The morning sun shone warmer in Mauk Barat Village, Mauk District, Tangerang. On that day, 30 enthusiastic volunteers gathered to fulfill a noble mission. With shovels in hand and hearts filled with dedication, they worked together to lay the foundations and build walls for three decent homes (14/12). This activity was not merely about volunteering—it held profound significance as a tribute to the late Raden Andreas Hapsoro.
The initiative, titled “Hapsoro Tribute Build,” was not just about constructing houses but also embodied the spirit of a great figure who dedicated his life to humanity. For 19 years, Hapsoro was a vital part of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, leaving an indelible mark in the quest to provide decent housing for those in need.
Hapsoro’s life was a colorful journey. He began his career as a freelance contractor and ventured briefly into the manufacturing sector before joining Habitat for Humanity Indonesia from 2000 to 2005. He later returned to Habitat Indonesia as a construction manager, overseeing housing projects for survivors of the 2004 Aceh tsunami. It was through this work that his calling as a humanitarian deepened. Over the next decade, he held various strategic roles, eventually becoming Disaster Response and Regional Manager.
Hapsoro’s career took another significant turn when he was entrusted to serve as Disaster Response Specialist for Habitat for Humanity International in Makati, Philippines, from 2015 to 2020. Yet, his heart remained devoted to Indonesia. In July 2020, he returned to his homeland to serve as Director of Strategic Alliances at Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, while also contributing as a Disaster Risk Reduction and Response Senior Specialist at Habitat for Humanity International.
Throughout his career, he played a critical role in disaster recovery efforts for major catastrophes, including the 2004 Aceh tsunami, the 2009 West Sumatra earthquake, the 2010 Mentawai tsunami, the Jakarta floods in 2012 and 2013, Typhoon Yolanda in the Philippines in 2013, the Bohol earthquake in the Philippines in 2023, the 2015 Nepal earthquake, Cyclone Winston in 2016, and the 2019–2020 flash floods in Bangladesh.
Hapsoro’s exemplary contributions were not limited to fieldwork but also extended to academia. In July 2024, he completed his postgraduate studies at University of Indonesia with a thesis titled “Post-Disaster Shelter Model Based on Family Resilience.” This work stands as a valuable legacy, reflecting his commitment to creating sustainable post-disaster housing solutions.
Sadly, the world lost this inspiring figure on July 9, 2024. However, his spirit lives on. Through the “Hapsoro Tribute Build,” friends, colleagues, and Habitat for Humanity volunteers continue his mission. The construction of three decent homes in Mauk Barat Village is part of a larger plan to build ten homes.
Today, Hapsoro’s legacy is not only seen in the sturdy buildings he helped construct but also in the humanitarian spirit he instilled in everyone who worked alongside him. May his passion continue to ignite others, inspiring them to walk the path of kindness and leave a lasting legacy for the world.
A group of eight volunteers from South Korea participated in constructing decent homes as part of the Global Village Program in Mauk Barat Village, Mauk District, Tangerang Regency, Banten (30/11).
Before starting the construction, the eight volunteers attended a safety briefing delivered by Ari Wibawa, Volunteer Coordinator of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. These volunteers deliberately traveled to Indonesia to assist families in need.
One of the volunteers captured a photo of Yuga, Construction Supervisor of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, introducing the homeowner and assigning tasks to the volunteers involved in the project. The volunteers were divided into three groups; the first group focused on transporting building materials, the second group assembled steel reinforcements, and the third group worked on concrete mixing.
Following the introduction, the three groups promptly began assembling steel frames for the sloof foundation, lintel beams, and ring beams of the house.
Meanwhile, a volunteer from the material transportation group worked on shoveling crushed stones and sand, which were to be mixed for concrete.
Once the crushed stones and sand were collected in a container, other volunteers transported the materials to the construction site for mixing.
Taking turns, the volunteers moved the materials to the designated location. Habitat Indonesia designed the house with an area of 28 square meters, including two bedrooms, one family room, and one bathroom, meeting the government’s standards for decent housing.
Under Yuga’s supervision and guidance, one volunteer mixed the materials—crushed stones, sand, and cement—following a specific ratio: one part cement, two parts crushed stones, and three parts sand.
The volunteers believed that each small effort they made would significantly impact the homeowner’s life.
