confidently.

Like sunlight streaming through the windows of their new home, this house illuminates new hope for Durahman’s family. And with every support given, more families like theirs can experience the warmth of fulfilled prayers, the fruits of perseverance, and a life that is truly worthy.

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

Tangerang, January 8, 2026 – In a quiet corner of a village in Tangerang Regency, Kamila sits on the porch of her new, sturdy home, cradling her youngest baby. From time to time, she glances at the clean walls, the tight roof, and the dry floors. Her other child runs around the living room, laughing—a sound that was once drowned out by the heavy rain leaking through the roof of their old house.

It has been three weeks since Kamila moved into this decent home, yet her gratitude seems endless. Each morning, when she opens her eyes, she often pauses in awe. “Oh God… my house really looks like this,” she whispers, as if she still cannot fully believe that a dream that once felt so far away has now come true.

Before the New House

A few months ago, Kamila’s life was far from the sense of security she feels today. She and her small family lived in a house on the verge of collapse, with fragile bamboo walls, muddy dirt floors, and a roof that could no longer keep out the rain.

“When it rained, we had to lift the mattresses. We used pots to catch the leaks,” she recalled. During heavy downpours, water seeped not only from above but also from below. The dirt floor turned into mud, wet everywhere. Many nights, the family stayed awake—not because of the baby crying, but because they feared the roof might collapse.

During her pregnancy, the fear grew even stronger. “At that time, I was carrying this little one… I often felt so sad. I kept thinking, what if I give birth while still living in a house like this? I was afraid it might collapse… afraid something would happen to my baby.”

Economic limitations left the family with few options. Her husband, Samsul, 35, worked as a daily laborer in rice fields or construction sites, earning only IDR 50,000 per day—their sole source of income.

With a child in kindergarten and a baby, their daily needs were often unmet. “Sometimes we even had to borrow rice from the neighbors,” Kamila said. For her older child’s school fees, which amounted to nearly one million rupiah, Samsul often had to pay in installments or borrow from here and there. “It was really tough,” Kamila admitted.

In such desperate circumstances, Kamila even planned to work abroad as a migrant worker. She prepared documents, filled out forms, and even lost her diploma amid the long administrative process. But in the end, she canceled her plan because Samsul did not allow it.

“My husband said, ‘Be patient, Mah. Our sustenance is already arranged. Stay here, don’t go abroad. Let’s take care of our family and children.’”

When Kamila repeated her husband’s words, tears welled up in her eyes—not just out of love, but because she knew her decision to stay was solely for the family, even if it meant continuing to live in a house barely fit to be called home.

“There’s nothing we can do… our means are limited. Every extra rupiah goes straight to paying off debts,” she revealed.

Read also: Closing the Journey of 2025: Thank You for Building Hope Together

Hope Knocks on the Door

That hope arrived on a day she never expected. “I still remember… when the Habitat team came for the first survey. I felt so relieved. Even then, I had a little hope. But when we were actually chosen for assistance… Alhamdulillah, I am so grateful.”

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, together with donors, rebuilt Kamila’s house from the ground up—giving it a strong structure, solid walls, a leak-free roof, and spaces where her family could breathe easy. Before moving in, Kamila even contributed her small efforts to help build the kitchen and organize parts of the house—a small gesture from a big heart.

When she saw the house completed, Kamila could only bow her head and cry. “Oh God… is this the answer to my husband’s words telling me not to go abroad? Maybe if I had gone, I wouldn’t have gotten all of this.”

Three weeks in the new home have drastically changed their lives. “No more leaks, no more moving mattresses around,” she said with a wide smile. “It feels safe, comfortable… even sleeping is better.”

But the biggest change is not in the house itself—it is in her mind. Kamila can now focus on caring for her children without fearing the house might collapse or worrying about repair costs. She can think about her children’s future, not just surviving day to day. And without urgent repair expenses, the family can begin slowly paying off their debts.

“This house… is a blessing I never imagined before,” she said softly but firmly.

Kamila knows that her good fortune is not shared by all. “Millions of families out there also dream of a house like this. But their means… maybe are just like ours before. Very limited.”

Kamila’s story is a reminder that a house is not just a building—it is the foundation for a family to live with dignity, raise children safely, and dream bigger. And for families like hers, the caring hands of others are the bridge between hope and reality.

Help create more decent homes for families in Indonesia: habitatindonesia.org/donate

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

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)