Pak Janaka (66), the homeowner and recipient of the decent housing aid, never imagined that his home would be built by volunteers from Korea. For decades, he lived in a bamboo-walled house that had become deteriorated and riddled with holes.
Not only Pak Janaka and his wife but also their child and son-in-law shared the same small house, further diminishing its suitability as a living space. Every day, they had to contend with rats and snakes that frequently entered the house.
These volunteers participated in the three-day Global Village event from November 30 to December 2, 2024.
Habitat Indonesia hopes that the contributions of these volunteers will not only provide a sense of safety and comfort for Pak Janaka’s family but also help prepare his children and grandchildren to escape the cycle of poverty.
That morning, the sun warmly greeted the village of Marga Mulya, Mauk District, Tangerang Regency. The sound of saws, bricks being lifted, and the laughter of volunteers blended with the lively activity of the surrounding community. It turns out that Wednesday, November 20, 2024, was a special day. A total of 13 volunteers from the Asia Pacific Development Council (APDC) and the Indonesia Development Council (IDC) were present, not as ordinary guests, but as volunteers helping to build a decent home for Mr. Tinggal and Mrs. Urni.
The event, titled “Legacy Build 2024” with the slogan “Building Beyond Homes, Building Hope, Strengthening Communities,” saw the volunteers intentionally leaving the comfort of their daily routines for something more meaningful. That day, they worked side by side, installing the walls of the house, working directly under the scorching sun.
“It’s so enjoyable to be involved in this type of project again, because the last time I did something like this was a long time ago when I was still in graduate school in America. I’m really excited and proud to be here,” said Elizabeth Satow, Area Vice President Asia Pacific for Habitat for Humanity International.
On the other hand, Fernando Zobel De Ayala, APDC Member from Ayala Corporation, added with a warm smile, “I’m also happy to be here. This is my first time volunteering in Indonesia, and I think this is the best way to support families in Indonesia through Habitat’s programs.”
Aksi relawan Asia Pacific Development Council (APDC) dan Indonesia Development Council (IDC) dalam kegiatan volunteering “Legacy Build 2024” di Desa Marga Mulya, Mauk – Tangerang (20/11). Foto: HFHI/Astridinar Vania
For Harlan Stone, APDC Member and President and CEO of HTMX Industries, that day was an unforgettable experience. “Today is an extraordinary day for me. It’s my first time building a house in Asia during my career. Being here is the best gift I could ask for.”
Perhaps the most touching words came from John Ryan, APDC Member and Chairman of the Board at Barnes & Noble Education. He said, “Although we are tired, even very tired, I’m now inspired by the initiative we are doing together to bring happiness to families here.”
That day wasn’t just filled with hard work, but also laughter and gratitude. For Mr. Tinggal and Mrs. Urni’s family, the walls that were starting to go up marked the beginning of a dream soon to come true. The sturdy house that had once only existed in their dreams was now a reality before their eyes.
After finishing the house-building activities, the volunteers continued their day by visiting other flagship programs of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. Among these, they directly witnessed the impact of the community empowerment programs, access to sanitation and clean water, as well as the successful completion of various decent homes.
Habitat for Humanity Indonesia sincerely thanks all the volunteers for their contributions. Their support is proof that cross-country and cross-community collaboration can create real change.
Let’s continue this fight together. Every family deserves to have a decent and safe home. Visit and support us at www.habitatindonesia.org/donate.
Climate change is one of the greatest challenges facing humanity, and its impacts are being felt across the globe. However, despite housing being a necessity, this sector often receives insufficient attention on the global climate agenda.
Habitat for Humanity, an organization focused on access to adequate housing, seeks to elevate this important issue through policy recommendations made at COP29. Adequate housing is not just about shelter; it is also a key to building resilience against climate change, especially for the most vulnerable communities.
Housing in the Context of Climate Change
Across the world, over 1.1 billion people live in informal settlements highly vulnerable to climate change impacts, such as flooding, extreme heat, and rising sea levels. While they contribute little to global carbon emissions, they are among the most affected by climate disasters.
Habitat for Humanity emphasizes that adequate housing solutions must be an integral part of climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts. In its recommendations, Habitat for Humanity stresses the importance of integrating housing into Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
Integrating housing into climate strategies will allow countries to reduce carbon footprints, lower energy costs, and provide better protection for the most vulnerable communities. This is crucial to ensure that mitigation efforts do not only focus on the energy sector but also on the infrastructure that supports people’s daily lives.
Adaptation for the Most Vulnerable Communities
One of Habitat for Humanity’s main priorities is the urgent need for more funding for climate adaptation, particularly for the most vulnerable communities. These communities, especially those living in informal settlements, often lack access to adequate infrastructure and face greater climate risks. Habitat for Humanity calls on governments and international agencies to prioritize funding for adaptation actions that improve housing and infrastructure in areas most at risk from climate change.
This adaptation funding must be used to support the construction of climate-resilient housing that can withstand impacts like flooding, droughts, and extreme heat. Additionally, strengthening community capacity to cope with climate change in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way is also a key part of this recommendation. Solutions that involve using eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs can help build homes that are more resilient to climate change while reducing their environmental impact.
Ilustrasi permukiman informal yang dihuni masyarakat rentan. Foto: HFHI/Kevin Herbian
While climate change mitigation efforts are critical, Habitat for Humanity highlights the potential of housing to provide solutions that not only reduce carbon footprints but also address the global challenge of housing affordability. One of the main problems the world faces is the growing deficit of adequate and affordable housing, especially in many rapidly developing cities. Therefore, Habitat for Humanity stresses the importance of ensuring that climate mitigation efforts in the housing sector do not drive-up housing costs for low-income communities.
Affordable green housing solutions must be prioritized in global policies. Habitat for Humanity urges countries to invest in the renovation and retrofitting of existing housing to make them more climate-friendly, using low-carbon materials, and supporting energy-efficient designs. These efforts will help lower living costs and make homes more affordable for low-income families, particularly in rapidly growing cities.
The construction sector must also adopt circular economic principles, where building materials can be recycled and reused to reduce waste and carbon emissions. This approach needs to be integrated into global housing policies to support the transition to a more sustainable future.
Linking the Housing Sector with Global Climate Goals
Habitat for Humanity emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the housing, urban development, environmental, and financial sectors to create holistic solutions. By integrating these sectors, countries can create more sustainable and climate-resilient housing while meeting the urgent need for affordable housing.
Creating policies that strengthen community involvement, particularly for those living in informal settlements, is another critical step. Habitat for Humanity encourages ensuring that the voices of residents are part of the planning and decision-making processes regarding housing and climate adaptation, ensuring that policies truly meet the needs of those most affected.
Habitat for Humanity calls on the world to view housing not just as a basic need but as a critical solution for building resilience to climate change. In the face of increasing climate challenges, adequate, green, and affordable housing is key to creating a more just and sustainable future for all.
With the integration of housing into global climate policy, greater funding for adaptation, and a focus on affordable and climate-friendly housing, we can ensure that the most vulnerable populations can adapt and thrive in a changing world. Habitat for Humanity is committed to driving this change, and COP29 represents a pivotal moment to make it happen.
Aksi relawan Sinarmas World Academy membangun rumah layak huni di Kampung Cinamprak, Desa Mauk Barat, Tangerang (29/10). Foto: HFHI/Kevin Herbian
On that morning, Aradia greeted the day with a different kind of enthusiasm than usual. He, along with his classmates, left the comfort of their classroom and exchanged it for an open space filled with dust and construction equipment. They had purposely woken up early to join a volunteer activity to build decent homes in Kampung Cinamprak, Mauk Barat Village, Tangerang, on October 29.
While lifting the hoe, Aradia appeared slightly unsure of his movements. Seeing Aradia’s unsure movements, Risman, the Construction Supervisor from Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, immediately approached and offered guidance, demonstrating the proper way to hold and use a hoe.
Together with his group, Aradia dug foundation holes to a depth of 60 centimeters, while another group was busy tying the iron rebar for the sloof, which would serve as the foundation of the building structure.
Despite the grueling work, the volunteers’ spirits remained undeterred. “This is my first experience. It’s exhausting, but we know that what we’re doing will make a big difference for the families who will live in these homes,” said Aradia, taking a break between the volunteer activities.
Aksi relawan Sinarmas World Academy membangun rumah layak huni di Kampung Cinamprak, Desa Mauk Barat, Tangerang (29/10). Foto: HFHI/Kevin Herbian
To celebrate their 17th anniversary, Sinarmas World Academy (SWA) partnered with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia to invite the students, parents, and teachers from the school to share happiness in a special way.
Under the campaign titled “Build a Brighter Tomorrow,” 38 SWA volunteers took part in building three decent homes for families in Kampung Cinamprak. This activity marks the beginning of a target to build 10 decent homes, which are planned to be completed by the end of the year.
For the families of Kampung Cinamprak, owning a decent home has long been an elusive dream. Most of them work as casual farm laborers or fishermen, with income only sufficient to meet their daily needs. Their dream homes often remain distant aspirations, difficult to achieve. But that day, their dreams turned into reality.
Evelyn Indriani Kristiali, Head of Marketing and Operations at SWA, said, “We are very proud to be able to collaborate with Habitat on our anniversary. Through this experience, we hope all SWA students will grow with greater empathy and a passion for bringing positive change to the community around them.”
Support also came from the Head of Mauk Barat Village, Samudi, who appreciated this effort. “On behalf of the residents, I would like to thank SWA and Habitat for their help in our village. This is the first time decent homes are being built in Mauk Barat. I hope this initiative will inspire others to contribute to similar efforts,” he expressed.
Para relawan Sinarmas World Academy bertemu dengan salah satu pemilik rumah di Kampung Cinamprak, Desa Mauk Barat, Tangerang (29/10). Foto: HFHI/Kevin Herbian
Throughout the day, laughter and smiles from the SWA volunteers and the residents of Kampung Cinamprak filled every step of the construction process. The students, who were accustomed to classroom activities, now enjoyed a new experience working together with the local community. While working, they exchanged stories, learning more about the daily lives of the families there. This activity not only strengthened a sense of togetherness but also provided valuable lessons about the spirit of cooperation in a simple environment.
Habitat for Humanity Indonesia invites all youth communities, schools, and educational institutions to continue working towards a brighter future through the decent home program. These small moments worked on together create significant changes, fulfilling hopes, and paving the way for a better life for communities across Indonesia.
Siti Nurlaelah menyirami tanaman hias yang berada di perkarangan halaman rumahnya di Desa Marga Mulya, Mauk – Tangerang. Foto: HFHI/Kevin Herbian
That afternoon, Siti Nurlaelah (44) was busy watering ornamental plants in the yard of her home in Marga Mulya Village, Mauk Subdistrict, Tangerang Regency, Banten.
Unlike a month ago, her yard is now adorned with blooming flowers, as if celebrating the arrival of her new home. A sturdy, comfortable house with a roof that wouldn’t leak during a storm—far removed from the sorrow she had endured before.
For years, Siti and her family struggled in a home they painstakingly built from their savings. However, the structure was far from stable. One night, during a heavy rainstorm, the floor caved in, causing the walls of their living room to collapse. “Luckily, my children weren’t hurt—just the furniture was damaged,” Siti recalled.
The dream of having a decent home felt out of reach, as Siti only worked as a day laborer, earning 50,000 rupiahs on days she could find work. Her husband, Ahmad Yani (39), a security guard, earned no more than 3 million rupiahs per month.
“I often had to borrow from the local shop just to buy rice because my husband’s paycheck went straight to patching leaks and mending cracks,” said Siti.
Kondisi rumah tak layak huni milik Siti Nurlaelah saat sebelum direnovasi oleh Habitat for Humanity Indonesia di Desa Marga Mulya, Mauk – Tangerang. Foto: HFHI/Rifky Milano
Yet, even amid these hardships, Siti’s prayers were answered. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, along with generous donors, came bearing a ray of hope. A solid house now stands where their old home once brought despair—built with love and support from caring volunteers.
Tears streamed down Siti’s face as her new home was completed. “I never imagined we’d have a house like this,” she said. During the construction process, she marveled at the quality of the building materials delivered things she had only dreamed of before.
On the first night in their new home, Siti could not sleep, overwhelmed by gratitude. Her youngest son hugged her tightly, saying, “Mom, our house is so beautiful—it’s like a palace.”
Life for Siti and her family has transformed. The money once spent on constant repairs can now go into savings, and she no longer must borrow just to buy necessities.
In the living room, Siti and Ahmad are planning to open a small shop, hopeful that their future will flourish, much like the thriving plants in their new home. For Siti, this house is more than just a shelter. It is a living dream—a place where hope and happiness for her family blossom.
Siti Nurlaelah bermain bersama anaknya di dalam rumah yang telah layak huni di Desa Marga Mulya, Mauk – Tangerang. Foto: HFHI/Kevin Herbian
You can be a part of creating this kind of transformation for families like Siti Nurlaelah’s. Through your support, more homes can be built, providing safe and decent housing for families in need.
Bogor, November 2, 2024 – Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, in partnership with PT Prudential Life Assurance (Prudential Indonesia) and PT Prudential Sharia Life Assurance (Prudential Syariah), has resumed the Desa Maju Prudential Program (DMP) in Gunung Putri Village, Bogor, West Java.
The inauguration of the third phase of the DMP program was marked by the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of new decent homes, attended by Prudential’s Chief Customer and Marketing Officer, Karin Zulkarnaen, alongside Chief Digital and Technology Officer, Dicky Johan, Gunung Putri Subdistrict Head Kurnia Indra, Gunung Putri Village Head Daman Huri, and Habitat for Humanity Indonesia’s Program Director, Arwin Soelaksono, on November 2, 2024.
The launch of this phase coincides with its 29th anniversary, highlighting the company’s long-term commitment to creating positive social impact. According to Karin Zulkarnaen, this third phase of the DMP aims to address essential community needs, with a primary focus on creating inclusive, safe, and sustainable settlements.
With Habitat Indonesia’s support, the DMP program will run officially over the next two years, from November 2, 2024, through June 2026, and is targeted to benefit over 20,000 residents. The scope of this third phase includes:
The construction of 27 new decent homes with plants for each house,
The construction of 21 new household toilets,
Renovation of 4 educational facilities (classrooms, libraries, and toilets),
Provision of machines to convert waste into plastic pellets, as well as waste management training for 210 participants and training for 75 waste management coordinators,
Basic construction training and healthy home training, as well as training on clean and healthy living behaviors for 210 participants,
Disaster mitigation training for the community.
Karin Zulkarnaen expressed optimism about the impact of the DMP program, stating, “This series of activities is expected to improve the quality of life for local communities in the long term, helping them to live healthier, more prosperous, and empowered lives.”
Overall, the third phase of DMP focuses on five development priorities: access to decent housing, educational facilities, waste bank management and the adoption of an environmentally friendly lifestyle, improving understanding of clean living, and raising community awareness of disaster mitigation.
Peresmian program Desa Maju Prudential tahap ketiga di Desa Gunung Putri, Bogor, Jawa Barat (2/11). Foto: HFHI/Kevin Herbian
Previously, through Habitat Indonesia and Prudential’s partnership, the DMP’s second phase in Gunung Putri Village successfully reached more than 5,100 residents with various projects, including building 15 new decent homes, renovating 10 homes with a focus on water, sanitation, and hygiene, constructing 38 household toilets, establishing 2 art schools, promoting hygienic lifestyle training for 412 participants, as well as disaster preparedness training and the development of healthy housing.
Additionally, as part of its efforts to empower the community toward financial resilience, Habitat Indonesia and Prudential renovated 10 MSME units, provided entrepreneurship training to 50 MSME participants, vocational skills for youth, and financial literacy education for the Gunung Putri Village community. Various health programs were also conducted, including free health checks such as pap smears and the provision of medical equipment for local Posyandu (integrated health services posts).
Arwin Soelaksono, Program Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, expressed his gratitude for Prudential’s continued partnership in the third phase of the DMP. He stated that collaboration opens opportunities to support and empower the community, providing access to decent housing, education, and a healthier, safer, and more comfortable environment. Together with Prudential and PRUVolunteers, he is optimistic that this program will deliver sustainable positive impacts for the residents of Gunung Putri Village and beyond until 2026.
Since beginning its partnership with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia in 2020, Prudential has empowered more than 19,000 residents across various villages. In Tanjung Anom Village, Mauk, Tangerang Regency, for example, the program successfully built 63 new homes and toilets, established 2 clean water sources along with a 272-meter drainage system, installed 25 portable handwashing facilities, conducted WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) training, Basic Construction and Healthy Housing training, and distributed hygiene kits for 617 families, as well as food vouchers for 562 families.
The commencement of the third phase of the DMP program was further marked by the enthusiasm of over 200 PRUVolunteers who helped build decent homes, household toilets, manage waste, and plant biopores. In addition, over 300 participants attended a UMKM bazaar and health exercise activities.
Peresmian program Desa Maju Prudential tahap ketiga di Desa Gunung Putri, Bogor, Jawa Barat (2/11). Foto: HFHI/Kevin Herbian
Habitat for Humanity Indonesia invites all Habitat supporters to join and pray for the smooth implementation of this program, so that each step will provide sustainable benefits and strengthen the quality of life for residents in the future.
Pemotongan pita peresmian Think Big Space (TBS) di SMKN 1 Karawang (26/10). Foto: HFHI/Budi Aryanto
Karawang, October 24, 2024 – Amazon Web Services (AWS), in partnership with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, inaugurates Think Big Space (TBS) at SMK Negeri 1 Karawang.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was conducted by the Acting Governor of West Java, Mr. Bey Machmudin, Acting Regent of Karawang, Mr. Teppy Wawan Dharmawan, Acting Head of the West Java Provincial Education Office, Mr. Bambang Tirtoyuliono, AWS Country Manager for Data Center Indonesia, Mr. Winu Adiarto, and Chief Financial Officer Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, Mr. Christian Khorigin on Thursday, October 26, 2024.
With Habitat for Humanity Indonesia as NGO partner, AWS created a digital learning space equipped with a range of modern facilities, including STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) devices, 18 computers with free access to AWS Skill Builder as an online learning hub, Amazon Echo devices, a podcast studio, a 3D printer, and a Virtual Reality set.
AWS Think Big Space are designed to create innovative learning environments that go beyond traditional classrooms, empowering students to develop STEAM skills and explore innovation through hands-on, real-world problem-solving experiences
In his remarks, Mr. Winu Adiarto noted that TBS at SMKN 1 Karawang is the first of its kind in Indonesia and Southeast Asia, with the goal of broadening students’ knowledge in technology while equipping them with relevant digital skills. “This TBS is a dedicated space for students, educators, and the community to explore ideas in STEAM through technical education and interactive cloud computing training,” said Mr. Winu Adiarto.
The Think Big Space at SMKN 1 Karawang will host various STEAM training sessions, including programming, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and automation, aimed at students in grades 10 through 12. Additionally, AWS will use this space as a training center for programs such as Skilled in the Cloud, which offers cloud training, digital workshops, and coding classes.
Kunjungan Pj Gubernur Jawa Barat, Bey Machmudin, melihat fasilitas Think Big Space (TBS) di SMKN 1 Karawang (26/10). Foto: Humas Pemprov Jabar
The Acting Governor of West Java, Mr. Bey Machmudin, praised the initiative as a solution to the challenge of aligning education with industry needs. “We believe in the power of education and technology to unlock human potential. With the TBS, we are better prepared to empower students in West Java and across Indonesia for a digital future,” he said.
Mr. Winu Adiarto added that TBS would expand beyond schools into public facilities, based on community needs. “This Think Big Space aims to build technical capabilities in our youth, especially considering that 70 percent of Indonesia’s population is between 14 and 47 years old. This is a huge potential that must be positively harnessed,” he said.
Through this initiative, AWS and Habitat for Humanity Indonesia hope that vocational schools in West Java will continue to innovate, produce graduates ready to compete in the global market, and serve as catalysts for industrial and economic progress in Indonesia.
Habitat for Humanity Indonesia mobilized over 700 volunteers to build 71 new homes for low-income families and plant more than 450 trees in Tangerang, Gresik, and Batam in a community and environment initiative.
Jakarta, October 26, 2024 – To celebrate Youth Pledge Day, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia has once again organized 28UILD 2024, an impactful volunteer event engaging young Indonesians in building decent housing for families in need.
This year, more than 700 volunteers simultaneously worked in three cities—Tangerang, Gresik, and Batam on October 26, 2024—dedicated to building and painting safe homes for those in need. For the first time, the volunteers also participated in tree planting to promote environmental sustainability. Across these cities, a total of 71 new homes were built, and over 450 trees were planted.
Since its start in 2012, 28UILD has been held 11 times, engaging over 5,700 volunteers from various cities in Indonesia. This year’s event was further enriched by the support of inspiring public figures, such as Daniel Mananta, Joanna Alexandra, Nadia Tjoa, Han Chandra, Nathan Khubani, and Kurnia Hidayat, who joined in building homes and voicing the importance of environmental action.
“We aim to demonstrate the significant role youth play in building socially and environmentally sustainable Indonesia, both socially and environmentally,” said Handoko Ngadiman, National Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. “Through 28UILD, we create positive change together—not only by building homes but also by protecting our environment. The young generation is a vital pillar in shaping a better future.”
Daniel Mananta, a well-known Indonesian actor and host who has supported this movement for years, shared his experience: “I’m very grateful to be invited back every year to join Habitat in the 28UILD event. Every year, I meet new families whose homes we’re able to transform for them. I am deeply motivated to see the significant impact we can make on the lives of these families. From homes that were previously uninhabitable, now they have a safer, healthier place to live.”
Beyond building homes, Daniel emphasized that this event is a collective effort to foster renewed hope. “With safer homes, these children can dream bigger than their parents may have imagined.”
In recent years, more young Indonesians are also getting involved in social initiatives. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia offers a platform for them through the Habitat Young Star program—a space where youth can create and innovate projects that bring positive change to their communities. This year, two young participants, Denzel Setiawan and Kirana Ratomo, brought their ideas to life by building a playground for local children.
Sharing her inspiration, Kirana Ratomo used repurposed tires to build play structures and painted vibrant murals on the playground walls. “I wanted to create a safe, fun space for kids and show that with a bit of creativity, waste materials can become something useful and beautiful,” said Kirana.
Denzel Setiawan also contributed by transforming seashell waste from Mauk, Tangerang Regency, into mortar for building material.This mortar was used in a pilot project to renovate a badminton court in Marga Mulya, creating a new space for local residents. “I’m thrilled to be part of 28UILD by turning seashell waste into something valuable—mortar for building material. It shows that what’s seen as trash can actually be part of a solution,” said Denzel.
Habitat for Humanity Indonesia hopes 28UILD will continue to inspire young Indonesians to unite in service and solidarity. Looking ahead, they hope to see even more youth join in social initiatives like this. With a spirit of cooperation and direct action, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia believes the young generation can help build a more independent, prosperous, and sustainable Indonesia.
Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany, has initiated Work Competency Certification (SKK) and Occupational Health and Safety (K3) training for 600 construction workers in Banten Province.
Sejumlah peserta pelatihan SKK & K3 yang diselenggarakan Habitat for Humanity Indonesia bersama Pemerintah Jerman menerima sertifikat komptensi kerja di Mauk, Kabupaten Tangerang (11/7). Foto: HFHI/Kevin Herbian
For over 30 years working as a construction worker, Sugiyono, a man from Ketapang Village, Mauk District, Tangerang Regency, never imagined he would obtain an official certificate recognizing his skills.
His hands, which had mostly been used to lay bricks and mix cement, now hold a certificate— a testament to his skills.
“Having worked as a construction worker for over 30 years, this is the first time I’ve had a certificate that officially recognizes my skills,” Sugiyono said when met after participating in the Wall Installation Competency Unit training.
Meanwhile, Muflikan, a worker from Marga Mulya Village who also participated in the training, expressed similar joy.
“Finally, I have official certification. I’ve been waiting for this moment after twenty-five years of working in construction. It’s different now—it becomes quite hard for me to find work. Every time I apply to foremen, contractors, or even directly to homeowners, they always ask if I have a certificate or not,” he said.
This situation is not only felt by Sugiyono and Muflikan. In the rapidly developing construction industry, the demand for work competency certification is increasingly high. Of the 8.3 million construction workers in Indonesia, only 7.4% (or around 616,000) have certificates (BPS, 2018). This number is far from sufficient to meet the industry standards that increasingly require formal credentials amid tight competition.
600 Certified Construction Workers
Seeing this gap, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, together with the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany, initiated a training program for Work Competency Certification (SKK) and Occupational Health and Safety (K3).
Kegiatan Pelatihan SKK & K3 untuk 600 tenaga konstruksi yang diselenggarakan Habitat for Humanity Indonesia dan Pemerintah Jerman di Kosambi, Kabupaten Tangerang (3/10). Foto: HFHI/Radhitya Yoga
This training aims to help construction workers like Sugiyono and Muflikan obtain nationally recognized official certificates. The training was held at the Cipondoh Labor Training Center in Tangerang City and the Kosambi Labor Training Center in Tangerang Regency, targeting over 600 construction workers.
The program is divided into three training phases. The first phase included 210 workers, held from September 20-30, 2023, followed by 240 workers in the second phase scheduled for March 20-30, 2024, and 150 workers in the third phase that just took place from October 3-12, 2024.
During the 10-day training, participants were equipped with practical and technical knowledge according to various competency units. Starting from the Pipe Competency Unit, Lightweight Steel Roof, Paint, Tile Installation, Ceramic, Marble, Terrazzo, to Wall Installation, all training was adjusted to the Indonesian National Work Competency Standards (SKKNI) for the Construction Sector.
Sejumlah peserta mengikuti kelas unit kompetensi pasang dinding dalam Pelatihan SKK & K3 yang diselenggarakan Habitat for Humanity Indonesia dan Pemerintah Jerman di Kosambi, Kabupaten Tangerang (4/10). Foto: HFHI/Radhitya Yoga
For Abdul Aziz, a worker participating in the Paint Competency Unit, this experience brings a breath of fresh air. “I learned a lot of new knowledge. I was taught better and more efficient practices. Not only that, but in the end, I could obtain a certificate that I can present when applying for jobs later,” Abdul said.
During the training, participants not only received technical training but were also assessed by assessors from the National Professional Certification Agency (BNSP) on the last day. These assessors evaluated the eligibility of participants for obtaining certificates based on the applicable standards.
One assessor, Bambang, stated that this program significantly impacts workers. “Certification is very important because workers also need to have official proof that recognizes their skills. From my observations, participants appeared more confident after participating in this program,” Bambang said.
Sejumlah peserta mengikuti kelas unit kompetensi pasang ubin, keramik, marmer & teraso dalam Pelatihan SKK & K3 yang diselenggarakan Habitat for Humanity Indonesia dan Pemerintah Jerman di Kosambi, Kabupaten Tangerang (4/10). Foto: HFHI/Budi Aryanto
Tirta Mustika Ratih, Head of the Construction Service Guidance Team for Settlement Areas at the Housing, Settlements, and Land Office of Tangerang City, also emphasized the importance of this certificate. “This certificate is a mandate of the law. The government has an obligation to ensure that all construction workers have certificates. This certificate gives them permission to work and is valid for the next five years,” Tirta explained.
With certificates in hand, many participants feel more confident facing challenges in the workforce. Ali Anwar, a worker in the Lightweight Steel Roof Competency Unit, admitted that this certification gives him new hope. “Now I feel more confident and ready to find better work. This certificate is a significant asset to convince potential employers,” Ali said.
Salah satu peserta berfoto bersama sertifikat miliknya setelah mengikut Pelatihan SKK & K3 yang diselenggarakan Habitat for Humanity Indonesia dan Pemerintah Jerman di Mauk, Kabupaten Tangerang (11/7). Foto: HFHI/Kevin Herbian
Multilateral Support
This program certainly benefits from the support of several parties, such as PT Mowilex Indonesia, PT Wavin Indonesia, PT Tata Metal Lestari, PT Tatalogam Lestari, PT Mortar Utama (Saint-Gobain), and PT Etex Building Performance Indonesia. Their support in the form of financial aid, materials, and trainers enabled the smooth execution of this program.
The collaboration between Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, the German government, Habitat for Humanity Germany and these companies is not just an effort to enhance workforce capacity but also a part of a shared commitment to improve the quality of life for communities.
Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, which has long been known for its program to build decent housing, is now expanding its impact by helping construction workers gain the recognition they deserve.
Through this program, Sugiyono, Muflikan, and hundreds of other workers now have better opportunities to compete in the job market, secure more decent employment, and improve their families’ welfare. “This is not just about obtaining a certificate; it’s about a brighter future for all of us,” concluded Sugiyono.
